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Top 10 Malayalam Movies on Netflix — Must-Watch List
1. Minnal Murali
Year: 2021. Genre: Superhero / Drama.
“Minnal Murali” is a landmark Malayalam attempt at a homegrown superhero story. It follows an ordinary tailor who gains extraordinary powers after a lightning strike. Beyond the comic-book premise, the film explores how fame, fear and small-town relationships react to sudden change. Strong performances, credible VFX for regional cinema, and a humane core make it a good entry point for international viewers curious about contemporary Malayalam cinema.
2. Kappela
Year: 2020. Genre: Drama / Social Thriller.
“Kappela” is a tightly written character drama about a young woman from a village who forms an unexpected connection over phone conversations. The film unpacks trust, misunderstanding and the vulnerability of rural life with subtle direction and strong lead performances. It’s a slow-burning watch that surprises viewers by shifting tones and revealing real-world stakes in everyday interactions.
3. Irul
Year: 2021. Genre: Mystery / Thriller.
“Irul” is a compact psychological mystery that centers on three characters stranded in an isolated house. Tension builds through claustrophobic settings, shifting motivations and a layered screenplay. Performances create a moodier, tense atmosphere; the film relies on atmosphere and character friction more than spectacle. It works well for viewers who enjoy contained thrillers and moral ambiguity.
4. Kurup
Year: 2021. Genre: Crime / Biopic.
“Kurup” dramatizes the life and alleged crimes of a notorious figure, blending true-crime elements with cinematic flair. The film follows a man’s rise and the web of deception surrounding large-scale insurance fraud and escape. Strong lead performance and glossy production values give it a mainstream appeal, making it comfortable viewing for fans of crime dramas and biopics.
5. Nayattu
Year: 2021. Genre: Political Thriller / Drama.
“Nayattu” (meaning “The Hunt”) is a taut, urgent story about three police officers who become entangled in a political controversy and must run for their lives. The film’s strength is its realistic portrayal of institutions under pressure and how ordinary lives are affected by politicized events. Gritty, well-acted and timely, it’s a compelling example of Malayalam socially-aware cinema.
6. Maniyarayile Ashokan
Year: 2020. Genre: Romantic Comedy / Drama.
“Maniyarayile Ashokan” is a light-hearted romantic comedy about a shy, well-meaning man navigating love and marriage pressures. The film balances humour with gentle emotional beats and showcases slice-of-life storytelling rather than big dramatic gestures. It’s an easy watch for viewers who prefer character-driven romantic comedies with regional flavor.
7. Kondal
Year: 2024. Genre: Action / Thriller.
“Kondal” leans into coastal settings and tense interpersonal conflicts to tell a revenge-tinged action story. With kinetic action sequences and a local sensibility, the film highlights how environment and community shape violent choices. Suitable for viewers who enjoy gritty, regional action films with strong location-based storytelling.
8. Thallumaala
Year: 2022. Genre: Action / Comedy.
“Thallumaala” combines youthful energy, stylized fights and comic set pieces to create a rollicking entertainer. The film’s pace, inventive choreography and pop-culture references made it a hit with younger audiences. If you want a high-energy Malayalam crowd-pleaser with memorable sequences, this is a strong pick.
9. Virus
Year: 2019. Genre: Medical Thriller / Drama.
“Virus” recounts the real-life handling of a viral outbreak in Kerala and the coordinated response by health professionals. The ensemble cast, procedural realism and human stories behind the emergency response make it both informative and emotionally resonant. It’s recommended for viewers who appreciate fact-inspired dramas and ensemble storytelling.
10. Oh! Baby (Malayalam)
Year: 2023 (Malayalam remake). Genre: Comedy / Fantasy.
“Oh! Baby” is a light, feel-good fantasy comedy about a woman who experiences a surprising transformation that forces her to re-evaluate life choices. Warm performances and comedic situations make it family-friendly and accessible to viewers who enjoy heartwarming comedies with a fantastical twist.
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