Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies of All Time – Best Malayalam Cinemas

Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies of All Time - Best Malayalam Cinemas

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Malayalam cinema, often known as Keralan cinema, is an Indian film industry producing films in Malayalam. It’s headquartered in Kerala, India. The Malayalam film industry is renowned for its cinematography and story-driven scripts.

Every year, a variety of films are produced, with some enduring in the minds of audiences and others fading into history. Each individual has his or her own opinion regarding the best Malayalam film of all time. As you read this post, you will discover the top films based on their rating, genre, and box-office performance. Here is a list of the 50 greatest Malayalam films of all time.

1. Sandesham (1991)

  • Director: Sathyan Anthikad
  • Stars: Sreenivasan, Jayaram, Thilakan, Maathu
  • Writter: Sreenivasan
  • Producer: S. S. T. Subrahmaniam
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 9.0
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama
Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies of all time

Sandesam is a 1991 Indian Malayalam-language black comedy political satire film directed by Sathyan Anthikad and written by Sreenivasan. The film stars Thilakan, Sreenivasan, Jayaram, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Siddique, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, and Maathu. The video focuses on political action in Kerala and is extremely critical of the state’s political parties.

Review of Sandesham (1991)

Sreenivasan authored a wildly popular political satire. The film is equally harsh in its criticism of Kerala’s two major political parties. As always, veteran actor Thilakan is outstanding as the Station Master, who retires and returns home to discover that his sons Prabhakaran (Sreenivasan) and Prakashan (Jayaram) are jobless petty politicians. This is the major premise of the film: their political struggle begins to influence all aspects of family life.

The film exposes the double-speak and hypocrisy of the Communists and the corruption and sycophancy of the Congress party with skill and humour. Throughout the entirety of the film, no character or circumstance seemed out of place. Every character had a message for the public, whether it was Siddique, the virtuous agriculture officer, Mala Aravindan, the cowardly police inspector, Shankaradi, the Marxist ideologue, or Bobby Kottarakara, the lowly party worker. Without a doubt, “Sandesham” is among the greatest Malayalam films of all time, and its dialogues, some of which have become part of Keralan folklore, are its most enduring legacy. Sathyan Anthikad and Sreenivasan deserve credit for this

2. Kireedam (1989)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Thilakan, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Parvathi
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Dinesh Panicker
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.9
  • Genre: Action, Drama

Kireedam is a 1989 Indian film directed by Sibi Malayil and written by A. K. Lohithadas. Mohanlal, Thilakan, and Parvathy Jayaram star in the movie, along with Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Mohan Raj, Murali, Sreenath, Kundara Johny, Cochin Haneefa, Jagathy Sreekumar, Philomina, Usha, Jagadish, Maniyanpilla Raju, Mamukkoya, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, and Johnson composed the soundtrack for the movie.

Review of Kireedam (1989)

Despite numerous remakes, this classic human transformation film noir from Malayalam cinema has never been surpassed. People assume that if a film is being remade, it must be a wonderful film since it is being remade, but do we see the proportions drawn by the original, or how much credit goes to the original source? Kireedam has been remade six times in India, but none of the remakes have matched or even come close to the original.

With this Action picture, Malayalam cinema of the 1980s broke the canon of human change and film noir. All the positivity at once strives too much but turns negative, which is so heartbreaking to witness because it stems from the life of an ordinary guy rather than an academic mind. The film is about a young man who aspires to follow his father’s goal by joining the police force, but his life takes a U-turn when he meets a local hero who saves his beloved father.

Mohanlal’s performance in the lead part is flawless in every way, from action to emotions. We were unable to identify a single subpar performance among the supporting cast. From Cinematography to Editing to Music, Kireedam never loses the substance of its narrative, and the writer’s superb writing and captivating screenplay convince everyone. Sibi Malayil did an excellent job in the director’s chair and carefully considered every detail while executing the on-screen moments.

From cinematic nuances to commonplace beliefs, he molded everything into a solid form and fashioned Kireedam into the ideal 1980s Action Drama with a strong Noir element. In addition to action, vengeance, emotions, and family values, Kireedam is an influential picture for popular action movies (many films have copied many of its elements, as evidenced by my own observations). Kireedam is a Classic; nothing else to say!

3. Manichithrathazhu (1993)

  • Director: Fazil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Shobana, Suresh Gopi, Vinaya Prasad
  • Writter: Madhu Muttam
  • Producer: Swargachitra Appachan
  • Music: M. G. Radhakrishnan (songs), Johnson (score)
  • Rating: 8.8
  • Genre: Comedy, Horror, Mystery
Manichithrathazhu (1993) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Manichitrathazhu is a 1993 Indian Malayalam film directed by Fazil, written by Madhu Muttam, and produced by Swargachitra Appachan. Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, and Shobana star in the film, along with Nedumudi Venu, Innocent, Vinaya Prasad, K. P. A. C. Lalitha, Sridhar, K. B. Ganesh Kumar, Sudheesh, and Thilakan. The novel was inspired by a catastrophe that occurred inside the Nairtharavad family, a prominent Travancore family, in the nineteenth century.

Review of Manichithrathazhu (1993)

After a lengthy absence, Suresh Gopi and his wife Shobana come to their hometown to see his uncle Nedubudi Venu. They opt to reside in their family’s house, which is uninhabited due to fears that it is haunted by an old dancer named Nagavalli. Years ago, the king assassinated Nagavalli for having an affair with another court singer.

Shobana is so captivated by the palace that she unlocks the room where formerly housed Nagavalli on purpose. Soon, a series of paranormal occurrences commence, and the family begins to feel terror. Mohanlal portrays Dr. Sunny, who comes to the rescue of his friend Suresh Gopi and discovers there is more to the mystery than he originally thought. The film features a hilarious comic score by the late Kuthiravattam Pappu, Innocent, Ganesh, and Sudhesh.

Mohanlal leaves a lasting impression. However, Shobana deserves all the credit for her excellent acting. This may be the best of Fazil’s films and the best suspense thriller in Malayalam film history. This is the perfect film for thrill-seeking psychopaths. Go obtain a DVD copy of this timeless classic.

4. Nadodikattu (1987)

  • Director: Sathyan Anthikad
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Shobana, Suresh Gopi, Vinaya Prasad, Sreenivasan
  • Writter: Siddique-Lal(story), Sreenivasan(Screenplay)
  • Producer: Century Kochumon, Mohanlal, I. V. Sasi, Mammootty
  • Music: Shyam
  • Rating: 8.8
  • Genre: Comedy

The 1987 Indian Malayalam-language satire comedy film Nadodikkattu was directed by Sathyan Anthikad and written by Sreenivasan based on a narrative by the team of Siddique and Lal. Mohanlal and Sreenivasan play the key parts, with Shobhana, Thilakan, Innocent, Mamukkoya, and Captain Raju forming the ensemble supporting cast. The plot centers on two impoverished young men, Ramdas and Vijayan, who, unable to find work in Kerala, decide to travel to Dubai in order to earn their fortunes but are duped and end up in Chennai. The film utilized pertinent societal factors impacting Kerala in the 1980s, including rampant unemployment and poverty.

Critics believe the film exemplifies popular Malayalam cinema at its most satirical and established Mohanlal and Sreenivasan as one of its most memorable and bankable onscreen pairings. The narrative, script, and characters have reached the rank of classics. Casino Productions, a production firm owned by Century Kochumon, Mohanlal, I. V. Sasi, and Mammootty, produced the film.

Review of Nadodikattu (1987)

One of the best Malayalam films ever! Its about how Vijayan and Dasan played by Mohanlal and Sreenivasan survive all odds to earn a decent living. It has some of the most remembered scenes in Mal movies like the scene with Gafoor. You will never get tired of this “for the masses film” where disasters that happen to middle class average people are portrayed with humor and how they finally overcome all odds. Mohanlal and Sreenivasan are outrageous laugh riot where Srinivasan has a inferiority complex about his dark, short PDC. Mohanlal hides his complex in a seemingly superiority complex of being tall, handsome and BCOM-first class. Excellent!

5. Thaniyavartanam (1987)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mammootty, Thilakan, Mukesh, Kaviyoor Ponnamma
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Nandakumar
  • Music: Johnson(Score), M G Radhakrishnan(Song)
  • Rating: 8.8
  • Genre: Drama

Thaniyavarthanam is a 1987 Malayalam drama film directed by Sibi Malayil and written by A. K. Lohithadas. It features Mammootty as the instructor Balagopalan, Thilakan as the patrilineal family’s uncle, Mukesh as Gopinathan, and Kaviyoor Ponnamma. Upon its initial release, it became a cult classic. Thilakan earned the Second Best Actor award at the Kerala State Film Awards.

Upon its release, it got praise from critics. The video explores a wide range of subjects, including superstition and orthodoxy in rural Kerala, attitudes toward mental illness, generational differences in attitudes, and the downfall of once-proud Nair “joint families.” Thilakan was the one who suggested Mammootty for the starring part (Balagopalan). Even now, the screenplay by Lohithadas stands out because to its scientific precision and realism.

Review of Thaniyavartanam (1987)

An innovative human drama that toes the thin line between superstitious insanity and literate sanity. A MASTERPIECE! Has anyone here watched the 1936 Frank Capra classic Mr. Deeds Goes to Town? A sane, kind-hearted man is conspired to be declared insane by so-called sane people, and he then delivers a lesson about sanity and insanity in the courtroom. Thaniyavarthanam has nothing to do with that film; that was a romantic comedy with a joyful ending, whereas this is a very serious drama with a haunting conclusion.

The film has significantly altered the perception of regional cinema by introducing new motivations, especially for tiny enterprises. The film explores the narrow border between sanity and insanity, which is locked in the previous generation’s superstitions, rituals, and beliefs. A village-dwelling schoolteacher is a member of a family with a history of psychotic males, and despite his normality, he is soon taken advantage of as society misinterprets his acts. This text is the work of a brilliant mind. A. K. Lohithadas has undoubtedly deviated from conventional thought to produce mind-boggling material.

