Malayalam cinema has been on a roll in recent years, delivering one cinematic gem after another. The year 2023 has been no different, with a slew of exceptional films released on various OTT platforms. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming dramas, there’s something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the 20 best Malayalam movies of 2023 that you can watch from the comfort of your home. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of Malayalam cinema!
1. Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam
Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam is a baffling tragicomedy steeped in dream logic, directed by the brilliant Lijo Jose Pellissery. The film follows a Malayali theatre troupe led by James (played by Mammootty) who takes an unplanned detour into a village in Tamil Nadu. What follows is a surreal journey where James seemingly transforms into a local named Sundaram.
Pellissery masterfully weaves together dreams, a thin one-line idea, and the magic of cinema to create a unique cinematic experience. The film is a concoction of beautifully thought-out static frames, quirky characters, and shifting loyalties. Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam is a testament to Pellissery’s storytelling prowess and Mammootty’s versatility as an actor.
2. Thuramukham
Thuramukham, directed by Rajeev Ravi, is a fictional recounting of the evolution of trade unionism and the struggle of port labourers in Mattancherry during the 1940s and 50s. The film revolves around Moidu (played by Nivin Pauly), a port labourer hired as a goon by company management and the police to suppress the fledgling trade union movement.
Ravi infuses the film with his signature atmospheric heft, while Gopan Chidambaram’s script brings to life the pathos and frustrations of the labourers and their families. Nivin Pauly delivers a powerful performance as the morally ambiguous Moidu, ably supported by Poornima Indrajit and Arjun Ashokan. Thuramukham is a slower-paced but impactful film that sheds light on a crucial chapter in Kerala’s labour history.
3. Nna Thaan Case Kodu
Nna Thaan Case Kodu is a courtroom drama with a twist, directed by Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval. The film stars Kunchacko Boban as Rajeevan, a thief who turns plaintiff after a road accident leaves him injured. What follows is a humorous and thought-provoking tale that exposes the flaws in the justice system and the power dynamics at play.
Poduval’s clever writing and Kunchacko Boban’s earnest performance make Nna Thaan Case Kodu a must-watch. The film tackles serious issues with a light touch, making it both entertaining and socially relevant.
4. Bheeshma Parvam
Bheeshma Parvam, directed by Amal Neerad, is a gangster drama that pays homage to the classic The Godfather. The film stars Mammootty as Michael, the patriarch of a powerful family in Kochi. When his family is threatened by rivals and internal conflicts, Michael must navigate the treacherous waters to protect his loved ones.
Neerad’s stylish direction and Mammootty’s commanding presence make Bheeshma Parvam a thrilling watch. The film also boasts of a stellar supporting cast, including Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, and Nadiya Moidu. If you’re a fan of gangster dramas, this one is not to be missed.
5. Hridayam
Hridayam, directed by Vineeth Sreenivasan, is a coming-of-age drama that follows the journey of Arun (played by Pranav Mohanlal) from his college days to adulthood. The film is a heartwarming exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
Sreenivasan’s sensitive direction and Mohanlal’s nuanced performance make Hridayam a relatable and emotionally resonant film. The film also features a memorable soundtrack by Hesham Abdul Wahab, which perfectly captures the mood and spirit of the story.
6. Bro Daddy
Bro Daddy, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, is a family comedy that revolves around the unexpected pregnancy of a young couple and the ensuing chaos. The film stars Mohanlal, Prithviraj, Kalyani Priyadarshan, and Meena in lead roles.
Sukumaran’s assured direction and the cast’s impeccable comic timing make Bro Daddy a hilarious and heartwarming watch. The film deals with sensitive issues with a light touch, making it a perfect family entertainer.
7. Puzhu
Puzhu, directed by Ratheena, is a psychological thriller that explores the dark underbelly of a seemingly perfect family. The film stars Mammootty as a retired police officer who is haunted by his past and the secrets he harbors.
Ratheena’s taut direction and Mammootty’s chilling performance make Puzhu a gripping and unsettling watch. The film also features stellar performances by Parvathy Thiruvothu and Athmiya Rajan, who play pivotal roles in the story.
8. Jana Gana Mana
Jana Gana Mana, directed by Dijo Jose Antony, is a legal drama that tackles the issue of police brutality and the abuse of power. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran as a lawyer who takes on the system to seek justice for a young woman who was brutally assaulted by the police.
Antony’s hard-hitting direction and Sukumaran’s powerful performance make Jana Gana Mana a compelling and socially relevant film. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Suraj Venjaramoodu and Mamta Mohandas.
9. Aaraattu
Aaraattu, directed by B. Unnikrishnan, is a mass entertainer that stars Mohanlal as a larger-than-life hero who takes on a corrupt system. The film is a throwback to the classic masala films of the 80s and 90s, with Mohanlal in top form.
Unnikrishnan’s slick direction and Mohanlal’s charismatic performance make Aaraattu a fun and entertaining watch. The film also features some impressive action sequences and catchy songs that will have you hooked.
