List Of Best Malayalam Movies New

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List Of Best Malayalam Movies New

The New Golden Era: A Write-Up on the Best Recent Malayalam Movies

Malayalam cinema has firmly established itself as the powerhouse of Indian storytelling. Over the last two years (2023–2024), the industry has moved beyond just "content-driven" tags to becoming a pan-India phenomenon. The defining characteristic of recent Malayalam films is the seamless blend of rooted, local narratives with high-quality production values and versatile acting.

Where other industries often rely on star power and grandeur, Malayalam cinema relies on the strength of the script. Whether it is a high-stakes survival drama, a quiet character study, or a gripping investigative thriller, the recent output has been consistently stellar.

Here is a curated list of the best new Malayalam movies that define this new wave of excellence.


Quick viewing guide by mood

  • If you want thrill/suspense: Nayattu, Joji, Drishyam 2, C U Soon
  • If you want social realism/drama: The Great Indian Kitchen, Kumbalangi Nights, Kappela, Puzhu
  • If you want big-scale/epic: Malik, Marakkar, Bheeshma Parvam
  • If you want lighter/entertaining: Minnal Murali, Bangalore Days, Charlie

If you want a curated 5-film watchlist based on a theme (crime, family, social critique, or new releases only), tell me which theme and I’ll make one.

(Suggestions for related searches provided.)

The Malayalam film industry, or Mollywood, is currently experiencing a historic "New Wave" defined by high-concept storytelling and global box office success. Following a landmark 2024 and 2025, the industry continues to push boundaries with ambitious thrillers and realistic dramas. Top Malayalam Movies of 2025 & 2026 (Recent Hits)

Based on critical reception and box office performance, these are the standout new releases: BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 - IMDb

The Malayalam film industry, often hailed as the powerhouse of Indian content, continues to redefine cinematic boundaries with its raw realism and technical brilliance. From hard-hitting social dramas to experimental thrillers, the recent slate of releases offers something for every type of cinephile. If you are looking for the best Malayalam movies new to the scene, this list covers the essential titles that have captured both critical acclaim and box office success. Manjummel Boys

One of the biggest triumphs in recent Malayalam cinema history is Manjummel Boys. Based on a harrowing true story, the film follows a group of friends from Kochi who go on a trip to Kodaikanal. Their vacation turns into a nightmare when one of them falls into the infamous Guna Caves. Beyond being a survival thriller, it is a poignant exploration of friendship and human resilience. Its technical perfection and emotional depth make it a mandatory watch. Bramayugam

For fans of folk horror, Bramayugam is a masterpiece. Shot entirely in black and white, the film stars Mammootty in a career-defining performance as a mysterious landlord in a decaying ancestral home. The movie blends Kerala’s traditional folklore with a claustrophobic atmosphere, delivering a chilling experience that focuses on the corrupting nature of power. It is a bold, experimental step for mainstream cinema.

Breaking the streak of intense dramas is Premalu, a refreshing romantic comedy that became a massive hit. Set in Hyderabad, the film explores the lives of young Malayali graduates navigating work, life, and love. Its humor is contemporary, relatable, and genuinely funny. With catchy music and a charming lead cast, it proved that simple stories, when told with heart and wit, still rule the box office. Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life)

A visual epic years in the making, Aadujeevitham is based on Benyamin’s acclaimed novel. Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a transformative performance as Najeeb, an immigrant worker who finds himself enslaved as a goat herder in the Saudi Arabian desert. The film is a grueling yet beautiful portrayal of survival and faith. Its sweeping cinematography and haunting score by A.R. Rahman elevate it to international standards.

Fahadh Faasil reminds audiences why he is a versatile superstar in Aavesham. Playing an eccentric, high-energy gangster named Ranga, he carries this action-comedy on his shoulders. The plot revolves around three college students who seek the help of a local thug to handle their seniors. It is an anarchic, stylish, and wildly entertaining ride that showcases the industry's ability to blend mass appeal with quirkiness. Kishkindha Kaandam

A hidden gem that surprised audiences is Kishkindha Kaandam. This mystery thriller is set in a monkey-inhabited region and revolves around a family harboring deep secrets. It stands out for its tight screenplay and nuanced performances, particularly from Asif Ali and Vijayaraghavan. It is a slow-burn narrative that rewards viewers with a powerful emotional payoff.