If not for the educated character, the film’s central concept would have failed. When we first realise that man is insane, we don’t care much because his character was never shown as sane, but when we realize that the most sane person in the entire film is stuck, it hurts so much. It appears that the entire cast was born to act in this picture due to the extraordinary casting. Mammootty, Thilakan, Mukesh, Saritha, Parvathy, and the rest of the cast vividly portrayed their respective characters through their eyes, body language, and facial expressions. Sibi Malayil is a virtuoso in the director’s chair, especially when he creates morally conflicted human dramas. Thaniyavarthanam is just faultless. MUST WATCH!

6. Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha aka A Northern Story of Valor (1989)

  • Director: Hariharan
  • Stars: Mammootty, Madhavi, Devan, Suresh Gopi, Balan K. Nair, Captain Raju
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: P. V. Gangadharan
  • Music: Bombay Ravi
  • Rating: 8.7
  • Genre: Drama, History
Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha aka A Northern Story of Valor (1989) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha is a 1989 Indian Malayalam-language epic historical drama film directed by Hariharan and starring Mammootty, Suresh Gopi, Balan K. Nair, Captain Raju, and Madhavi. The film received eight Kerala State Film Awards in addition to four National Film Awards in 1989 for Best Actor (Mammootty), Best Screenplay (M. T. Vasudevan Nair), Best Production Design (P. Krishnamoorthy), and Best Costume Design (P. Krishnamoorthy).

Based on the plotline of Vadakkan Pattukal, a mediaeval song from North Malabar, this film is widely recognized as a Malayalam cinema masterpiece. The novel reinterprets the life of the famous Chandu Chekavar and portrays him as an unfortunate and misunderstood but ultimately honourable man, as opposed to the betraying persona that gave him the folkloric moniker Chathiyan Chandu (literally “Chandu the Betrayer”).

Review of Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha aka A Northern Story of Valor (1989)

The cult classic epic saga of a villain from Kerala folklore who is transformed into a contemporary hero! This film, made in 1989 with a budget of 3 Crore Rupees (the most expensive Malayalam film of the time), was nothing short of a Magnum Opus, with a powerful script by the legendary M.T. Vasudevan Nair, expert direction by Hariharan, and an Award-Winning National performance by Mammootty as Chathiyan Chandhu.

7. Devasuram (1993)

  • Director: I. V. Sasi
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Napolean, Revathi, Innocent
  • Writter: Ranjith
  • Producer: V. B. K. Menon
  • Music: M. G. Radhakrishnan(Songs), S. P. Venkatesh(Score)
  • Rating: 8.7
  • Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Devasuram (1993) Top 5a0 Best Malayalam Movies

Devaasuram is a 1993 Indian film directed by I. V. Sasi and written by Ranjith. Mohanlal, Revathi, and Napoleon lead the cast, while Innocent, V. K. Sreeraman, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Augustine play supporting parts. M. G. Radhakrishnan composed the songs for the film, while S. P. Venkatesh composed the background soundtrack. The film was Mohanlal’s 200th.

The film highlights the rivalry between Mangalassery Neelakandan (Mohanlal) and Mundakkal Shekaran, two spoilt heirs of feudal families (Napoleon). Ranjith invented the character Neelakandan based on a real person named Mullasserry Rajagopal (who died 2002). Filming took place at Varikkasseri Mana in Ottappalam.

Devaasuram was both critically and commercially acclaimed. It is considered a classic, and Mohanlal’s performance as Mangalassery Neelakandan is regarded as one of his greatest. It was followed by Ravanaprabhu (2001), marking writer Ranjith’s directorial debut. In the same year as Kunti Putrudu, this film was remade in Telugu.

Review of Devasuram (1993)

Set in a very traditional ‘valluvanadan’ (a district of Kerala famed for its affinity for art and culture), this film is undoubtedly one of the best Malayalam films ever made, and arguably one of the best Indian films in general. The plot illustrates how a feudal lord is extremely susceptible due to his disrespectful and spendthrift temperament. The vulnerability is revealed when the lord’s ill mother reveals that he was adopted as a child. Mohanlal depicts the subsequent events to exquisite precision. The whole supporting ensemble catches the audience’s imagination and attention with performances of this caliber throughout the film. It is necessary to mention Innocent and Oduvil Unnikrishnan’s relationship. Overall, missing out on this film would be a mistake!

8. Chithram (1988)

  • Director: Priyadarshan
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Nedumudi Venu, Renjini, Poornam Vishwanathan
  • Writter: Priyadarshan
  • Producer: P. K. R. Pillai
  • Music: Kannur Rajan(Song), Johnson (Score)
  • Rating: 8.7
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama, Musical
Chithram (1988) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Priyadarshan wrote and directed the 1988 Indian Malayalam-language screwball comedy film Chithram. Mohanlal, Ranjini, Nedumudi Venu, Lizy, Poornam Viswanathan, Sreenivasan, M. G. Soman, Sukumari, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Shanavas star in the film, which was produced by P. K. R. Pillai‘s Shirdi Sai Creations. Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair makes a cameo appearance. The songs were composed by Kannur Rajan, while the film score was composed by Johnson. This film earned Mohanlal the Kerala State Film Award – Special Jury Award for his performance.

Kalyani (Ranjini) decides, despite her father’s (Poornam Viswanathan) wishes to marry her boyfriend Ravi (Shanavas). However, Ravi ends the relationship upon learning that she will be disinherited. Kalyani’s father, who resides in the United States, is uninformed of the breakup and visits his daughter and son-in-law in Kerala. Advocate Kaimal (Nedumudi Venu) hires Vishnu (Mohanlal), a robber, to pose as Kalyani’s spouse during Menon’s trip.

Review of Chithram (1988)

This is one of Mohanlal and Priyadarshan’s most successful films. The Malayalam cinema industry recognized the gifted young singer MG Sreekumar with his excellent songs. The film is filled with humorous situations despite its melancholy conclusion. Mohanlal, Renjini, Nedumudi venu, and Sreenivasan have portrayed their characters with such naturalism that the film is unforgettable. The film was one of the most successful Malayalam films of the late 1980s. The versatility of Mohanlal’s performance throughout the film demonstrates his acting ability. Two outstanding pairings of the time, Mohanlal-Sreenivasan and Mohanlal-Priyadarshan, helped make the film one of Malayalam’s biggest hits.

9. Godfather (1991)

  • Director: Siddique-Lal
  • Stars: N.N. Pillai, Mukesh, Philomina, Thilakan
  • Writter: Siddique-Lal
  • Producer: Appachan
  • Music: S. Balakrishnan
  • Rating: 8.6
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
_Godfather (1991) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Godfather is an Indian action comedy-drama film written and directed by Siddique–Lal in 1991. Appachan produces it under the label of Swargachithra. N. N. Pillai, Mukesh, Philomina, Thilakan, Kanaka, Innocent, Siddique, Bheeman Raghu, and K. P. A. C. Lalitha comprise the ensemble cast of the film. The film is a retelling of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, focusing on the rivalry between the Anjooran and Anappara households and the repercussions of two members of these families falling in love.

Godfather was previously scheduled to be released before In Harihar Nagar (1990), but Siddique-Lal believed that the film’s script was incomplete and consequently pushed back the release date. On November 15, 1991, the picture was released to great reviews and went on to run for 417 days. The film was the year’s second-highest earner, after only Kilukkam. Later, it was translated into Telugu as Peddarikam, Marathi as Ghayaal, Hindi as Hulchul, Kannada as Pandavaru, and Odia as The Love Dot Com.

Review of Godfather (1991)

I’m struggling to find the right words to describe this film. The amount of comedic brilliance that went into crafting the Malayalam comedies of that era is just unrivaled. Everyone in this film was excellent. Everyone, from Philomena to NNP to Thilakan to Mukesh, did their utmost to make this a memorable comedy extravaganza. Mukesh is an extremely underrated actor. He has to be cast in the broader variety of roles, as in the current “Jomonte…” One of the best comedies ever created. However, nearly all of the great Malayalam comedies of that era are among the greatest ever made. The Malayalam cinema of that era was truly all-encompassing and in a class by itself.

10. Thoovanathumbikal (1987)

  • Director: P. Padmarajan
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Sumalatha, Parvathi, Ashokan
  • Writter: P. Padmarajan
  • Producer: P. Stanley
  • Music: Perumbavoor G. Raveendranath(Songs), Johnson(Score)
  • Rating: 8.6
  • Genre: Drama, Romance
_Thoovanathumbikal (1987) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Thoovanathumbikal is a 1987 Indian Malayalam-language love drama film written and directed by P. Padmarajan, partially based on his novel Udakappola. Jayakrishnan (Mohanlal) falls in love with two women: Radha (Parvathy), a distant relative, and Clara (Sumalatha), a local escort.

A commercial triumph at the box office, this experimental picture has become a cult classic with a considerable fan base over the years. IBN Live named the film seventh on its list of the greatest Indian films of all time. Mohanlal and Sumalatha’s performances, as well as the film’s rich film score and songs, dialogues and characters, and detailed storyline, have earned it widespread acclaim. Rain is a reoccurring motif and is practically portrayed as a character in the movie.

Review of Thoovanathumbikal (1987)

A film about a man who adheres to his own code of conduct in all of his actions but inadvertently violates it, resulting in life-altering consequences. Mohanlal portrays a man who resides in a village and has many acquaintances in the city. When he told the girl he liked her, he was turned down.

After that, he began a relationship with a virgin girl whose behaviour he never anticipated. Following his life’s values, he decides to marry that woman. At that point, the girl he truly loved arrives, and he must pick between the two. This man does not wish to conceal anything from his partner and informs her of his previous relationship. He cannot stop himself from seeing the old woman, and he must choose the best option.

11. Spadikam (1995)

  • Director: Bhadran
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Chippy, K.P.A.C. Lalitha, Thilakan, Urvashi
  • Writter: Bhadran
  • Producer: R. Mohan
  • Music: S. P. Venkatesh
  • Rating: 8.6
  • Genre: Action, Drama
Spadikam (1995) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Spadikam or Spatikam is a 1995 Indian Malayalam-language action-drama film written and directed by Bhadran, and produced by R. Mohan via Shogun Films. Rajendra Babu has composed dialogues. In addition to Mohanlal and Thilakan, the film also features Urvashi, Spadikam George, K. P. A. C. Lalitha, Rajan P. Dev, Silk Smitha, Nedumudi Venu, Chippy, and V. K. Sreeraman. S. P. Venkatesh created the original songs and score for the film. Thomas Chacko (Mohanlal), also known as Aadu Thoma, is a thug separated from his narcissistic father, Chacko Mash (Thilakan), after falling short of the latter’s lofty expectations.

