TOP 10 MALAYALAM MOVIES THAT MADE A LASTING IMPRESSION
The Malayalam film industry, also known as Mollywood, has been producing some of the most compelling and thought-provoking movies in the Indian film industry. Known for its realistic portrayals of life, Mollywood has been making waves with its films for several years now. The industry has produced several iconic films over the years that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of movie lovers. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the top 10 Malayalam movies that have made a lasting impression on the audience. These movies have been selected based on their critical acclaim, box office success, and the impact they have made on society. So without further ado, let's take a look at these cinematic gems.
1. Drishyam (2013)
Drishyam is a thriller film directed by Jeethu Joseph that tells the story of a common man who uses his intelligence and wits to protect his family from a crime they committed accidentally. The film stars Mohanlal, one of the most iconic actors in the Malayalam film industry. Drishyam was a massive commercial success and won several awards for its engaging storyline and gripping performances.
2. Bangalore Days (2014)
Bangalore Days is a coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama directed by Anjali Menon. The film revolves around the lives of three cousins who move to Bangalore to pursue their dreams. The movie portrays their struggles, relationships, and growth as individuals. The film stars Dulquer Salmaan, Nivin Pauly, and Nazriya Nazim in the lead roles, along with other notable actors. Bangalore Days was a commercial and critical success and is considered one of the best Malayalam movies of all time. The movie's engaging storyline, realistic portrayal of relationships, and memorable soundtrack contributed to its widespread popularity.
3. Ustad Hotel (2012)
Ustad Hotel is a drama film directed by Anwar Rasheed. The movie tells the story of a young man who rebels against his father's wishes and pursues his dream of becoming a chef. The film stars Dulquer Salmaan in the lead role and was praised for its engaging storyline, realistic portrayal of family relationships, and brilliant performances. Ustad Hotel won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The movie's themes of self-discovery, family values, and the pursuit of one's dreams resonated with audiences and made it one of the most successful Malayalam films of all time.
4. Premam (2015)
Premam is a romantic comedy-drama film directed by Alphonse Puthren. The movie tells the story of a man's journey through love and heartbreak in three different phases of his life. The film stars Nivin Pauly in the lead role and was praised for its engaging storyline, memorable soundtrack, and exceptional performances. Upon its release, Premam became a cultural phenomenon, with audiences and critics alike praising its fresh take on the romantic comedy genre.
5. Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum (2017)
Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum is a drama film directed by Dileesh Pothan. The movie tells the story of a couple whose wedding goes awry when the groom's gold chain gets stolen. The film stars Fahadh Faasil and Suraj Venjaramoodu in the lead roles and was praised for its realistic portrayal of rural life in Kerala. Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam. The movie's themes of crime, poverty and the struggles of everyday life in rural India resonated with audiences and made it one of the most acclaimed Malayalam films of all time.
6. Kumbalangi Nights (2019)
Kumbalangi Nights is a drama film directed by Madhu C. Narayanan. The movie tells the story of four brothers and their relationships with each other and the people around them in a fishing village in Kerala. The film stars Fahadh Faasil, Shane Nigam, Soubin Shahir, and Sreenath Bhasi in the lead roles and was praised for its realistic portrayal of life in a coastal village. Kumbalangi Nights won several awards, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Popular Film. The movie's themes of family, brotherhood, and redemption made it a critical and commercial success.
7. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016)
Maheshinte Prathikaaram is a comedy-drama film directed by Dileesh Pothan that tells the story of a photographer who seeks revenge against a man who insults him in public. The film stars Fahadh Faasil in the lead role and was praised for its performances and realistic portrayal of small-town life in Kerala. Maheshinte Prathikaaram won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam.
8. Pathemari (2015)
Pathemari is a drama film directed by Salim Ahmed. The movie tells the story of a man's struggle for survival and the sacrifices he makes to provide a better life for his family as a migrant worker in the Gulf. The film stars Mammootty in the lead role and was praised for its realistic portrayal of the lives of migrant workers. Pathemari won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam. The movie's themes of family, perseverance, and the struggles of the working class resonated with audiences and made it one of the most acclaimed Malayalam films of all time.
9. Charlie (2015)
Charlie is a romantic drama film directed by Martin Prakkat. The movie tells the story of a young woman who goes on a journey to find a mysterious man named Charlie. The film stars Dulquer Salmaan and Parvathy in the lead roles and was praised for its captivating storyline, beautiful visuals, and outstanding performances. Charlie won several awards, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Popular Film. The movie's themes of love, adventure, and self-discovery resonated with audiences and made it a commercial and critical success. The soundtrack and background score by Gopi Sundar also received widespread acclaim.
10. Amen (2013)
Amen is a romantic musical-comedy film directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery. The movie tells the story of a musician who falls in love with a girl from a conservative family and the challenges he faces to win her heart. The film stars Fahadh Faasil and Swathi Reddy in the lead roles and was praised for its innovative storytelling, catchy music, and brilliant performances. Amen won several awards, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Popular Film. The movie's themes of love, music, and faith resonated with audiences and made it a cult classic.