The "New Wave" of Malayalam cinema is characterized by its refusal to stick to a single genre. Whether it is the survival tension of Manjummel Boys or the quirky energy of Aavesham, these films prioritize storytelling over star power. If you are updating your watchlist, these titles represent the very best of what Mollywood has to offer right now.

To help you find exactly what you're looking for, please let me know:

Your preferred genre (e.g., crime thriller, lighthearted rom-com, or intense drama)

The streaming platforms you use (e.g., Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar) If you want a list of upcoming releases to watch out for

Malayalam cinema has seen a massive surge in popularity recently, with several "new-age" films breaking box-office records and gaining international acclaim for their technical brilliance and grounded storytelling. Blockbuster Hits (2024–2025)

These films redefined commercial success in Malayalam cinema, with many reaching unprecedented box-office numbers. Manjummel Boys

: A survival thriller based on a true incident at Guna Caves. It became the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time. Bramayugam

: A black-and-white period horror-thriller starring Mammootty. It has been lauded for its "Oscar-level" production design and atmosphere. Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life)

: Prithviraj Sukumaran's long-awaited survival drama based on the famous novel by Benyamin. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

: A recent domestic box-office leader, grossing over ₹180 crores. Critically Acclaimed & Award Winners

These films are noted for their unique narratives and strong performances, particularly those of Mammootty during his current "peak" phase. Kaathal – The Core

: An understated drama exploring sensitive themes like identity and divorce within a political backdrop. Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam

: A surreal drama directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, featuring one of Mammootty's most celebrated recent performances. Ullozhukku

: A poignant family drama that received high praise for its writing and performances by Parvathy Thiruvothu and Urvashi.

: A gritty police procedural thriller with a shocking twist ending, available for streaming on Most Anticipated & Upcoming Releases

Keep an eye on these major titles scheduled for release in mid-to-late 2026. L2: Empuraan : The massive sequel to the blockbuster , starring Mohanlal and directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran. Drishyam 3

: The third installment of the iconic thriller franchise, expected in May 2026.

: Starring Unni Mukundan, this has become one of the most-searched upcoming titles on Google. Where to Watch

Most of these recent hits are available on major streaming platforms: Minnal Murali Aadujeevitham Jana Gana Mana Disney+ Hotstar : Often hosts major commercial hits like Manjummel Boys Bheeshma Parvam : Features experimental cinema like Bramayugam Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam specific genre

The recent landscape of Malayalam cinema is dominated by genre-bending thrillers and high-concept dramas that have gained significant pan-Indian attention. Report on Top Recent Malayalam Cinema (2024–2025)

Malayalam cinema has entered a "golden run" marked by technical brilliance and diverse storytelling. This report highlights the standout performers categorized by their critical and commercial impact. 1. The 2025 Blockbusters

The year 2025 has been characterized by record-breaking commercial successes and the revitalization of superstar careers.


4. 2018: Everyone is a Hero (2023)

Genre: Disaster Drama Director: Jude Anthany Joseph

Representing India at the Oscars, 2018 recounts the devastating Kerala floods of 2018. It weaves together multiple storylines—ranging from a pregnant woman trapped in a house to a former military officer seeking redemption—converging during the rescue operations.

Why it stands out: Disaster movies often fall into the trap of prioritizing VFX over emotion. 2018 does the opposite. The visual effects are used only to enhance the narrative, while the focus remains on the indomitable human spirit. It showcases unity over heroism, highlighting how ordinary people, fishermen, and the armed forces came together to save lives. It is an emotional rollercoaster that celebrates the resilience of Kerala.

6. Kaathal – The Core (2023)

Director: Jeo Baby
Genre: Social Drama

In a conservative village, Mathew (Mammootty) is a respected bank manager and former local politician. He lives a quiet, unhappy life with his wife Omana (Jyothika). When Omana files for divorce, the reason is shocking to the community: she claims Mathew is gay and their marriage is a sham.

Kaathal – The Core is a landmark film in Indian cinema. It treats its subject with extraordinary tenderness and nuance. Mammootty’s performance as a closeted gay man is a masterclass in internalized pain. The film doesn’t villainize anyone—not the wife, not the husband, not even the homophobic villagers. Instead, it asks painful questions about duty, love, authenticity, and the cost of social acceptance. A brave, beautiful, and essential film.