Spadikam got praise from critics and was the highest-earning Malayalam film of the year, grossing over 8 crores. Mohanlal received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor, and the film won Best Film – Malayalam, Best Actor (Mohanlal), and Best Director at the Filmfare Awards South. The film has been redone in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada. The film has acquired cult significance over time. The persona of Aadu Thoma has become an icon of popular culture throughout time.

Review of Spadikam (1995)

One of the greatest displays By Mohanlal and Thilakan. The script and direction are excellent, leaving a raw impression after you leave the theatre. I feel sorry for my friend who described the film as merely average!!! Why aren’t films of similar calibre being made in the present Malayalam cinema industry? Mohanlal, who is regarded as one of the finest actors in the business, delivers one of the best performances of his career. The Mohanlal-Thilakan scenes are a delight to observe. Who is superior? The story’s protagonist, Aaduthoma, is one of Director-Writer Bharathan’s expertly crafted characters. The lifelike characters that once appeared in the Malayalam cinema industry, such as in Sphadikam, have disappeared.

12. Kaalapani (1996)

  • Director: Priyadarshan
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Amrish Puri, Prabhu, Tabu
  • Writter: Priyadarshan
  • Producer: Mohanlal, R. Mohan
  • Music: Ilaiyaraaja
  • Rating: 8.5
  • Genre: Action, Drama, History
Kaalapani (1996) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Priyadarshan co-wrote and directed the 1996 Indian Malayalam-language epic historical drama film Kaalapani. The film centers on the life of Indian independence activists imprisoned in the Cellular Jail (or Kl Pn) in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands during the British Raj in 1915. Mohanlal, Prabhu, Tabu, Amrish Puri, Nedumudi Venu, Sreenivasan, Tinnu Anand, Annu Kapoor, Alex Draper, Sankaradi, and Vineeth comprise the ensemble cast. Mohanlal produced the film through Pranavam Arts in collaboration with R. Mohan‘s Shogun Films.

The film depicts the lives of British India inmates transported to Kl Pn. The origin of the name Kalapani is the method of imprisonment in British India. Ilaiyaraaja created the music, the photography was by Santosh Sivan, and N. Gopalakrishnan edited the film. This movie introduced Dolby Stereo to the Malayalam film industry. It was produced at a budget of 2.50 crore, making it the most expensive Malayalam film up until that point.

On April 6, 1996, Kaalapani was released in 450 cinemas globally, which was the widest release of any Indian film up to that point. The film is currently considered one of Malayalam cinema’s classics. The film was dubbed and released in Hindi as Saza-E-Kala Pani, Tamil as Siraichalai, and Telugu as Kaala Pani. It was originally produced in Malayalam. In addition to purchasing the Hindi dubbing rights, Amitabh Bachchan narrated the introduction for the Hindi version. Four National Picture Awards were given to the film, including Best Art Direction (Sabu Cyril), Best Special Effects (S. T. Venky), and Best Cinematography (Santosh Sivan). In addition, the film received seven Kerala State Film Awards.

Review of Kaalapani (1996)

I have never seen a better depiction of pre-independence India than in Priyadarshan’s magnum opus. In this affecting cinematic extravaganza, Mohanlal plays the character of Govardhan with aplomb, while Prabhu is a wonderful counterpoint, and the supporting cast does an admirable job as well. The cinematography, script, and editing are all of the highest quality. As one of the first Indian films to utilize DTS technology, the film makes excellent use of it. The narrative is masterfully constructed, and the conclusion is outstanding. An incredible must-see.

13. Guru (1997)

  • Director: Rajiv Anchal
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Madhupal, Kaveri
  • Writter: Rajiv Anchal
  • Producer: Janasammathi Creations
  • Music: Ilaiyaraaja
  • Rating: 8.5
  • Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Guru (1997) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Guru is a 1997 Indian Malayalam film directed by Rajiv Anchal and written by C. G. Rajendra Babu based on a story by Rajeev. Nassar makes a cameo appearance alongside Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Madhupal, Sithara, Kaveri, Sreelakshmi, Nedumudi Venu, and Sreenivasan.

Ilaiyaraaja was the composer of the original musical score and songs. Hungary’s Budapest Symphony Orchestra conducted and performed his symphonic composition. This was the first time in the history of Indian cinema that a film’s background score was recorded entirely outside the country. Guru was selected as India’s official Oscar submission for Best Foreign Language Film category. Guru is the first Malayalam film to be submitted to the Academy Awards by India.

Review of Guru (1997)

A fantastic story that affects the mystic life of the human mind and the existential and actual lives of the people, based on a notion that has fused with the social condition of the present age. The production of the picture drew everyone’s interest, Guru… that was a movie. The valley of the blind is scenic and attractive… The question and its solution illustrate how blind and cruel religious thought can be.

14. Sadayam (1992)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Augustine, Janardanan, Kaveri
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: G. P. Vijayakumar
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.5
  • Genre: Drama, Thriller
_Sadayam (1992) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Sadayam is a 1992 Indian Malayalam-language psychological drama written and directed by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. It stars Mohanlal, Thilakan, Nedumudi Venu, Murali, Sreenivasan, Maathu, K. P. A. C. Lalitha, and T. G. Ravi. Seven Arts FilmsG. P. Vijayakumar produced and distributed the film. Johnson composed the film’s soundtrack.

The plot follows convicted murderer Sathyanathan (Mohanlal), who is awaiting the death penalty for killing two young girls and two men. The film’s performance by Mohanlal is considered one of the best of his career. Despite performing poorly at the box office, the film’s cult following led to its appreciation years later. M. T. Vasudevan Nair won the Best Screenplay award at the National Film Awards.

Review of Sadayam (1992)

It’s hard to believe how much the Malayalam film business had grown by the early 1990s when other film industries in India were still generating big profits by fooling their massive audiences with animated films.

Thank you to the director, Mohan Lal, and everyone else who contributed to this masterpiece.

15. Namukku Parkkan Munthiri Thoppukal (1986)

  • Director: P. Padmarajan
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Shari, Thilakan, Vineeth
  • Writter: K. K. Sudhakaran
  • Producer: Mani Malliath
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.5
  • Genre: Romance
_Namukku Parkkan Munthiri Thoppukal (1986) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Namukku Parkkan Munthirithoppukal is a 1986 Indian Malayalam-language romance drama film written and directed by Padmarajan based on the 1986 novel Nammukku Gramangalil Chennu Rapparkkam by K. K. Sudhakaran. Mohanlal, Shari, Thilakan, Vineeth, and Kaviyoor Ponnamma appear in the film. Johnson was the composer of the music. The plot focuses on a Malayali Christian-Nasrani (“Nazarene”) Syrian family. There are references throughout the narrative to Song of Songs, which shows the loving discourse between a young woman and her boyfriend.

Venu got the National Film Award for Best Cinematography, and Shari won the Kerala State Film Award and Filmfare Award for Best Actress in Malayalam for their work on the film. The film attained cult status in Kerala and was regarded as one of the greatest romantic Malayalam films ever produced.

Review of Sadayam (1992)

It’s hard to believe how much the Malayalam film business had grown by the early 1990s when other film industries in India were still generating big profits by fooling their massive audiences with animated films.

Thank you to the director, Mohan Lal, and everyone else who contributed to this masterpiece.

16. Thanmathra (2005)

  • Director: Blessy
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Meera Vasudevan, Arjun Lal, Nedumudi Venu
  • Writter: Blessy
  • Producer: Raju Mathew
  • Music: Mohan Sithara
  • Rating: 8.4
  • Genre: Drama
Thanmathra (2005) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Based on Padmarajan’s short story “Orma,” Blessy wrote and directed the 2005 Indian Malayalam-language drama film Thanmathra. It depicts the effects of Alzheimer’s illness on Ramesan Nair’s (Mohanlal) and his family’s lives. The film grossed three times its budget at the box office and ran for a total of 150 days. Thanmathra was awarded five Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Film, Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Screenplay, in addition to a Special Mention Award for the debuting actor Arjun Lal. It also received the Best Malayalam Feature Film award at the 53rd National Film Awards.

17. Dasharatham (1989)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Rekha, Murali, Karamana Janardanan Nair
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Saga Appachan
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.4
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama
Dasharatham (1989) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Dasharatham is a 1989 Indian Malayalam-language drama film directed by Sibi Malayil and written by A. K. Lohithadas. It stars Mohanlal, Rekha, Murali, Nedumudi Venu, Sukumaran, Karamana Janardanan Nair, Sukumari, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, K. P. A. C. Lalitha, and Jayabharathi. Johnson was the composer of the music. The film explores the topic of surrogacy.

Dasharatham is regarded as one of Lohithadas and Sibi Malayil’s finest films. The Kerala Film Critics Award for Best Scriptwriter went to Lohithadas. Dasharatham was the first Malayalam film to be officially dubbed into Marathi and released under the title Mazaa Mulga.

18. Amaram (1991)

  • Director: Bharathan
  • Stars: Mammootty, Maathu, Chitra, Murali
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Babu Thiruvalla
  • Music: Raveendran (songs), Johnson (score)
  • Rating: 8.4
  • Genre: Drama
Amaram (1991) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Amaram is an Indian Malayalam drama film released in 1991, directed by Bharathan, and written by A. K. Lohithadas. Mammootty, Maathu, K. P. A. C. Lalitha, Ashokan, Murali, Chitra, and Kuthiravattam Pappu are in the lead roles. Johnson composed the film’s score, whereas Raveendran composed its songs.

Bhargavi earned K. P. A. C. Lalitha the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress. And Mammotty received the Filmfare Award South for Best Actor for his performance. The film was a commercial and critical success and is regarded as a classic of Malayalam cinema. It ran for over 200 days at the Ragam Theater in Thrissur and over 50 days at the Safire Theater in Madras.

