2016 was an incredible year for Malayalam cinema, with a diverse range of films that pushed boundaries, told compelling stories, and showcased the immense talent in the industry. From heartwarming family dramas to gritty thrillers, the year had something for everyone. In this post, we’ll count down the 20 best Malayalam movies of 2016 that left a lasting impact on audiences.
20. Amoeba
Starting off our list is the thought-provoking film Amoeba. Set in the Kasargod district of Kerala, the movie sheds light on the devastating effects of endosulfan pesticide use on the local population and environment. Director Manoj Kana crafts a powerful narrative that raises awareness about this important issue. Amoeba features moving performances from Aneesh Menon, Anumol K. Manoharan and Indrans.
19. Aakasangalkkappuram
Aakasangalkkappuram, directed by Dhanoj Naik, is a slice-of-life drama that explores the complexities of human relationships. Starring Sunil Adoor, Anju Amarnath and Aadharsh Bharanikkavu Radhakrishnan, the film offers a nuanced look at the lives of ordinary people navigating love, loss, and everything in between.
18. Pachakallam
Pachakallam is a gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. When Aparna, a hearing-impaired woman, goes missing, her husband Abhi’s life is turned upside down. Director Prasanth Mambully weaves an intriguing mystery, with strong performances from Maqbool Salmaan, B. Thyagarajan and Riyaz Khan.
17. Jalam
Jalam is a poignant tale of a widowed mother’s struggle to raise her child alone in the city. After losing her husband in an accident, she faces numerous challenges to secure a piece of land for them to live on. Aliya delivers a heartbreaking performance as the resilient mother, with great support from Ponnamma Babu and Prakash Bare. Director M. Padmakumar crafts an emotionally resonant film.
16. Paavada
Paavada is a heartwarming comedy-drama about the unlikely friendship between Joy, a carefree young man, and Babu Joseph, an English professor. As they reminisce about the past, long-forgotten memories resurface. Prithviraj Sukumaran, Anoop Menon, and Miya George shine in this delightful film directed by G. Marthandan.
15. Maalgudi Days
Set in the fictional Malgudi Residential School, Maalgudi Days revolves around a mysterious man named Zephan Solomon and two students. Director Vinod Visakh creates an intriguing atmosphere, with Anoop Menon, Janaki Menon and Vishal Sunil delivering strong performances.
14. Aalroopangal
Aalroopangal explores the impact of hartals (strikes) on the life of a common man. Nandu stars as a roadside food vendor whose life is upended by an unexpected hartal. Director C.V. Premkumar crafts a relatable story, with solid performances from Sudheer Karamana and Raghavan.
13. Style
Style is an action-packed entertainer about a young mechanic named Tom who gets into a fight with Edgar, a rich businessman, after he slaps Tom’s girlfriend. Defeated, Edgar vows revenge. Unni Mukundan, Priya Kandwal and Tovino Thomas star in this thrilling film directed by Binu Sadanandan.
12. Vettah
Vettah is a gripping crime thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. When a series of murders rocks a small town, a cop and a novelist team up to unravel the mystery. Kunchacko Boban, Manju Warrier, and Indrajith Sukumaran deliver intense performances in this edge-of-your-seat film directed by Rajesh Pillai.
11. Maheshinte Prathikaaram
Maheshinte Prathikaaram is a delightful romantic comedy about a photographer named Mahesh who sets out to take revenge on the man who humiliated him, but ends up finding love along the way. Fahadh Faasil is charming as the lovable Mahesh, with great support from Aparna Balamurali and Soubin Shahir. Dileesh Pothan directs this feel-good film with a lot of heart.
10. Guppy
Guppy is a coming-of-age story about a young boy named Guppy who forms an unlikely bond with an old man in his neighborhood. As their friendship grows, Guppy learns valuable life lessons. Master Chethan Jayalal delivers a remarkable performance as Guppy, with Tovino Thomas equally impressive as the old man. Johnpaul George directs this heartwarming tale with sensitivity.
9. Oru Muthassi Gadha
Oru Muthassi Gadha is a hilarious comedy about a group of senior citizens who decide to take matters into their own hands when their retirement home is threatened with closure. Rajini Chandy, Bhagyalakshmi, and KPAC Lalitha are a riot as the feisty grandmothers, while Suraj Venjaramoodu and Lena provide able support. Jude Anthany Joseph directs this side-splitting film that proves age is just a number.