8. Kaathal – The Core (2023)

  • Genre: Social Drama / LGBTQ+
  • Director: Jeo Baby
  • Why it’s best: A landmark film where Mammootty plays a closeted gay man married to a woman (Jyothika). It handles a sensitive subject with dignity, focusing on loneliness and societal pressure.
  • Highlight: The silent tear on Mammootty’s face during the court scene.
  • Verdict: Brave, necessary, and heartbreaking.

1. Manjummel Boys (2024)

  • Genre: Survival Thriller / Disaster
  • Director: Chidambaram
  • Why it’s best: A record-breaking blockbuster based on a true incident from 2006. The film masterfully builds tension about a group of friends trapped in the infamous Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen) in Kodaikanal.
  • Highlight: The exceptional use of the cult song “Kanmani Anbodu” and claustrophobic cinematography.
  • Verdict: A masterclass in tension and friendship.

The Bigger Picture

What makes this list of "new" Malayalam movies so remarkable is not just their individual quality, but the system that produces them. These are films made with modest budgets, unknown actors (alongside legends), and scripts that prioritize character over star image. A veteran like Mammootty plays a gay man, a sorcerer, and a amnesiac father in the span of 12 months. Fahadh Faasil plays a psychotic gangster who is also a lonely child.

This is an industry that has broken the formula. There is no "typical" Malayalam film anymore. Instead, there are only good stories, told well. For anyone tired of predictable, star-driven blockbusters, the new wave of Malayalam cinema is a breath of fresh, intoxicating air. Start watching, and you’ll quickly realize: you have a lot of catching up to do.

The Malayalam film industry is currently undergoing a creative renaissance, blending high-concept thrillers with grounded, emotional storytelling. The following are the best and most notable recent Malayalam movies released between 2024 and 2026. Critically Acclaimed Hits (2024–2025)

These films have dominated both box office discussions and critical reviews for their unique narratives. Manjummel Boys

(2024): A massive commercial success and the highest-grossing Malayalam film to date. It is a survivor thriller based on a real-life incident where a group of friends attempts a daring rescue at the Guna Caves. Aavesham

(2024): Starring Fahadh Faasil, this action-comedy follows three engineering students in Bangalore who seek the help of a local gangster named Ranga to settle a feud. Bramayugam

(2024): A black-and-white folk-horror film featuring Mammootty. It explores themes of power and greed within an ancient, mysterious mansion. Kishkindha Kaandam

(2024): A suspenseful drama set in a village inhabited by monkeys, focusing on strange disturbances that a newlywed couple and forest officials must uncover. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

(2025): One of the top-grossing films of 2025, it follows a young woman on a mysterious mission in Bengaluru. Rekhachithram

(2025): A crime thriller where a suspended police officer tries to find redemption by solving a 40-year-old murder case. Show more Top Rated & Popular Releases (2025–2026)

The industry continues its momentum with highly anticipated sequels and experimental genres. Thudarum

(2025): A drama featuring Mohanlal as a humble taxi driver in a quiet hill town who must prove the depth of his devotion to his aging car when tested by fate. Vaazha II: Biopic of a Billion Bros

(2026): A sequel to the popular 2024 film, this installment continues the journey of self-discovery for a group of friends facing societal pressure. L2: Empuraan

(2025): The highly anticipated sequel to Lucifer, starring Mohanlal as Stephen Nedumpally, a global crime syndicate leader. Ponman

(2025): A social drama involving a gold dealer who finds himself in danger after a village wedding. Aadu 3

(2026): The third part of the popular comedy franchise, following Shaji Pappan and his gang across multiple timelines. Show more Notable Genre Explorations The 10 Best Malayalam Films of 2025, Ranked - Filmy Sasi

List of highest-grossing Malayalam films - Wikipedia Table_title: India Table_content: header: | Rank | Title | Domestic gross | Year | row: | Rank: 1 | Title: Lokah Chapter 1: Chandr... All We Imagine as Light

For details, mail to Get the Lists of TOP-10 Films of Previous Years on IMDb at: https://www.imdb.com/us... All We Imagine as Light Bramayugam

Well, I watched the recent Malayalam magnum opus movie- Bramayugam Its indeed one of the best Malayalam movies of recent times and... Bramayugam

The Malayalam film industry has experienced a significant surge in both critical acclaim and commercial success from 2024 through 2025. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra made history in 2025 as the first Malayalam film to surpass the ₹300 crore mark worldwide. Other major highlights include the global success of All We Imagine as Light, which won the Grand Prix at Cannes, and the record-breaking survival thriller Manjummel Boys. Top Rated & Critically Acclaimed (2024–2025)

These films have been singled out by critics and audiences for their exceptional storytelling and performances.