19. Bharatham (1991)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Urvashi, Nedumudi Venu, Kaviyoor Ponnamma
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Mohanlal
  • Music: Raveendran (songs), Johnson (score)
  • Rating: 8.4
  • Genre: Drama, Musical
Bharatham (1991) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Bharatham is a 1991 Indian Malayalam musical drama film directed by Sibi Malayil and written by A. K. Lohithadas. It stars Mohanlal, Urvashi, Nedumudi Venu, Lakshmi, and Murali. Mohanlal produced the film through his production company Pranavam Arts. The soundtrack for the film was composed by Raveendran and Johnson. Bharatham is seen as a contemporary retelling of the Ramayana from Bharatha’s point of view. How, in the absence of his older brother, Gopinathan assumes family duty and conceals his sorrows is the central theme of the novel.

The picture was a critical and financial success, running in theatres for 125 days. Bharatham is also renowned for its predominantly Carnatic classical and semiclassical music. The film received three National Film Awards, including Best Actor for Mohanlal, Best Male Playback Singer for K. J. Yesudas for “Rama Katha Ganalayam,” and Special Mention for Raveendran’s music, as well as five Kerala State Film Awards. Forbes India highlighted Mohanlal’s performance in the film in its 2013 list of the “25 Greatest Acting Performances in Indian Cinema.” In 2000, it was adapted in Tamil as Seenu by P. Vasu.

20. Drishyam (2013)

  • Director: Jeethu Joseph
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Meena, Asha Sharath, Ansiba
  • Writter: Jeethu Joseph
  • Producer: Mohanlal
  • Music: Anil Johnson, Vinu Thomas(Songs), Anil Johnson(Score)
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Drishyam (2013) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

A family’s happiness, suffering, emotions, and fight. Some scenes will leave you speechless. There are instances that leave you thinking all night. There are shocking plot twists that will turn your world upside down. This is an incredible tale. A fantastic film that belongs at the top of any list. Jeethu has once again demonstrated his skills. Of course, Mohanlal once again demonstrated that he is the industry’s true “superstar.” This film features several excellent performances.

This is Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph at their best. The remainder of the team, particularly Meena, Siddique, and Kalabhavan Shajohn, appear to be incredibly devoted to their individual roles and are truly fantastic. The film is considered to be the greatest of the year. This is so unconventional that I am utterly speechless.

21. Bangalore Days (2014)

  • Director: Anjali Menon
  • Stars: Dulquer Salmaan, Nivin Pauly, Nazriya Nazim, Fahadh Faasil
  • Writter: Anjali Menon
  • Producer: Anwar Rasheed
  • Music: Gopi Sunder
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
_Bangalore Days (2014) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Bangalore Days is a 2014 Indian Malayalam-language coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama film co-produced by Anwar Rasheed and Sophia Paul under the banners Anwar Rasheed Entertainments and Weekend Blockbusters.

Bangalore days are vibrant. The film tells the story of three cousins who go to Bangalore in order to pursue their aspirations.

The plot focuses on the experiences of three twenty-somethings and how each of them copes with the twists and turns of their own life. The audience’s expectations for the film were excessively high due to its illustrious cast. And let me tell you, it absolutely lives up to the hype! The film contains:

  • Laudable transitions.
  • Praiseworthy humour.
  • An agreeable running period of 170 minutes.
  • One of the most enjoyable plots.

All of these elements, strengthened by exceptional acting, contribute to the film’s appeal, making it a full package.

Kudos to whoever was responsible for gathering such a brilliant film cast. As one of the three main characters, Nivin Pauly was as natural as he could have been. In addition, the manner in which he tells their voyage makes the writing much more delightful. Nazriya is a credible female protagonist. She is gifted with the ability to portray emotional scenes, which can only improve with time. Among the three main characters, Dulquer Salman’s performance was the best. It is not easy to portray a rambunctious biker who is driven by deep emotions, but Salman has nailed the performance. Fahadh Fasil was superb in his portrayal of a young, enraged spouse; his acting was faultless! As RJ, Parvathy Menon Sarah was the icing on the cake; she unquestionably made an impact. Other small roles performed by Isha Talwar and Kalpana were also subpar.

With her second major directorial effort, Anjali Menon has unquestionably achieved success. In addition, a distinguished and magnificent screenplay captivates the audience. The departments of Editing and Cinematography have excelled at their respective tasks. All of the locations in Kerala and Bangalore have been expertly portrayed on film. Gopi Sunder’s music and other background scores were also well above average.

Bangalore days is the ideal combination of excellent drama, endearing romance, and raucous humour. Lovely is the appropriate word! Those who enjoy watching jovial youth dramas and romantic tales will undoubtedly fall in love with this one.

22. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016)

  • Director: Dileesh Pothan
  • Stars: Fahadh Faasil, Aparna Balamurali, Soubin Shahir, Alencier Ley Lopez
  • Writter: Syam Pushkaran
  • Producer: Anwar Rasheed
  • Music: Bijibal
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama, Thriller
_Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016)f Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Maheshinte Prathikaaram is a 2016 Indian Malayalam-language comedy-drama film directed for the first time by Dileesh Pothan and produced by Aashiq Abu. The film stars Fahadh Faasil in the title character, along with Aparna Balamurali, Anusree, Alencier Ley Lopez, and Soubin Shahir in supporting roles. The story is based on an episode in the life of Thampan Purushan from Thuravoor, Cherthala, and was written by Syam Pushkaran. The film’s cinematographer was Shyju Khalid, while Bijibal created the score.

Maheshinte Prathikaaram.. A distinct type of film when compared to Fahad Faaasil’s previous works. Studio photographer Mahesh is an unambitious individual with no lofty goals in life. His father was the most silent character in that film. But effectively communicating his message through his silence. Mahesh likes Sowmya, his childhood friend, and she feels the same way about him. An unexpected change of circumstances causes Mahesh to engage in a fight with the gangster Jimson, who ultimately defeats Mahesh in front of the crowd. Mahesh being humiliated in front of everyone. Dileesh Pothan has arranged and presented the subsequent events in Mahesh’s life in an excellent manner. Thanks to Soubin’s opportune entrance and Bijibal’s timeless soundtrack, the film is a great delight to see. Fahad Faasil deserves credit for bringing out Mahesh so beautifully.

23. Pathemari (2015)

  • Director: Salim Ahamed
  • Stars: Mammootty, Sreenivasan, Jewel Mary, Joy Mathew
  • Writter: Salim Ahamed
  • Producer: Salim Ahamed
  • Music: Bijibal
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Drama
Pathemari (2015) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Pathemari is a 2015 Indian Malayalam-language period drama film written and directed by Salim Ahamed, starring Mammootty, with Jewel Mary, Siddique, Sreenivasan, Salim Kumar, Shaheen Siddique, Viji Chandrasekhar, and Joy Mathew in supporting roles. The plot chronicles the life of Pallikkal Narayanan (Mammootty), who immigrated to the Middle East in the early 1960s, just as the Kerala Gulf boom was beginning.

An Ode to the True Perseverance Spirit of Migrating Malayalis. A film is having a profound emotional and intellectual impact and a lasting message. Many Malayalis must have revered Pathemari, This film provides a detailed account of a Malayali’s life from the 1960s decade till his passing.

24. Pranchiyettan and the Saint (2010)

  • Director: Ranjith
  • Stars: Mammootty, Priyamani, Jesse Fox Allen, Innocent
  • Writter: Ranjith
  • Producer: Ranjith
  • Music: Ouseppachan
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama
Pranchiyettan and the Saint (2010) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Ranjith wrote, directed, and produced the 2010 Indian Malayalam-language satire comedy film Pranchiyettan & the Saint. The film focuses on a fake dialogue between the Thrissur-based businessman C. E. Francis a.k.a. Pranchiyettan (Mammootty), and St. Francis of Assisi (Jesse Fox Allen).

25. Moonnam Pakkam (1988)

  • Director: Padmarajan
  • Stars: Jagathi N.K. Achari, Ajayan Adoor, Ajayan, Ashokan
  • Writter: Padmarajan
  • Producer: Balan
  • Music: Ilaiyaraaja
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Drama
Moonnam Pakkam (1988) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Moonnam Pakkam is a 1988 Indian Malayalam-language emotional drama film written and directed by Padmarajan. It stars Thilakan, Jayaram, Kirti Singh, Jagathi Sreekumar, Rahman, Ashokan and Ajayan. In this film, Kirti and Ajayan made their debut. The film was a commercial success and has one of Thilakan’s most famous acting turns.

Padmarajan’s Moonnam Pakkam is one of my favorite nostalgic films I’ve seen to date. Everyone who cherishes their childhood days and moments could not see this film without experiencing immense joy and tears at the same time. Thilakan’s portrayal of Thampi is one of his career highlights. The film is expertly created by Padmarajan, from the writing to the casting. There is nothing remarkable about this flick. However, the method in which it captures significant life events makes it a priceless contribution to the Malayalam cinema industry.

26. Mathilukal (1990)

  • Director: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Stars: Mammootty, Thilakan, Karamana Janardanan Nair, Murali
  • Writter: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Producer: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Music: Vijaya Raman
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Drama, Romance
_Mathilukal (1990)Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Mathilukal is a 1990 Indian Malayalam film written, directed, and produced by Adoor Gopalakrishnan, based on Vaikom Muhammad Basheer’s autobiographical novel of the same name.

This film is distinctive due of its style. Even though it is a romantic love story, the female actress or character does not appear until the end of the film. This is a brilliant idea, no? This is one of Adoor Gopalkrishnan’s most admired works. The protagonist is a prisoner who falls in love with a woman who is imprisoned behind a wall. The film is based on the few years spent in prison by Malayalam author VM Basheer. The film art for his autobiography is cinematic. During his incarceration, he authored stories and novels.

The film reveals the pre-independence jail system and the life of convicts. How dismal it was. They were fed food while incarcerated in their room. People spent their lives gossiping, smoking, and wandering around. They lost track of the number of days spent in prison. After a lengthy delay, they would suddenly receive release orders. The protagonist was arrested for civic disobedience against the British raj. He has been incarcerated for over four years. He enjoyeds the esteem of all prison administrators. His works were warmly accepted and admired by everyone. He was encouraged to write by regularly receiving a pen and paper. Few inmates also provided him with cigarettes to smoke. The prison chef provided him with tea and sugar so he could make tea for himself.