8. Kismath
Kismath is a hard-hitting drama that explores religious tensions and moral policing in society. When an interfaith couple is harassed by moral police, it sparks a chain of events that spirals out of control. Shane Nigam and Shruthy Menon are excellent as the young couple, while Vinay Forrt and Alencier Ley Lopez make an impact in supporting roles. Shanavas K Bavakutty directs this thought-provoking film with a strong social message.
7. Karinkunnam 6S
Karinkunnam 6S is a sports drama that follows a struggling volleyball team as they try to make it to the state championships. Manju Warrier delivers a powerhouse performance as the determined coach who whips the team into shape, with Anoop Menon and Babu Antony providing solid support. Deepu Karunakaran directs this inspiring underdog story that will have you cheering from the stands.
6. Kavi Uddheshichathu?
Kavi Uddheshichathu? is a witty satire that takes on the education system and societal pressures. When a struggling student decides to become a full-time poet, it leads to hilarious consequences. Asif Ali is terrific as the wannabe poet, with Narain and Anju Kurian also delivering memorable performances. Thomas Sebastian directs this clever film that will make you laugh and think in equal measure.
5. Anuraga Karikkin Vellam
Anuraga Karikkin Vellam is a heartwarming family drama that explores the complex relationship between a father and son. Biju Menon delivers a stunning performance as Raghu, a man trying to reconnect with his son Abhi, played by an equally impressive Asif Ali. Rajisha Vijayan and Asha Sharath provide able support in this emotionally resonant film directed by Khalid Rahman.
The movie beautifully captures the struggles and joys of family life, as Raghu and Abhi navigate their strained relationship. With the help of a new presence in their lives, the family undergoes a transformative journey. Anuraga Karikkin Vellam is a must-watch for its authentic portrayal of familial bonds and stellar performances from the cast.
4. Oppam
Oppam is a gripping thriller about a blind man who becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Mohanlal delivers a masterclass in acting as the blind elevator operator Jayaraman, with Samuthirakani, Vimala Raman, and Baby Meenakshi providing excellent support. Priyadarshan directs this edge-of-your-seat film that keeps you guessing until the very end.
3. Kammatti Paadam
Kammatti Paadam is a gritty crime drama that explores the dark underbelly of Kochi. When Krishnan receives a distress call from his childhood friend Ganga, he returns to his hometown to confront the demons of his past. Dulquer Salmaan delivers a career-best performance as Krishnan, with Vinayakan and Shaun Romy also making a strong impact. Rajeev Ravi directs this hard-hitting film that pulls no punches.
The movie is a raw and unflinching look at the lives of those on the margins of society, as Krishnan and Ganga navigate a world of crime, violence, and betrayal. Kammatti Paadam is a must-watch for its bold storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
2. Jacobinte Swargarajyam
Jacobinte Swargarajyam is an inspiring true story about a family’s fight to reclaim their business empire after suffering huge losses. Nivin Pauly delivers a stellar performance as Jerry, the son who takes on the responsibility of saving his family from financial ruin. Renji Panicker, Sreenath Bhasi, and Aima Rosmy Sebastian provide able support in this uplifting film directed by Vineeth Sreenivasan.
1. Action Hero Biju
Topping our list of the best Malayalam movies of 2016 is Action Hero Biju, a gripping police procedural that follows SI Biju Paulose as he tackles various cases in Kochi. Nivin Pauly is brilliant as the no-nonsense cop, with Anu Emmanuel and Jude Anthany Joseph providing solid support. Abrid Shine directs this riveting film that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
What sets Action Hero Biju apart is its realistic portrayal of police work, eschewing the usual tropes of over-the-top action and melodrama. The movie offers a fascinating glimpse into the day-to-day life of a dedicated police officer as he navigates a complex web of crimes and criminals. The film is a must-watch for its gripping storytelling, stellar performances, and refreshingly realistic take on the police procedural genre. It’s a fitting choice for the #1 spot on our list of the best Malayalam movies of 2016.
2016 was a banner year for Malayalam cinema, with a wide array of films that showcased the industry’s creativity, talent, and willingness to take risks. From hard-hitting dramas to lighthearted comedies, the 20 movies on this list represent the very best of what Malayalam cinema had to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these films are sure to entertain, enlighten, and inspire you. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy the best that Malayalam cinema had to offer in 2016!