All We Imagine as Light (2024): A poetic tale following three women in Mumbai, recognized globally for its symbolic storytelling.

Kishkindha Kaandam (2024): A mystery thriller set in a monkey-inhabited village, widely praised for its technically perfect execution and gripping script.

Bramayugam (2024): A period folk-horror thriller starring Mammootty, noted for its unique sound design and atmospheric dread.

Rekhachithram (2025): A mystery thriller involving a 40-year-old murder case, which became a significant commercial hit.

Ponman (2025): A feel-good drama about a gold dealer, described as a "masterclass" in portraying human emotions.

Ullozhukku (2024): An intense drama exploring secrets between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law during a flood. Blockbusters & Box Office Hits

Malayalam cinema has reached new commercial heights, with several films crossing the ₹100 crore milestone. Movie Title Worldwide Gross Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra ₹300–304 crore L2: Empuraan ₹268 crore Manjummel Boys ₹242.3 crore Thudarum ₹238 crore The Goat Life (Aadujeevitham) ₹160 crore Aavesham ₹156 crore Sarvam Maya ₹153 crore Premalu ₹136 crore

Watch these videos to explore the top-ranked Malayalam films from 2024 to 2026, featuring box office breakdowns and critical reviews: Top 20 Malayalam Movies of 2025 | Best Mollywood Films ... 296 views · 3 months ago YouTube · SIJOse Collections Most Awaited Malayalam Movies of 2026 125K views · 2 months ago YouTube · Raunaq Mangottil 15 Greatest Malayalam Films of the Last 15 Years 131K views · 5 months ago YouTube · Raunaq Mangottil Ranking 2024 Malayalam Films from Best to Worse (Tier List) 15K views · 1 year ago YouTube · Nona Prince Top 10 Highest-Rated Malayalam Movies | Manjummel boys ... 2K views · 9 months ago YouTube · IMDb Recent Genre Highlights

The industry continues to diversify into new genres while maintaining its focus on grounded storytelling.

Supernatural & Fantasy: Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra successfully introduced a female-led superhero universe rooted in Kerala folklore. Sarvam Maya featured a cynical musician becoming a village priest amidst ghostly encounters.

Thriller & Police Dramas: Officer on Duty (2025) and Ronth (2025) were well-received for their realistic, slow-burn portrayals of police work and night patrols.

Comedy & Rom-Com: Premalu (2024) remains a favorite for its fresh take on modern romance, with a sequel planned for 2025. Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil (2024) also emerged as a major comedy hit. List of highest-grossing Malayalam films - Wikipedia

Table_title: India Table_content: header: | Rank | Title | Domestic gross | Year | row: | Rank: 1 | Title: Lokah Chapter 1: Chandr... BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 - IMDb

BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 * 1. Lokah Chapter One: Chandra. 2025. 2h 31m. Not Rated. 7.6 (21K) Rate. Mark as watched. Chandra, ... All We Imagine as Light

For details, mail to Get the Lists of TOP-10 Films of Previous Years on IMDb at: https://www.imdb.com/us... All We Imagine as Light Bramayugam

Well, I watched the recent Malayalam magnum opus movie- Bramayugam Its indeed one of the best Malayalam movies of recent times and... Bramayugam list of best malayalam movies new

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But for January 2025, Rekhachithram has emerged to be the top performer – scoring both in terms of box office numbers and audience... Rekhachithram

The Malayalam movie Premalu, which was released in February, has won everyone's hearts. The movie received great reviews from the ...