27. Vidheyan (1994)

  • Director: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Stars: Mammootty, M.R. Gopakumar, Tanvi Azmi, Sabitha Anand
  • Writter: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
  • Producer: K. Ravindran Nair
  • Music: Vijaya Bhaskar
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Drama
Vidheyan (1994) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Vidheyan is a 1994 Indian Malayalam-language drama film directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan and written by him. It is a film version of Paul Zacharia’s Malayalam novella Bhaskara Pattelarum Ente Jeevithavum. The film examines the relationship between owner and slave in South Karnataka. The film stars Mammootty and M. R. Gopakumar in the leading roles.

The film won the National Film Award for Best Malayalam Feature Film, and Mammootty received the award for Best Actor. Additionally, it received multiple accolades at the Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Film.

Mammootty and GopaKumar’s rock-solid performances rescue Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s excess of accurate Slavery, which lacks emotional heft but is salvaged by the performances of Mammootty and GopaKumar. Vidheyan begins on a terrible note in which we admire the main character’s realism and total cruelty. As a viewer, one typically expects the film to either make sense, present horrifying truths, or sometimes break the quiet on the same topic, but Vidheyan fails to deliver a positive message, except that it has a positive message that comes off naturally. Thommy, a Christian migrant worker from Kerala, is Bhaskara Pattelar’s faithful slave. Thommy follows all of his master’s orders, whether they be to make his own wife sexually available to his master or to murder Pattelar’s kind wife, Saroja. When Pattelar escapes to the bush as a result of his own actions, Thommy accompanies him as a pet. But when Pattelar is assassinated, Thommy rejoices in his independence. The extent of Thommy’s fidelity was excessive. When I saw him crying for the master at the end, I wondered if he had lost his mind. He knows that his master is doing so many bad things, and he even tells him repeatedly. He ought to have been content. I didn’t quite grasp the objective of this passage; was it an attempt to depict oppression without resistance, or was it about luck? From both perspectives, it had flaws. I recalled 1970s Shyam Benegal films with similar themes about the tyranny, brutality, and depotism of the upper class, but with fightback sequences that made them inspirational and hard-hitting. Throughout the movie, Vidheyan lacks this fighting spirit. The exceptional performances of Mammootty and GopaKumar make this slow-paced picture really enjoyable to watch. I wish Adoor sir had opted for an assertive cinematic tone as opposed to a defensive one.

28. Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989)

  • Director: Sreenivasan
  • Stars: Sreenivasan, Parvathi, Innocent, K.P.A.C. Lalitha
  • Writter: Sreenivasan
  • Producer: Sreenivasan
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.3
  • Genre: Comedy, Drama
Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Vadakkunokkiyantram is a 1989 Indian Malayalam comedy film written and directed by Sreenivasan, who also acts alongside Parvathy. The film is about marital strife induced by the Othello condition of the spouse. The film received three Kerala State Film Awards, including the award for Best Film. It was dubbed in Telugu as Sandeham and recreated in Tamil as Dindigul Sarathy, in Kannada as Nanjangudu Nanjunda, and in Hindi as Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh.

The film begins with his marriage, and the scene in which he meets his newlywed bride in his chamber and the way he converses with her are very amusing. Trust me, Sreenivasan is the only actor who can pull this off. And then, because of his inferiority complex, he begins to distrust his wife for all the wrong reasons; if he sees her sharing a joke with his younger brother, he becomes so enraged that he wants to burn the house down!

The scene in which Parvathi informs him that many great people, including her uncle, frequently consume alcohol. That very day, Srreeni feels like he’s been reborn, so he goes to a pub and becomes really drunk with his friend, played by innocent-who is PERFECT!

This is one of the rare Malayalam films with a superb narrative and story, and o ya..hilarious Sreenivasan’s dialogue makes the film a whole UNique..! If you’ve seen this, you must also watch MANDAMAAR LONDONIL (FOOLS IN LONDON)…this is excellent!

29. Vanaprastham (1999)

  • Director: Shaji N. Karun
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Suhasini, Mattanoor Shankara Marar, Kalamandalam Gopi
  • Writter: Pierre Assouline
  • Producer: Pierre Assouline, Mohanlal (co-producer)
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.2
  • Genre: Zakir Hussain
Vanaprastham (1999) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Vanaprastham: The Last Dance is a 1999 Malayalam-language Indo-French psychological drama period film directed by Shaji N. Karun. It was co-produced by Mohanlal and produced by Pierre Assouline. Based on a narrative by Assouline, the script was created by Karun and Raghunath Paleri, who also wrote the dialogue. In supporting roles are Suhasini Maniratnam, Mattannur Sankarankutty Marar, Kalamandalam Gopi, Venmani Haridas, and Kukku Parameshwaram. Zakir Hussain composed the film’s music.

The film had its world premiere at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 1999, where it was selected for the Un Certain Regard section. It was released in France on October 13, 1999, and in India in January 2000. At the American Film Institute’s 1999 AFI Fest, the film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize (Los Angeles International Film Festival). It was awarded the Special Jury Prize at the Istanbul International Film Festival and the FIPRESCI award at the Mumbai International Film Festival. The film received three prizes at the 47th National Film Honors, including Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Mohanlal), and Best Editing (A. Sreekar Prasad), as well as six awards at the 1999 Kerala State Film Awards, including Best Director and Best Actor (Mohanlal). Vanaprastham was played retrospectively in the segment Celebrating Dance in Indian Cinema at the 45th International Film Festival of India in 2014.

30. Kaazhcha (2004)

  • Director: Blessy
  • Stars: Mammootty, Yash Gawli, Padmapriya, Sanusha
  • Writter: Blessy
  • Producer: Chef K. Naushad, Xavy Mano Mathew
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.2
  • Genre: Drama
Kaazhcha (2004) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Kaazcha is a 2004 Indian Malayalam-language family drama film written and directed for the first time by Blessy. The plot centers on Pavan (Yash Gawli), a boy who relocates to Kerala after losing everything in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake. Madhavan (Mammootty), a film projector, meets the youngster and takes him with him. The film received three Filmfare Awards South, and actress Padmapriya made her debut. According to reports, the film was inspired by the 1986 Iranian film Bashu, the Little Stranger.

The film illustrates how much love our hearts are capable of giving. The film’s protagonists are plain folks, a basic family, who bond with a youngster, a refugee from a distant state, with whom they speak using the language of love. The shock produced by the earthquakes, the loss of family, and the brutality of society in the child’s heart are depicted beautifully and would move even the hardest of hearts. In the background, you can see the heavenly beauty of the village where our heroes reside, which is unaffected by modernization, prosperous, and filled with joy. The film then depicts the conflict between the forces of love and the rigid norms of a bureaucratic society. One of the film’s strongest moments is the change of a broken-down child into a determined individual, which is brought about by the basic support of a group of caring individuals. I will not provide any other plot details. You should watch it.

31. Thazhvaram (1990)

  • Director: Bharathan
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Salim Ghouse, Sumalatha, Anju
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: V. B. K. Menon
  • Music: Bharathan(Songs), Johnson(Score)
  • Rating: 8.2
  • Genre: Crime, Drama, Musical
Thazhvaram (1990) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Thazhvaram is a 1990 Indian Malayalam western suspense film directed by Bharathan and scripted by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. It stars Mohanlal, Salim Ghouse, Sumalatha, Anju and Sankaradi. It depicts the tale of Balan (Mohanlal), who is searching for Raju (Salim Ghouse) in retaliation for the murder of his wife Raji (Anju). Bharathan also composed the sole song included in the film, while Johnson provided the background score.

A simple 1990s revenge drama could not have had greater execution and acting than this. Old Hollywood’s Westerns exude authentic red vibes. Thazhvaram has a straightforward plot, yet the film’s execution exceeds its potential on paper. Sometimes a good story is ruined by a boring narrative, and sometimes the opposite occurs. In my opinion, Thazhvaram is a case of a simple story receiving a presentation that is superior to its merits. When Raju murders Balan’s wife and steals his hard-earned money, their once-friendly friendship transforms into rivalry. Balan vows to take revenge on Raju. It reminded me of numerous Western films from old Hollywood (before to the 1960s) that had a similar storyline but turned out far better due to skilled direction. With a stronger screenplay, Thazhvaram may have been improvised on paper. It begins on a hesitant note. This scene in the first fifteen minutes in which Balan encourages Raju to seek retribution, but then squanders the opportunity. That didn’t make sense to me, but what follows would have been impossible if it hadn’t happened that way. Intense performances by Mohanlal and Salim Ghouse have made this picture more watchable; I would go so far as to call it practically essential viewing. Sumlatha and Anju are both incredibly attractive and do their roles admirably alongside Sankardi. The director and actors are more responsible for Thazhvaram than the writer. One may easily foresee what will happen next, hence the suspense is absent, but you cannot predict how the director will portray the situation on screen or how the actors will enhance it. Bharathan has deprived Thazhvaram of all boredom. The best aspect of the picture is that, despite its predictability, it holds your attention. Overall, a Wonderfully Compelling Revenge Story.

32. Classmates (2006)

  • Director: Lal Jose
  • Stars: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Indrajith Sukumaran, Kavya Madhavan, Narain
  • Writter: James Albert
  • Producer: Prakash Damodaran, P. K. Muralidharan
  • Music: Prakash Damodaran, P. K. Muralidharan
  • Rating: 8.1
  • Genre: Drama, Mystery, Romance
Classmates (2006) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Classmates is a 2006 Indian Malayalam-language coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama film that was written and directed by Lal Jose and James Albert. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Narain, Jayasurya, Indrajith Sukumaran, and Kavya Madhavan, with Jagathy Sreekumar, Balachandra Menon, and Radhika in supporting parts. Alex Paul composed the film’s score, and Rajeev Ravi was responsible for the photography. The plot centers on the graduating college class of 1991. In 2006, while living and working in different parts of the globe, the friends reunited for a class reunion to relive the joy and hilarity of their college years. On the night of the class reunion, one of the students is nearly murdered and enters a coma.

Campus life is all about friendship, love, broken hearts, memories, and happiness, which no other film has depicted on such a profound level as a classmate. It is not just a campus film, but also a romance, thriller, and revenge film. Watching this film will be a nostalgic experience. As Sukumaran, Prithviraj was spellbinding in his superb portrayal. Lal Jose’s brilliance as a director is evident throughout the entire film; the whole cast and setting exemplify his brilliance. A must-watch film that will never let you down.

