List Of Best Malayalam Movies New [top] -

The Malayalam film industry has seen a massive "New Wave" in 2024 and 2025, dominated by high-grossing thrillers, supernatural narratives, and grounded social dramas. Lokah Chapter One: Chandra

is currently the top-grossing film of 2025, earning over ₹300 crore worldwide. Top Rated & Must-Watch Films (2024–2025)

The following films have received widespread critical acclaim and strong box-office performance: BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 - IMDb

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 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

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:

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.
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.
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.
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 list of best malayalam movies new

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:

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.
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.
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.
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:

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.
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.
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:

Amazon Prime Video: Offers a wide range of Malayalam films, including Ayyappanum Koshiyum and Drishyam 2.
Disney+ Hotstar: Features a collection of Malayalam movies, including The Great Indian Kitchen and Gulabi.
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!

Malayalam cinema continues to push the boundaries of storytelling with a mix of high-octane action, deep psychological thrillers, and genre-bending fantasies

. Here is a blog post highlighting the best new and upcoming Malayalam movies for 2025 and 2026.

The Best New Malayalam Movies: Must-Watch List for 2025-2026

Malayalam cinema is in a golden era, moving from the grounded "New Wave" of the 2010s into a period of massive technical ambition. From groundbreaking superhero tales to the return of iconic franchises, here are the films you need to add to your watchlist. 1. Top Critically Acclaimed & Blockbusters of 2025

The first half of 2025 has already delivered several landmark films that have dominated both the box office and critical circles. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

: A modernized folk tale turned superhero origin story. Starring Kalyani Priyadarshan

, this film breached the ₹300-crore mark and introduced Indian cinema’s first female superhero. : A masterful crime thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy , featuring the legendary duo of

. It is praised for its meta-references to classic cinema and its high-stakes plot involving a missing Ambassador car. Sarvam Maya : A supernatural romantic comedy starring Nivin Pauly

. The story follows an atheist musician forced into the role of a village priest, blending humor with deep questions about faith. : Directed by Dinjith Ayyathan

, this mystery thriller is a standout for its "shapeshifting screenplay" that spans multiple generations and geographies, from World War II to modern-day migration. 2. Highly Anticipated Movies for 2026

The 2026 calendar is packed with massive stars and ambitious projects that are already generating significant buzz.

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. The Malayalam film industry has seen a massive

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

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

An X user posted a message saying, "#Ponman joins the elite list of 'One of the finest Malayalam films ever done'. Portraying all ... Ullozhukku

Instead, 'Ullozhukku' was unanimously praised and won Best Malayalam Film. The film's writing, direction, and technical brilliance... Ullozhukku Rekhachithram

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

So we sat down and ranked the Top 10 Malayalam Bromance Movies of all time — from Appukuttan's crow faeces in 1990 to Shammy's psy...

So Ronth ( Ronth | Malayalam ) is according to me a 7. 5 out of 10 rating. So madman rating for this movie 7 point five. Which bas... L2: Empuraan

While Mohanlal's L2: Empuraan has already become the highest grossing Malayalam film ever and his latest movie Thudarum, which has... L2: Empuraan Sookshmadarshini

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

It's rare to come across such brilliantly written scripts, and this year, Malayalam cinema has been fortunate with many standout f... Kishkindha Kaandam Rifle Club

Mollywood ( Malayalam Movie ) director Aashiq Abu has made his magnificent comeback with the action flick ' Rifle Club' which is g... Rifle Club Alappuzha Gymkhana

Watch till end💥 Alappuzha Gymkhana is a vibrant Malayalam film that captures the spirit of friendship, youth, and local culture s... Alappuzha Gymkhana

🎬 I D E N T I T Y ( Identity — 2025 ) (Malayalam movie, 2025) O U T S T A N D I N G ❤ Identity ( Identity — 2025 ) is an absolute...

'Bazooka' teaser: Mammootty's bold presence infuses style into the pulse-pounding actioner On August 15, the teaser for the Malaya... JSK: Janaki V v/s State of Kerala

The release of the upcoming Malayalam film Janaki v/s State of Kerala or JSK ( Janaki v/s State of Kerala ) has been postponed. Th... JSK: Janaki V v/s State of Kerala Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil

The Malayalam film 'Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' is now available for streaming on a digital platform but faces allegations from comp... Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil Officer on Duty

Her latest Malayalam-language film, Officer On Duty, out in the UAE cinemas now is a solid testament to her beliefs. Starring Kunc... Officer on Duty Prince and Family

Malayalam's latest film, Prince and Family, made its digital debut following a successful theatrical run since May. The comedy dra... Prince and Family Padakkalam

Suraj Venjaramoodu's latest Malayalam film 'Padakkalam' hit theatres recently but registered a lukewarm start at the box office. A... Padakkalam Hridayapoorvam

Hridayapoorvam Movie Review: Mohanlal in a 40-Year-Old Virgin-Esque Comedy with Indian Sensibility I watched Hridayapoorvam, the l... Hridayapoorvam List of Malayalam films of 2025 - Wikipedia

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

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 Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020): Directed by Aadhavan, this film

MUST WATCH MALAYALAM MOVIES 2024-2025 * 1. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. 2025. 2h 31m. 14A. 7,6 (21 k) Noter. Marquer comme regardé Ch... Top 10 Malayalam Movies 2024

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- ₹...