Released in theaters on the auspicious occasion of Vishu, 'Aavesham ( Aavesham (2024 ) ' made a promising start at the box office ... Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

Upon its theatrical release, Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra opened to highly positive reviews and went on to become the highest-grossing... Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra Manjummel Boys

Manjummel Boys emerged as one of the biggest Malayalam hits in recent years, earning widespread acclaim and strong box office perf... Manjummel Boys

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Sookshmadarshini is a superbly written fun thriller that is a must-watch. In fact, it's possibly one of the best Malayalam films o... Sookshmadarshini Kishkindha Kaandam

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Table_title: Box office collection Table_content: header: | Rank | Title | Production company | Worldwide gross | row: | Rank: 1 | 2025 HIGHEST GROSSING MALAYALAM MOVIES - IMDb

2025 HIGHEST GROSSING MALAYALAM MOVIES * LOKAH 121.80cr. * THUDARUM 118.80cr. * EMPURAAN 85.70cr. * SARVAM MAYA 79cr* * HRIDAYAPOO... List of Malayalam films of 2025 - Wikipedia

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So here is my list of the 10 best Malayalam films of the year, ranked in reverse order: * Rekhachithram. Rekhachithram might be ad... Filmy Sasi List of Malayalam films of 2024 - Wikipedia

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in the previous. videos we saw the top 10 Tamil movies of 2024. now it is time to see the top 10 Malala movies of 2024. before get... YouTube·Peter MaaMaa Year Ender 2025: Top 10 Malayalam Highest Grossing ...

Year Ender 2025: Top 10 Malayalam Highest Grossing Movies Of The Year * Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra - ₹303.2 Crore. * L2: Empuraan- ₹...

Recent Releases (2015-2022)

  1. Angamaly Diaries (2017): A crime drama directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, starring Aditi Prabhudeva and Ashif Ali.
  2. Sudani from Nigeria (2018): A sports drama directed by Abrid Shine, starring Soubin Shahir and Samuel Babu.
  3. Premam (2015): A romantic comedy directed by Alphonse Putharen, starring Nivin Pauly and Sai Pallavi.
  4. Take Off (2017): A thriller directed by Abrid Shine, starring Dileep and Biju Menon.
  5. Sudani (2019): A sports drama directed by Abrid Shine, starring Soubin Shahir and Nisha Jayan.
  6. Kerala Story (2022): A drama directed by Siju Krishna, starring Aditi Prabhudeva and Shane Nigi.
  7. Hala (2021): A coming-of-age drama directed by Tharun Moopala, starring Randeep Roy and Sanjana Sanghi.

Critically Acclaimed Movies

  1. The Great Indian Kitchen (2021): A drama directed by Jeo Baby, exploring the life of a domestic worker.
  2. The Son (2020): A drama directed by Sreehari Nandan, dealing with the complexities of family relationships.
  3. Insha'Allah (2019): A drama directed by Ameer Neelakandan, exploring the lives of two individuals.

Awards and Recognition

Many Malayalam movies have received national and international recognition, including:

  1. Sudani from Nigeria: Received the Best Film award at the 2018 Kerala Film Critics Awards.
  2. The Great Indian Kitchen: Won the Best Film award at the 2021 Kerala Film Critics Awards and the 2021 Asian Film Awards.
  3. Angamaly Diaries: Received the Best Film award at the 2017 Kerala Film Critics Awards.

Emerging Trends

The Malayalam film industry has witnessed an influx of new talent, both on-screen and off-screen. The emergence of new production houses, such as Dinesh Panthini and Vashishtha Films, has provided opportunities for innovative storytelling and fresh perspectives.

Themes and Topics

Malayalam movies often explore themes and topics relevant to contemporary society, including:

  1. Social issues: Movies like The Great Indian Kitchen and Insha'Allah tackle pressing social issues, such as domestic workers' rights and communal harmony.
  2. Sports: Movies like Sudani from Nigeria and Sudani highlight the achievements of athletes and the importance of sports in shaping lives.

The Malayalam film industry continues to grow, pushing boundaries and exploring new themes. The recent movies listed above showcase the industry's evolving narrative and emerging talent. As the industry continues to produce innovative and thought-provoking content, it is likely to remain a significant player in Indian cinema. The New Golden Era: A Write-Up on the

Malayalam cinema is currently experiencing a "3.0" new wave, characterized by high-concept storytelling and increased global reach. Below are stories of some of the best new and highly-rated Malayalam movies from 2024 and 2025. 1. Manjummel Boys (2024)

Based on a harrowing real-life incident from 2006, this survival thriller became a massive cultural phenomenon.