33. Aaram Thamburan (1997)

  • Director: Shaji Kailas
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Manju Warrier, Narendra Prasad, Saikumar
  • Writter: Ranjith
  • Producer: G. Suresh Kumar,Sanal Kumar
  • Music: Raveendran
  • Rating: 8.1
  • Genre: Action, Drama
_Aaram Thamburan (1997) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Aaraam Thampuran is a 1997 action drama film directed by Shaji Kailas, written by Ranjith, and produced by Revathy Kalamandhir. In supporting roles are Narendra Prasad, Manju Warrier, Sai Kumar, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Cochin Haneefa, and Srividya.

Mohanlal’s most revered role, from one of the most acclaimed Malayalam films, is a classic and lives on in people’s minds through many imitations and pop culture references. The film is undeniably entertaining with unforgettable one-liners, fantastic tunes, and gorgeous imagery that can only be found in Malayalam cinema. However, this does not alter the reality that it is an utterly absurd film with a stupid plot and hilariously corny dialogue. How unashamedly it is a fanfare for actor Mohanlal is evidenced by the way it functions. It is a total homage to him, with characters constantly praising him as he performs impossible tasks. Another issue I have with the majority of old Malayalam films is the absurd use of background music. Though I did love portions of it, the majority is so cringe-worthy, but the situations that are often referenced are enjoyable to watch out of context. The success of this film spawned a large number of similar films, which marked the beginning of a dark period in Malayalam cinema, during which everything collapsed, and the industry lost all hope. Newcomers changed the industry for the better, so recognizing these films as classics will not help the industry if it doesn’t already do so.

34. Take Off (2017)

  • Director: Mahesh Narayanan
  • Stars: Parvathy Thiruvothu, Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Prakash Belawadi
  • Writter: Mahesh Narayanan
  • Producer: Anto Joseph, Shebin Backer, Megha Rajesh
  • Music: Gopi Sunder, Shaan Rahman(Songs), Gopi Sunder(Score)
  • Rating: 8.1
  • Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Take Off (2017) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Take Off is a 2017 Indian Malayalam-language survival thriller based on the 2014 experience of Indian medics in the Iraqi city of Tikrit. The film is Mahesh Narayan’s directorial debut and stars Parvathy Thiruvothu, Kunchacko Boban, Fahadh Faasil, and Divya Prabha. The authors are Mahesh Narayan and P. V. Shajikumar. The movie was filmed in several locations in Dubai and Kerala. Take Off was published on March 24, 2017. The film was a box office success, received the Special Jury Award at the 48th International Film Festival of India, and Parvathy won the prize for Best Female Actor, making her the first Indian actress to win the award. Parvathy got her second Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress, her second Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Malayalam, and her first Special Jury Mention at the National Film Awards for her outstanding portrayal as Sameera. The Hindu ranked it among the top 25 Malayalam films of the decade.

A Traditional Drama on Evacuation with Emotional Intelligence. What the Bollywood film ‘Airlift’ lacked, Take Off has in plenty. Since ‘Argo’ won Oscars, this idea of evacuation has gained momentum. Bollywood’s ‘Baby’, a spy thriller that shared many similarities with it, was followed by Raja Menon’s ‘Airlift’, a drama about evacuees. However, the actual promise of emotional and patriotic quotient was not met by Airlift, and it has haunted me greatly ever since. I am ecstatic to have witnessed ‘Take Off,’ a Malayalam drama that matches its potential and aspirations with engaging human components. In 2014, a group of Malayali nurses were seized during the terrorist takeover of the Iraqi city of Tikrit. This film depicts the struggle endured by the nurses after their capture. Not only the beginning, but the entire first half of the film is devoted to establishing the situation prior to the capture. I still believe it was unnecessary, but I must give credit for establishing a link between the husband, his pregnant wife, and their son. Therefore, the film’s first part is a family drama, while the second half is an evacuation thriller. Incredible performances by Parvathy Thiruvothu, Kunchacko Boban, and Fahadh Faasil propel the film. In the second half, the storyline is fantastic, the dialogue is wonderful, the photography is excellent, and Mahesh Narayan’s direction is superb. He creates a good tale with intelligent conflicts; this is the only thing Airlift lacked after the director’s brilliance. Take Off is an essential viewing experience. It has a high level of emotions, passion, and dependability, and most importantly, it has the necessary goosebumps moments. Not to be missed.

35. Dhruvam (1993)

  • Director: Joshiy
  • Stars: Jayaram, Suresh Gopi, Mammootty, Janardanan
  • Writter: A. K. Sajan
  • Producer: M. Mani
  • Music: S. P. Venkatesh
  • Rating: 8.1
  • Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Dhruvam (1993) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Dhruvam is a 1993 Indian Malayalam-language action thriller film directed by Joshiy,[1] where story and dialogue are by S. N. Swamy and A. K. Sajan and screenplay by S. N. Swamy. It stars Mammootty, Jayaram, Suresh Gopi, Vikram, Gautami and Tiger Prabhakar. The musical score and songs were composed by S. P. Venkatesh. It was Vikram’s debut in Malayalam cinema. The film was a blockbuster at the box office and was dubbed in Tamil as Narasimha Naicker. This was the final combination of Mammootty and Suresh Gopi before Twenty:20, except for a cameo appearance in The King.

An araachar (hangman) from Tamil Nadu is hired by the prison authorities to hang Hyder Marakkar, a notorious gangster with terrorists links, but is killed in a road accident. DIG Marar smells foul play as the hangmen are either murdered, bribed or threatened. Marar’s efforts to bring the hangmen from other states are also in vain as all of them are simply too afraid to hang Hyder, where he goes to Kamakshipuram along with a young police officer named Jose Nariman, to meet Narasimha Mannadiar, a revered village lord and member of the royal family who had once ruled the hamlet, and is worshipped and revered by his villagers. Mannadiar is known for his generous and fearless attitude, and his thirst for justice and peace for his village has made him an enemy in the eyes of politicians and a certain group of cops. While on the search for the state’s hangman, Mannadiar and Marar luckily meets the hangman’s brother Kasi, who agrees to hang Hyder. Upon Nariman’s request, Mannadiar’s secretary Ponmani, shares a few stories from Mannadiar’s life that made him popular. One among them was shared with his younger brother Veerasimha Mannadiar.

Upon hearing the story, Nariman decides to help Mannadiar. Although convicted by court for execution, Marakkar tries every possible way to escape. Mannadiar and Bhadran get themselves taken to the prison where Hyder has been kept. While transferring Hyder to another prison, Mannadiar, along with Bhadran, kidnaps Hyder with Nariman’s assistance. Hyder challenges Mannadiar to a fair fight, where he initially overpowers Mannadiar, who soon gets the better of him. In order to save Mannadiar from a bomb thrown by Hyder’s associates, Nariman catches the bomb and falls on it, which explodes, killing him. Mannadiar hangs Hyder from a tree. At the court, Mannadiar takes the full responsibility for the murders thereby making Bhadran a pardoned-witness and Mannadiar receives death sentence from the court.

36. Ayalum Njanum Thammil… (2012)

  • Director: Lal Jose
  • Stars: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Prathap Pothen, Narain, Samvrutha Sunil
  • Writter: Bobby Sanjay
  • Producer: Prem Prakash
  • Music: Ouseppachan
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama, Romance, Thriller
Ayalum Njanum Thammil… (2012) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Lal Jose directed the 2012 Indian Malayalam-language drama film Ayalum Njanum Thammil. Bobby and Sanjay wrote the script for the movie that Prem Prakash produced. It stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Pratap Pothen, Narain, Samvrutha Sunil, Rima Kallingal, and Remya Nambeesan.

Ayalum Njanum Thammil is the narrative of a responsible senior physician and an irresponsible junior physician. Their interaction paints a vivid picture of the medical profession. Ouseppachan composed both the sound track and the background music. On 19 October 2012, the film was released to widespread critical praise. Prithviraj Sukumaran won the award for best actor.

The film holds up quite nicely. It is the tale of a young person who learns valuable life lessons. A transition from personal pleasures to a life of commitment and significance.

Some circumstances were compelling. There are songs, although they barely interfere with the film. The film has some humor, but it does not stand out.

Prathap Poththan was the most impressive actor in the film. Prithviraj has also performed well. The film does a reasonable job of incorporating elements of everyday life into its plot.

Interspersing the history and the present was accomplished skillfully, with significant pieces from the past and the present presented sequentially without confusing the audience.

In keeping with the current Malayalam industry trend, this film avoids well-trodden paths. The film features brand-new compositions that have not previously been commercially successful, but the majority well receives them.

37. Kammatti Paadam (2016)

  • Director: Rajeev Ravi
  • Stars: Dulquer Salmaan, Vinayakan, Shaun Romy, Anil Nedumangad
  • Writter: P. Balachandran
  • Producer: Prem Menon
  • Music: K(BGM),K,Vinayakan(Songs)
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Action, Drama
)Kammatti Paadam (2016) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Kammattipadam laments the loss of purity at the hands of the avaricious, apathetic, and dishonest. It is violent, similar to Ravi’s prior two films. And it is unflinching. The film’s goals are noble. It brings to the screen those that traditional Mollywood would never approve of. It supports them and chants their tunes.

Previously, Rajeev Ravi had given us films such as Annayum Rasoolum and Njan Steve Lopez, which were deeply realistic and depicted love stories. Both of these films were praised by reviewers for their realistic depictions of life, but failed to make an impact at the box office. Therefore, he attempted to create a film with mass appeal this time. He achieved complete success in his endeavour. Nonetheless, he maintained the sophistication that distinguishes his film unique from typical comedies. The unique manner in which he narrated the film will be a pleasure for his followers.

P Balachandran’s screenplay maintained an ideal pace and intensity throughout. Characterization and story development are the highlights of the film, and Rajeev Ravi’s skill is on full display there.

As Krishnan, Dulquer Salmaan gave a fantastic performance, and he is definitely growing as an actor. He has done an exceptional job in depicting the many stages of Krishnan’s life. In this video, he wore three distinct styles and easily embodies each one. Vinayakan’s portrayal of Gangan, Krishnan’s close friend, was also outstanding. His portrayal of this guy was outstanding. Manikantan, a theatre performer, is ideal as Ganga’s brother Balan. Actors such as Vinay Fort, P Balachandran, Suraj Venjarammoodu, Sine Tom Chacko, Alencier, Amalda Liz as Rosamma, Shaun Romy as Anitha, Muthumani, Anjali Aneesh Upasana, Manikandan, Soubin Shaheer, Alencier le, etc., have also played their roles flawlessly. Additionally, other minor characters appear for less than a minute but leave an unforgettable mark.