10. Salute
Salute, directed by Rosshan Andrrews, is a police procedural that follows the investigation of a high-profile murder case. The film stars Dulquer Salmaan as a cop who is determined to uncover the truth, even if it means going against his own department.
Andrrews’ taut direction and Salmaan’s understated performance make Salute a gripping and intelligent thriller. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Diana Penty and Manoj K. Jayan.
11. Pada
Pada, directed by Kamal KM, is a political thriller based on true events. The film follows a group of activists who take over a government office to protest against the displacement of indigenous people due to a dam project.
KM’s nuanced direction and the ensemble cast’s powerful performances make Pada a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film. The film sheds light on the plight of marginalized communities and the importance of activism in a democracy.
12. Naaradan
Naaradan, directed by Aashiq Abu, is a media satire that takes a scathing look at the sensationalism and corruption in the news industry. The film stars Tovino Thomas as a journalist who gets caught up in the murky world of media politics.
Abu’s sharp direction and Thomas’ dynamic performance make Naaradan a riveting and socially relevant film. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Anna Ben and Sharafudheen.
13. Rorschach
Rorschach, directed by Nissam Basheer, is a psychological thriller that follows a man who is haunted by his past and the ghosts of his childhood. The film stars Mammootty in a dual role, as a father and son.
Basheer’s atmospheric direction and Mammootty’s intense performance make Rorschach a haunting and unsettling watch. The film also features impressive cinematography by Nimish Ravi, which adds to the eerie mood of the story.
14. Saudi Vellakka
Saudi Vellakka, directed by Tharun Moorthy, is a slice-of-life drama that explores the lives of a group of people in a small town in Kerala. The film is a heartwarming and relatable tale of love, loss, and the human condition.
Moorthy’s sensitive direction and the ensemble cast’s natural performances make Saudi Vellakka a moving and authentic film. The film also features some beautiful cinematography by Shehnad Jalal, which captures the essence of small-town life.
15. Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey
Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, directed by Vipin Das, is a black comedy that takes a satirical look at the institution of marriage and the patriarchy that governs it. The film stars Darshana Rajendran and Basil Joseph as a newly married couple who navigate the ups and downs of their relationship.
Das’ clever writing and the lead pair’s crackling chemistry make Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey a hilarious and thought-provoking watch. The film also features some sharp social commentary on gender roles and the expectations placed on women in marriage.
16. Thallumaala
Thallumaala, directed by Khalid Rahman, is an action-comedy that follows the misadventures of a group of friends who get caught up in a gang war. The film stars Tovino Thomas, Kalyani Priyadarshan, and Shine Tom Chacko in lead roles.
Rahman’s stylish direction and the cast’s infectious energy make Thallumaala a fun and entertaining watch. The film also features some impressive action sequences and catchy songs that will have you grooving in your seat.
17. Aavasavyuham
Aavasavyuham, directed by Krishand RK, is an eco-thriller that explores the impact of human activities on the environment and the wildlife that inhabits it. The film stars Rahul Rajagopal as a forest officer who is tasked with investigating the mysterious disappearance of a crocodile.
RK’s unique storytelling style and the film’s stunning visuals make Aavasavyuham a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience. The film also features a haunting soundtrack by Yakzan Gary Pereira and Neha S Nair, which adds to the eerie atmosphere of the story.
18. Dear Friend
Dear Friend, directed by Vineeth Kumar, is a coming-of-age drama that explores the complexities of friendship and the challenges of growing up. The film stars Tovino Thomas, Darshana Rajendran, and Arjun Lal in lead roles.
Kumar’s sensitive direction and the lead trio’s heartfelt performances make Dear Friend a relatable and emotionally resonant film. The film also features some beautiful cinematography by Shehnad Jalal, which captures the nostalgia and warmth of childhood memories.
19. Eesho
Eesho, directed by Nadirshah, is a supernatural thriller that follows a group of friends who encounter a mysterious entity during a camping trip. The film stars Jayasurya, Namitha Pramod, and Jaffer Idukki in lead roles.
Nadirshah’s taut direction and the film’s creepy atmosphere make Eesho a spine-chilling watch. The film also features some impressive special effects and jump scares that will have you on the edge of your seat.
20. Kaapa
Kaapa, directed by Shaji Kailas, is a crime thriller that explores the underbelly of Thiruvananthapuram and the power dynamics that govern it. The film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Aparna Balamurali, and Asif Ali in lead roles.
Kailas’ gritty direction and the cast’s intense performances make Kaapa a gripping and hard-hitting watch. The film also features some impressive action sequences and a pulsating soundtrack by Jakes Bejoy.
Conclusion
The year 2023 has been a banner year for Malayalam cinema, with a diverse range of films that cater to all tastes and sensibilities. From hard-hitting dramas to lighthearted comedies, Malayalam filmmakers have pushed the boundaries of storytelling and delivered some truly exceptional films.
The 20 films on this list are a testament to the talent and creativity of the Malayalam film industry. Each film has something unique to offer, whether it’s a powerful performance, a thought-provoking theme, or a visually stunning experience.