The Story: A group of friends from Manjummel, Kochi, take a vacation to Kodaikanal. On a whim, they explore the restricted Guna Caves—notorious as the "Devil’s Kitchen". Disaster strikes when one friend, Subhash, falls into a 300-foot deep crevice. The Conflict

: While local police and fire services are reluctant to enter the dangerous pit, the "boys" refuse to leave their friend behind. The Climax

: In a legendary display of brotherhood, one of the friends, Kuttan, volunteers to be lowered into the pitch-black pit on a rope to find Subhash, leading to a miraculous rescue that explores themes of secular faith and human resilience. 2. (2023/2024)

Winner of three National Film Awards, including Best Feature Film, this is a gripping chamber drama that functions as a "whodunnit" with deep social commentary.

The Story: Anjali is the sole female member of a 13-person theater troupe. After an after-party following a performance, Anjali is sexually harassed by one of the men while she is asleep.

The Conflict: The group convenes to decide on a course of action. What begins as a unanimous pledge to expel the perpetrator quickly dissolves into a web of lies, ego, and self-interest as the men prioritize their own reputations and ambitions over justice for Anjali.

The Twist: The film utilizes the "Rashomon effect," where different versions of the night emerge, eventually revealing the collective hypocrisy of the group rather than focusing solely on the identity of the culprit. 3. (2024)

A lighthearted romantic comedy that became a major box-office hit, set against the backdrop of Hyderabad.

The Story: Sachin, an aimless graduate planning to move to the UK, meets Reenu at a wedding and falls in love at first sight.

The Conflict: Reenu is a confident IT professional who wants a "mature" partner, while Sachin is struggling and arguably immature. He is also competing with Aadhi, Reenu's arrogant work "bestie" who secretly likes her.

The Resolution: After a series of hilarious misunderstandings and a chaotic chase involving hired thugs, Reenu realizes she misses Sachin and confesses her feelings. The movie ends with the two committing to a long-distance relationship as Sachin departs for his studies. 4. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra (2025)

Marking a shift toward big-budget "superhero" and folklore-inspired cinema, this 2025 release became one of the industry's highest-grossing films.

The Story: Chandra, a young woman, arrives in Bengaluru on a secret mission. Her neighbor, Sunny, becomes intrigued by her and attempts to solve the mystery of who she truly is.

The Journey: The two are thrust into an unexpected adventure that draws on Malayalam folklore involving supernatural elements like vampires and goblins. It is widely recognized as one of the first major female-led superhero films in the industry. 5. The Goat Life (Aadujeevitham, 2024)

A poignant survival drama based on the famous novel by Benyamin.

The Story: Najeeb, an Indian migrant worker, travels to Saudi Arabia with dreams of a better life. Instead, he is kidnapped and forced into slavery as a goat herder in the middle of a vast, desolate desert.

The Struggle: The film depicts his harrowing years of isolation and physical torture as he loses his sense of humanity, eventually attempting a perilous escape through the desert. BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 - IMDb

List of Best Malayalam Movies New: A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Malayalam Cinema

Malayalam cinema, also known as Mollywood, has been gaining immense popularity in recent years, thanks to its thought-provoking storylines, memorable characters, and outstanding performances. The industry has produced some incredible films that have not only resonated with the Malayali audience but have also made a mark at the national and international levels. If you're a fan of Malayalam movies or looking to explore the world of Mollywood, you're in the right place. Here's a comprehensive list of the best Malayalam movies new, showcasing the latest and greatest in Malayalam cinema.