Madhu Neelakandan’s cinematography was one of the highlights of this film, as his shots created the ambiance that the film required to tell its story convincingly. The music composed by John P. Varkey and Vinayakan was also excellent, and the background score was outstanding. Overall, Kammatipaadam is a realistically entertaining film, and fans of such films are in for a treat.

38. Ponthan Mada (1994)

  • Director: T. V. Chandran
  • Stars: Mammootty, Naseeruddin Shah, Sreejaya, Laboni Sarkar, Janardhanan
  • Writter: C. V. Sreeraman
  • Producer: T. Ravindranath
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama
Ponthan Mada (1994) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Ponthan Mada is a 1994 Malayalam film written and directed by T. V. Chandran. The film features Mammootty and Naseeruddin Shah in starring roles. It is based on two short stories by C. V. Sreeraman, Ponthan Mada and Sheema Thampuran. The film won four National Film Awards, including the prize for Best Actor for Mammotty. In addition, it received the Kerala State Picture Award for the best second film. This is Naseeruddin Shah’s sole Malayalam-language film.

One of the greatest narratives ever told in Malayalam film! Equally affected by the acting performance.

As always, Mammootty effortlessly transformed into the role, displaying unrivaled naturalism in his performance. The actor, Nasurudheen Shah, played the role with his typical charisma and grace. The story and narration are the most compelling aspects of the film, compliments to the brilliant filmmaker, TV Chandra. Kudos for the presence of surrealist characteristics. There may be some editing issues, but that is because the film is from a bygone era, and it is quite reasonable!! The sensation of having read a fantastic novel lingers after viewing the film. I adored it, and I appreciate the film much!

39. Innale (1989)

  • Director: Padmarajan
  • Stars: Shobana, Jayaram, Srividya, Suresh Gopi
  • Writter: Padmarajan
  • Producer: A. B. R Productions
  • Music: Perumbavoor G. Raveendranath(Songs), Mohan Sithara(BGM)
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama, Romance
Innale (1989) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

P. Padmarajan penned and directed the 1990 Malayalam film Innale, a psychological drama. A. B. R. Productions produced the film. Suresh Gopi, Jayaram, Shobhana, and Srividya play leading parts. Perumbavoor G. Raveendranath penned the film’s original songs, while Mohan Sithara composed the film’s score. Venu was in charge of cinematography.

In the film, a girl (Shobana) is found as the injured victim of a bus accident, suffering from memory loss and unable to recall her prior life or herself. She afterward falls in love with Mr. Sharath Menon (Jayram), who assists her in adjusting to her new life. However, things become problematic when others from her old life begin seeking for her.

“Innale” is a film that exemplifies the maturity of Malayalam cinema in a distinct manner. Padmarajan depicts the life and trauma of a lovely girl who develops amnesia following a bus accident on a pilgrimage. He has sensuously and successfully filmed a film with a plot that, if handled improperly, may have been deemed a “commercial stunt.” The film emphasizes the beauty and ferocity of love that develops during adversity. In all likelihood, “Innale” is an immaculately filmed Malayalam cinematic masterpiece, and the viewer will vicariously feel Maya’s helplessness. Shobana, a renowned dancer and award-winning national actress, perfects her performance as Maya, an unfortunate woman who does not know her background. Her transformation into a girl who ultimately accepts reality and becomes optimistic is one of the most affecting depictions of human suffering, helplessness, love, sacrifice, and optimism. Never ever overlook this.

40. The Master Carpenter aka Perumthachan(1991)

  • Director: Ajayan
  • Stars: Manoj K. Jayan, Monisha, Prashanth, Thilakan
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: G. Jayakumar
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama, History
The Master Carpenter aka Perumthachan(1991) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

The 1991 Indian Malayalam-language period drama film Perumthachan aka The Master Carpenter was directed by Ajayan and scripted by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. It is based on the Keralan legend Perumthachan of the Parayi Petta Panthirukulam. The generation divide is examined through the connection between a competent carpenter and his son who breaks with tradition. The film was awarded both the National Film Award for Best First Film by a Director and the Filmfare Award for Best Malayalam Film. It was nominated for the Golden Leopard Award and is now regarded as a Malayalam film classic.

Raman Perumthachan is unsurpassed as a wood-carver, sculptor, and architect and his creations were so exquisite that he was regarded as a reincarnation of the architect of the gods. Though brought up as a carpenter, he was alluded to be the son of a Brahmin. In one part of the film, he smiles approvingly when his son suggests that perhaps the made up story about his Brahmanical antecedents was a ruse by the upper castes to lay claim to some of his ability and prestige. He falls in love with the royal household’s daughter, ultimately leading to his demise. The ravishing beauty of the Brahmin householder’s wife Bhargavi Thampuratti catches his imagination, and he feels drawn to her.

This apparent attraction leads to a minor misunderstanding towards Perumtachan in the mind of the Thampuran. Consequently, he is not allowed to complete the work on the idol to his satisfaction. He leaves the place disillusioned. Bhargavi Thamburatti’s daughter Kunhikkavu agrees to her late mother’s wish, but Kannan, not Perumthachan, is called up to do the work. The young man goes to the household of the same Brahmin for whom his father had carved the image of the goddess years ago. In an ironical repetition of his father’s experience, he falls in love, and a scandal erupts in the royal household. Seeing that the scandal is slowly destroying his old patron, the father of the girl tries to cajole his son to walk away.

41. Kamaladalam (1992)

  • Director: Sibi Malayil
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Parvathi, Monisha, Vineeth
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Mohanlal
  • Music: Raveendran (Songs), Johnson (Score)
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama, Musical
Kamaladalam (1992) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Kamaladalam is a 1992 Indian Malayalam-language musical drama film scripted by A. K. Lohithadas and directed by Sibi Malayil, starring Mohanlal, Murali, Vineeth, Nedumudi Venu, Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair, Monisha, Parvathy Jayaram and Sukumari. Mohanlal’s business Pranavam Arts produced the film, which featured original songs composed by Raveendran and a background score by Johnson. The story was inspired by the K. Viswanath-directed Telugu film Sagara Sangamam.

Fantastic film. A masterpiece of malayalam film. This film demonstrates why Mohanlal is referred to as a complete actor. He assumes the position of classical dance instructor. He is intoxicated, and he had a very dark past. Mohanlal’s performance as a classical dancer leads us to believe he was aware of this. This much is his naturalness. This is an outstanding work.

42. Nirmalyam (1973)

  • Director: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Stars: P.J. Anthony, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Kottarakkara Sridharan Nair, Sankaradi
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Music: K. Raghavan(Songs), M. B. Sreenivasan(Score)
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Drama
)Nirmalyam (1973) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Nirmalyam is a 1973 Indian Malayalam-language film written and directed by M. T. Vasudevan Nair, with P. J. Antony, Sumithra, and Ravi Menon in the leading roles. In 1974, P. J. Antony won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his role at this film as a velichappadu (an oracle or intermediary between the Goddess and the devotee in a Hindu temple). In 1974, the film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film as well as the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film. It is one of Malayalam cinema’s classics.

Regrettably, few people recall this magnificent work when listing great masterpieces of Indian film. It is India’s response to Bergman’s “Winter Light,” in my opinion. Like Bergman, M T Vasudevan Nair wrote and directed a film about a religious guy who questions God. In one film, the protagonist commits suicide after spitting at God, whereas in the other, he continues his career with a dubious sense of restored faith.

Nirmalayam earned the highest national honours but never gained the international spotlight, primarily due to the subject matter (“Winter Light” also never won awards, despite being Bergman’s personal favorite before “Fanny and Alexander”). As its substance is global in a broader sense of secular religious sensitivities, it requires stronger marketing.

The majority of Asian spectators like the film’s appealing performance (theatrical realism as opposed to the refined, quiet realism of the Bergman actors), which makes the film captivating. Yet, the theatrical performance was not over the top, and the late PJ Anthony received greater plaudits in Kerala than the rest of India for a progressively forgotten performance.

The film’s storyline (with an unforgettable finale), sound design, and art direction are all equally impressive. It was a fantastic start for a filmmaker, but regrettably, this accomplishment has been overshadowed by less competent Indian filmmakers with superior marketing.

43. Aparan (1988)

  • Director: P. Padmarajan
  • Stars: Jayaram, Shobana, Madhu, Sukumari
  • Writter: P. Padmarajan
  • Producer: Ajitha
  • Music: Johnson
  • Rating: 8.0
  • Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Aparan (1988) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Based on his short tale of the same name, Aparan is a 1988 Indian Malayalam-language mystery psychological thriller film written and directed by P. Padmarajan. It stars Jayaram, Mukesh, Shobana, Parvathy Jayaram, and Madhu. The film is about mistaken identification and the difficulties an innocent young guy must face in his life. The film was Jayaram’s debut, and it was a critical and commercial triumph. The film was recreated as Manidhan Marivittan in Tamil (1989). In Malayalam cinema, this film is regarded as a cult masterpiece.

The film marked the debut of the great actor Jayaram, who subsequently appeared in a number of excellent films in sensitive and humorous roles. Here, he portrays the character of a jobless graduate desperately seeking employment. During a coffee break during one of the several interviews he attends, he is confronted by a few individuals and the police who feel he has defrauded them out of their hard-earned cash. The uncertainty is cleared only when the police inspector (Mukesh, in a minor role) recognizes him as an old acquaintance. The fact remains, however, that someone who resembles Viswanathan is on the run from the law. Viswanathan returns home without informing his parents of what occurred.

Nonetheless, he receives an appointment in the city where he was misdirected. He is able to develop a romantic relationship with Ambili, a female who works in his office, after assuming the position of the chief executive (Shobana). But then, his demonic doppelganger appears. The film then continues in an engrossing manner till the dramatic finish.

In typical Padmarajan fashion, the picture has been produced in a very controlled and precise manner, devoid of extraneous flourishes. The manner in which the guy copes with his handicap compels sympathy. In his debut film, Jayaram is outstanding, and the supporting cast (which includes everyone else) is also superb. In the film, his future wife Parvathy portrays his sister, while renowned actor Madhu portrays his father.