The Malayalam film industry, or Mollywood, continues its streak of critical and commercial success into 2025 and 2026. The recent landscape is dominated by a mix of high-octane sequels, experimental supernatural thrillers, and "new wave" social dramas that have achieved record-breaking box office numbers globally. Top Blockbusters of 2025–2026

These films represent the pinnacle of commercial success, with several entering the prestigious "100 Crore Club" and beyond. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra

: A historic milestone for the industry, becoming the first Malayalam film to cross the ₹300 crore mark. Directed by Dominic Arun and starring Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, it is a technical marvel that reimagines a familiar folktale as a modern superhero epic set in Bengaluru. L2: Empuraan : The highly anticipated sequel to

, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and starring Mohanlal. Despite mixed reviews, its massive pre-release buzz propelled it to a global gross of approximately ₹268 crore.

: A crime thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy, featuring the iconic pairing of Mohanlal and Shobana. It earned critical acclaim for its performances and script, grossing over ₹237 crore worldwide. Vaazha II: Biopic of a Billion Bros

: A massive sleeper hit following a group of friends labeled as "losers" on a journey of self-discovery. It quickly outpaced its predecessor, grossing over ₹175 crore by April 2026. Critically Acclaimed & Award Winners

These films have been recognized for their innovative storytelling, direction, and acting. BEST MALAYALAM MOVIES OF 2025 - IMDb

Recent Releases (2015-2022)

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

Critically Acclaimed Movies

The Great Indian Kitchen (2021): A drama directed by Jeo Baby, exploring the life of a domestic worker.
The Son (2020): A drama directed by Sreehari Nandan, dealing with the complexities of family relationships.
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:

Sudani from Nigeria: Received the Best Film award at the 2018 Kerala Film Critics Awards.
The Great Indian Kitchen: Won the Best Film award at the 2021 Kerala Film Critics Awards and the 2021 Asian Film Awards.
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:

Social issues: Movies like The Great Indian Kitchen and Insha'Allah tackle pressing social issues, such as domestic workers' rights and communal harmony.
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.

Honorable Mentions (Excellent but Niche)

Falimy (2023): A dysfunctional family road trip comedy.
Iratta (2023): A devastating twin-cop tragedy (very dark).
Thankam (2023): A slow-burn crime drama set in the gold trade.

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.

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.

5. Neru (2023 - Late Release)

Genre: Courtroom Drama / Legal Thriller
Director: Jeethu Joseph
Why it’s best: The reunion of the Drishyam team (Mohanlal, Jeethu Joseph). Unlike loud courtroom dramas, Neru is quiet, realistic, and devastating. It follows a blind sculptor seeking justice for assault.
Highlight: The final cross-examination scene.
Verdict: Proof that Mohanlal remains the master of restrained acting.

1. 2018: Everyone is a Hero (2023)

Genre: Disaster Survival
Why it made the list: Based on the catastrophic Kerala floods of 2018, this film is a technical marvel. Director Jude Anthany Joseph masterfully weaves multiple personal stories into a single tapestry of human resilience. It is not just a movie; it is an experience. The visual effects and underwater sequences are world-class. For anyone looking for a emotional, high-stakes thriller in the list of best malayalam movies new, this is the top pick.

The Final Verdict

The renewed interest in Mollywood is not a fluke. The industry has learned that content is king. Whether you are a fan of the legendary "Big Ms" (Mohanlal and Mammootty) or the new generation (Fahadh Faasil, Tovino Thomas, Naslen), the list of best malayalam movies new proves one thing: Even with a small budget, you can tell a big story.

Start with Manjummel Boys if you want thrills. Pick Premalu if you want romance. Try Bramayugam if you want to be scared. But watch them all.

Have we missed a recent release? Which new Malayalam movie do you think deserves the number one spot? Tell us in the comments below.

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.

4. Bramayugam (2024)

Director: Rahul Sadasivan
Genre: Black-and-White Folk Horror

Perhaps the most daring Malayalam film in decades, Bramayugam is shot entirely in stunning black and white. Set in the 17th century, a traveling singer (Arjun Ashokan) stumbles upon a massive, ancient mansion. He is hosted by the lord of the house, Kodumon Potti (Mammootty), a seemingly benevolent Brahmin who slowly reveals himself to be a monstrous, immortal sorcerer.

Mammootty, with a white beard and a quiet, predatory smile, delivers a terrifying performance unlike any other in his 40-year career. The film is a slow-burn, atmospheric nightmare, using sound design and deep shadows to create dread. It’s a commentary on caste, power, and the corruption of privilege. Caution: Not a jump-scare horror film, but a creeping, psychological one.

5. Kannur Squad (2023)

Genre: Police Procedural / Thriller Director: Roby Varghese Raj

Mammootty delivers a grounded, powerful performance as ASI George Martin, who leads a squad of police officers on a challenging mission to track down a dangerous gang across North India.

Why it stands out: Unlike typical "cop movies" where the protagonist is an invincible superhero, Kannur Squad focuses on the procedural hardships of policing—the lack of funds, the physical exhaustion, and the departmental politics. It is gritty, realistic, and treats the antagonist with intelligence, making for a gripping cat-and-mouse chase. The cinematography and background score elevate the film to an international standard.