2020 and Beyond: The New Wave of Malayalam Cinema

The year 2020 marked a significant turning point for Malayalam cinema, with many films pushing the boundaries of storytelling and exploring new themes. Here are some of the best Malayalam movies new, released in 2020 and later:

  1. Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020): Directed by Aadhavan, this film stars Biju Menon and Jai as two unlikely friends who get caught up in a series of events. Ayyappanum Koshiyum is a thrilling drama that explores the complexities of human relationships.
  2. Drishyam 2 (2021): The sequel to the 2013 hit Drishyam, this film directed by Abhijith Joseph, once again brings together Mohanlal and Meena. The movie follows the story of a family dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event.
  3. The Great Indian Kitchen (2021): This drama film, directed by Jeo Baby, premiered at the Ottawa International Film Festival and received critical acclaim. The movie explores the themes of patriarchy, marriage, and family dynamics.
  4. Gulabi (2021): Directed by Vinayan, this film stars Aswathy Manoharan and Suresh Gopi. Gulabi is a heartwarming story about a young woman's journey to become a successful entrepreneur.

Best Malayalam Movies New: A Mix of Genres

Malayalam cinema has always been known for its versatility, with films spanning various genres, from drama and thriller to comedy and horror. Here are some more best Malayalam movies new that showcase the diversity of Mollywood:

  1. Nammal (2021): Directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, this film stars Mammootty and Janhvi Kapoor. Nammal is a supernatural drama that tells the story of a family dealing with paranormal activities.
  2. Hariyam (2021): This film, directed by Jibu Jacob, stars Arjun and Biju Menon. Hariyam is a thriller about a group of friends who get caught up in a series of mysterious events.
  3. Love Mocktail (2020): Directed by Dileesh Pothan, this film stars Vishnu Vinish and Aswathy Manoharan. Love Mocktail is a romantic comedy that explores the ups and downs of relationships.
  4. Anveshanam (2021): Directed by Sanu John Varghese, this film stars Manoj K. Jayan and Bhavya Gandhi. Anveshanam is a comedy-drama that follows the story of a man searching for his missing wife.

Critically Acclaimed Malayalam Movies New

Many Malayalam films have received critical acclaim in recent years, with some even winning national and international awards. Here are some critically acclaimed best Malayalam movies new:

  1. Sudani from Nigeria (2019): Directed by Ali Fazal, this film stars Soubin Shahir and Siju Wilson. Sudani from Nigeria received a National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam.
  2. Take Off (2017): Directed by Fayyad Salem, this film stars Manushi Chhillar and Kiran Kumar. Take Off received a National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam.
  3. Chembaruthi (2019): Directed by Arvind Babbal, this film stars Arjun and Aswathy Manoharan. Chembaruthi received critical acclaim for its unique storyline and performances.

Where to Watch: Streaming Platforms and Theaters

The best Malayalam movies new are available on various streaming platforms, including:

  1. Amazon Prime Video: Offers a wide range of Malayalam films, including Ayyappanum Koshiyum and Drishyam 2.
  2. Disney+ Hotstar: Features a collection of Malayalam movies, including The Great Indian Kitchen and Gulabi.
  3. ZEE5: Offers a selection of Malayalam films, including Nammal and Love Mocktail.

You can also catch the best Malayalam movies new in theaters, as many films are released on the big screen.

Conclusion

The best Malayalam movies new showcase the incredible talent and creativity of Mollywood. From thought-provoking dramas to thrilling thrillers and heartwarming comedies, there's something for everyone in the world of Malayalam cinema. This list provides a comprehensive guide to the latest and greatest in Malayalam movies, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the best of Mollywood. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the best of Malayalam cinema!

Here’s a curated list of the best new Malayalam movies (released in the last 2–3 years, up to 2025) that have garnered critical acclaim and audience praise for their storytelling, performances, and originality.


The Gentle Narratives

One of the signatures of the new wave is the "slice-of-life" genre—films where the stakes are personal, not global.

4. Premalu (2024) Starring Naslen K. Gafoor, Mamitha Baiju

A coming-of-age romantic comedy that feels fresh despite treading familiar ground. Set in Hyderabad, it captures the anxieties of post-college life, unrequited love, and the confusion of early adulthood. The dialogue is sharp, the humor is organic, and it perfectly captures the millennial/Gen-Z zeitgeist without trying too hard.

5. Kaathal – The Core (2023) Starring Mammootty, Jyothika

A brave and quiet film starring the legendary Mammootty. It tackles a subject rarely explored in Indian mainstream cinema: an older closeted gay man navigating a marriage of convenience. It is not a loud drama but a sensitive, heartbreaking study of family, societal pressure, and the search for freedom. A testament to the fact that Malayalam superstars are willing to take massive risks.