It is a way to return for people who grew up on a steady diet of Padmarajan, Bharatan, et al. films. For the current generation of Malayalam movie enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to learn about the glory days of Malayalam cinema and see the blossoming of one of our greatest talents, Jayaram.

44. Chemmeen (1965)

  • Director: Ramu Kariat
  • Stars: Sathyan, Sheela, Madhu, Kottarakkara Sridharan Nair
  • Writter: Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai
  • Producer: Babu Ismail Sait
  • Music: Salil Chowdhury
  • Rating: 7.8
  • Genre: Drama, Romance
Chemmeen (1965) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Chemmeen is a 1965 Indian Malayalam-language romance film based on Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai’s novel of the same name. S. L. Puram Sadanandan translated it into a script directed by Ramu Kariat and produced by Babu Ismail Sait under the brand Kanmani Films. The film stars Sheela as Karuthamma, Madhu as Pareekutty, Kottarakkara Sreedharan Nair as Chembankunju, and Sathyan as Palani.

The film’s premise is a popular folklore about chastity among the fisherman communities in the southern Indian state of Kerala’s coastline. If a married fisherwoman commits adultery while her husband is at sea, the Sea Goddess (Kadalamma, literally “Mother Sea”) will devour him. Marcus Bartley and U. Rajagopal were responsible for the cinematography, while Hrishikesh Mukherjee and K. D. George edited the film. Salil Chowdhury wrote the original score and songs, with lyrics by Vayalar and songs featuring the voices of K. J. Yesudas, P. Leela, Manna Dey, and Santha P. Nair.

45. Vaishali (1988)

  • Director: Ramu Kariat
  • Stars: Sanjay Mitra, Suparna Anand, Geetha, Babu Antony
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: Atlas Ramachandran
  • Music: Ravi
  • Rating: 7.8
  • Genre: Musical, Drama, Romance
_Vaishali (1988) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Bharathan directed and edited the 1989 Indian Malayalam-language period drama film Vaisali. It was an adaptation of a sub-story from the epic Mahabharata recounted by Vedavyasa to King Yudhishtira. It was produced by M. M. Ramachandran and authored by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. Vaisali, a devadasi girl, was tasked with seducing Rishyashrungan, the son of Mahirshi Vibhandakan, and taking him to Chambapuri in order to execute a mahayagam to bring rain.

Even within the Great Epic, an undiscovered story performed a miracle on the silver screen. The film’s compelling plot and dialogue made it an anomaly in the Malayalam film industry.

46. Kauravar (1992)

  • Director: Joshiy
  • Stars: Mammootty, Thilakan, Babu Antony, Raghu
  • Writter: A. K. Lohithadas
  • Producer: Sasidharan Pillai
  • Music: S. P. Venkatesh
  • Rating: 7.8
  • Genre: Crime, Drama
Kauravar (1992) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Kauravar is a 1992 Indian Malayalam-language gangster action thriller film directed by Joshiy and written by Lohithadas. The film stars Mammootty, Vishnuvardhan, Thilakan, Murali, Anju, Babu Antony, and Bheeman Raghu. With Mohan Babu, the film was remade in Telugu as Khaidi Garu. It was also adapted in Kannada as Devasura in 2001, starring Devraj and B. C. Patil under the title Devasura. S. P. Venkatesh composed the musical score and the songs.

The relationship between a convicted criminal and the officer responsible for his capture was favourable. The convict desires vengeance against the officer, but his daughter, who the officer raised as one of his children, prevents him from doing so. Finally, love triumphs over hatred, and the convict turns on his comrades to avoid their vengeance against the officer and his family.

47. Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha (2009)

  • Director: Ranjith
  • Stars: Mammootty, Mythili, Shweta Menon, Gowri Munjal
  • Writter: T. P. Rajeevan
  • Producer: A.V.Anoop, Maha Subair
  • Music: Sharreth, Bijibal
  • Rating: 7.7
  • Genre: Crime, Drama, History
_Paleri Manikyam Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha (2009) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha is a 2009 Indian Malayalam-language mystery film written and directed by Ranjith, with Mammootty, Shwetha Menon, and Mythili in the starring roles. It is based on T. P. Rajeevan’s novel of the same name, which recounts the first recorded murder case in Kerala. In the film, Mammooty portrays three characters. The film marked Mythili’s cinematic debut. Through this film, Ranjith also introduced approximately thirty Malayalam theatre performers.

The film received four Kerala State Film Awards, including the award for Best Film. This film earned Mammootty his fifth Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for his performances as Ahmed Haji, Haridas, and Khalid Ahmed. This film also earned Shweta Menon her first Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress.

The casting was so flawless that no one noticed that the majority of cast members were newcomers. Mammootty, like fine wine, improves with age, not only in his performance but also in his selection of characters.

Only one character, Ahamed Haji, is the focal point of the entire film. The film’s true beauty is that Ahamed Haji has only 5 or 6 scenes. His personality is established through the voices of others. There were minor deviations from the novel, but they were acceptable. In any case, this is Renjith’s finest work to date.

48. Neelakkuyil (1954)

  • Director: P. Bhaskaran
  • Stars: J.A.R. Anand, P. Bhaskaran, P.J. Cherian, Manavalan Joseph
  • Writter: Uroob
  • Producer: T. K. Pareekutty
  • Music: K. Raghavan
  • Rating: 7.7
  • Genre: Drama
Neelakkuyil (1954) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Neelakuyil is a 1954 Malayalam film jointly directed by P. Bhaskaran and Ramu Kariat. It is a neorealistic melodrama based on a narrative by Uroob, who also co-wrote the screenplay and language with P. Bhaskaran. It stars Sathyan, Miss Kumari, Prema, P. Bhaskaran and Master Vipin.

The film’s message is about giving humanity precedence over socioeconomic standing, through a straightforward narrative with supporting characters that lend colour to the story’s theme. The true genius behind the outcome is P Kuttikrishnan’s (Uroob) weaving of these threads into this plot.

Notable screenplay and acting by the renowned poet P Bhaskaran, who plays the conscience keeper. Sathyan plays his role really well, especially the remorse that transforms into agitation in the film’s final half-hour.

If an outsider views the film, they would gain an understanding of the Communist ideology in Kerala and why it has such deep roots there. Unfortunately, the state did not follow Narayana Guru’s advice and instead adopted ineffective and alien Marxist policies. This swung the pendulum to the other extreme of Hinduism, resulting in religious conversions that caused identity loss and a lack of industry that posed an economic threat.

49. Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (2009)

  • Director: T. Hariharan
  • Stars: Mammootty, Mohanlal, Sarath Kumar, Manoj K. Jayan
  • Writter: M. T. Vasudevan Nair
  • Producer: Gokulam Gopalan
  • Music: Ilaiyaraaja
  • Rating: 7.6
  • Genre: Action, Biography, Drama
_Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (2009) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja is an Indian Malayalam-language epic historical drama film from 2009 based on the biography of Pazhassi Raja, an 18th-century king who fought against the East India Company. The film was directed by Hariharan and scripted by M. T. Vasudevan Nair. Gokulam Gopalan was the producer.

The film begins with the British’s decision to impose severe taxes on the Rajahs’ subjects. Pazhassi, a member of the royal dynasty of Kottayam in the Thalassery district, opposes this and becomes the first ruler to battle against them. With the help of Edachena Kunkan (Sarath Kumar) and Kaithery Ambu (Suresh Krishna), Pazhassi, who is forced to flee his palace, initiates a well prepared counterattack. He has the full support of the kurichiers and tribal people, led by Thalakkal Chandhu (Manoj K. Jayan) and Neeli (Padmapriya), who employ Guirella Warfare techniques against the British. The British suffered severe setbacks in a number of conflicts. Pazhassi was able to surprise the British with his tactics, but traitors such as Pazhayaveedam Chandhu helped the British capture each of Pazhassi’s soldiers in the closing stages of the conflict.

As Pazhassi Raja, Mammooty has provided a beautiful and seamless portrayal, making him as human as possible. Sharath Kumar delivers a spectacular performance as Kunkan, complete with bravado and swordplay. On the other hand, Kaniha may have performed better. I was not all that impressed. It is possible that Padmapriya’s character was the first of its kind in Malayalam films. She handled the situation admirably, as did Manoj K. Jayan with Thalakkal Chandu. Lalu Alex, Captain Raju, Thilakan, etc., have all performed admirably. It is the English actors who are the worst. They should have cast more qualified actors. The videography was simply outstanding, portraying the splendour of the Malabar Region. The film’s settings, costumes, and lighting did a fantastic job of portraying a bygone age. Ilaiyaraja’s musical score is outstanding. Both the direction and the storyline of the renowned M.T. were excellent. The war sequences were excellent, save for the stunt parts that defied gravity.

50. Narasimham (2000)

  • Director: Shaji Kailas
  • Stars: Mohanlal, Thilakan, Aishwariyaa Bhaskaran, N.F. Varghese
  • Writter: Ranjith
  • Producer: Antony Perumbavoor
  • Music: M. G. Radhakrishnan(Song), C. Rajamani (score)
  • Rating: 7.6
  • Genre: Action, Drama
_Narasimham (2000) Top 50 Best Malayalam Movies

Shaji Kailas and Ranjith wrote and directed the 2000 Indian Malayalam-language action drama Narasimham. Mohanlal plays the lead role in the film, which also features Thilakan, N. F. Varghese, Aishwarya, and Jagathy Sreekumar. Mammootty has a cameo appearance. The film was the inaugural production of Aashirvad Cinemas, founded by Mohanlal’s former driver, Antony Perumbavoor.

Narasimham is an excellent commercially successful film. This film displayed a different side of Mohanlal’s acting abilities. From the beginning to the finale, the audience experiences a range of emotions, including laughter, tears, wrath, and the rushing of blood. Every scene in the film has an impact on the audience. It was exciting to see Mohanlal in a brand-new guise. The tale of this film is the film’s pillar of strength.

Supporting actors such as Thilakan, Aiswarya, and Jagathy are the cherry on top. The part of the villain that the late N.F. Varghese performed is simply outstanding. Shaji Kailas should be thanked for the excellence of this film. M.G Radhakrishnan contributed to the excellence of the songs and background music.


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