The Best of Malayalam Cinema in 2018: 20 Must-Watch Movies

Hey there, movie buffs! 2018 was an incredible year for Malayalam cinema, with a diverse array of films that pushed boundaries, tugged at heartstrings, and left audiences in awe. From heartwarming tales of friendship and family to gripping thrillers and thought-provoking social commentaries, Malayalam filmmakers truly outdid themselves.

As a die-hard fan of Malayalam movies myself, I’ve put together this list of the 20 best Malayalam films of 2018 that you absolutely cannot miss. So grab some popcorn, get cozy, and let’s dive in!

1. Sudani from Nigeria

Directed by: Zakariya Starring: Soubin Shahir, Samuel Abiola Robinson

Kicking off our list is the heartwarming sports drama Sudani from Nigeria. The film follows the unlikely friendship between Majeed, a local football club manager in Malappuram, and Samuel, a Nigerian player who gets injured during a tournament. As Majeed takes Samuel into his home to recover, the two form a beautiful bond that transcends language and cultural barriers.

With stellar performances by Soubin Shahir and Samuel Abiola Robinson, Sudani from Nigeria is a feel-good movie that will leave you with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and the universality of emotions.

2. Ee.Ma.Yau (R.I.P)

Directed by: Lijo Jose Pellissery Starring: Chemban Vinod Jose, Vinayakan

Next up is Ee.Ma.Yau, a black comedy that revolves around the death of Vavachan Mesthiri and the chaos that ensues as his family tries to give him a grand funeral. Set in a coastal village in Kochi, the film is a satirical take on death rituals and societal norms.

Lijo Jose Pellissery’s masterful direction and the brilliant performances by the ensemble cast make Ee.Ma.Yau a must-watch. It’s a film that will make you laugh, cry, and ponder the absurdities of life and death.

3. Eeda

Directed by: B. Ajithkumar Starring: Shane Nigam, Nimisha Sajayan

Eeda is a poignant love story set against the backdrop of political violence in Kannur. Anand and Aishwarya, who belong to rival political families, fall in love despite the odds stacked against them. As their relationship deepens, they find themselves caught in a web of hatred and revenge.

Shane Nigam and Nimisha Sajayan deliver powerful performances as the star-crossed lovers, while B. Ajithkumar’s sensitive direction captures the essence of their tragic tale. Eeda is a haunting reminder of the human cost of political conflicts.

4. Varathan

Directed by: Amal Neerad Starring: Fahadh Faasil, Aishwarya Lekshmi

In Varathan, Fahadh Faasil plays Abin, an NRI who moves back to his hometown in Kerala with his wife, Priya, after losing his job in Dubai. As they try to adjust to their new life, Priya becomes the target of harassment by the local men, leading to a series of violent events.

Amal Neerad’s stylish direction and Fahadh Faasil’s intense performance make Varathan a gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a bold film that tackles the issue of toxic masculinity and the objectification of women in our society.

5. Njan Prakashan

Directed by: Sathyan Anthikad Starring: Fahadh Faasil, Sreenivasan

Njan Prakashan is a heartwarming comedy-drama that follows the transformation of Prakashan, a lazy and entitled young man, as he sets out to become a nurse in Germany to impress his girlfriend’s family. Along the way, he learns valuable life lessons and discovers his true calling.

Fahadh Faasil once again shines in this film, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Sathyan Anthikad’s direction and Sreenivasan’s witty dialogues make Njan Prakashan a delightful watch that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of life.

6. Joseph

Directed by: M. Padmakumar Starring: Joju George, Dileesh Pothan

Joseph is a gripping crime thriller that revolves around the eponymous character, a retired police officer who is haunted by his past. When a series of mysterious deaths occur, Joseph is forced to confront his demons and unravel the truth.

Joju George delivers a powerful performance as the troubled protagonist, while Dileesh Pothan shines in a supporting role. M. Padmakumar’s taut direction keeps you hooked till the very end, making Joseph a must-watch for fans of the genre.

7. Ee.Ma.Yau

Directed by: Lijo Jose Pellissery Starring: Vinayakan, Chemban Vinod Jose

Yes, Ee.Ma.Yau is so good that it deserves a second mention! This film is a masterclass in dark humor and social commentary, with Lijo Jose Pellissery’s unique storytelling style shining through in every frame.

The performances by Vinayakan and Chemban Vinod Jose are particularly noteworthy, as they bring a raw intensity to their roles. If you haven’t watched Ee.Ma.Yau yet, do yourself a favor and add it to your watchlist ASAP.

8. Sudani from Nigeria

Directed by: Zakariya Starring: Soubin Shahir, Samuel Abiola Robinson

Another film that’s so good it warrants a second mention is Sudani from Nigeria. This heartwarming tale of friendship and cultural exchange is a must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of human connection.

Soubin Shahir and Samuel Abiola Robinson’s chemistry is the heart and soul of this film, and their performances will leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Sudani from Nigeria is a reminder that sometimes the most unlikely friendships can be the most meaningful.

9. Carbon

Directed by: Venu Starring: Fahadh Faasil, Mamta Mohandas

Carbon is a visually stunning adventure thriller that follows Sibi, a man who sets out on a treasure hunt in the dense forests of Kerala. As he navigates the treacherous terrain and encounters various obstacles, Sibi is forced to confront his own demons and make some tough choices.

Fahadh Faasil delivers yet another stellar performance in this film, while Mamta Mohandas shines in a supporting role. Venu’s direction and the breathtaking cinematography make Carbon a visual treat that’s not to be missed.

10. Padayottam

Directed by: Rafeek Ibrahim Starring: Biju Menon, Dileesh Pothan

Padayottam is a fun-filled entertainer that follows the misadventures of a group of friends who set out to attend a wedding in Kasaragod. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and get embroiled in a series of hilarious situations.

Biju Menon and Dileesh Pothan lead the ensemble cast with their impeccable comic timing and chemistry. Rafeek Ibrahim’s direction and the witty dialogues make Padayottam a laugh-out-loud comedy that’s perfect for a weekend watch with friends.

11. Oru Kuprasidha Payyan

Directed by: Madhupal Starring: Tovino Thomas, Nimisha Sajayan

Oru Kuprasidha Payyan is a legal drama that follows the story of Ajayan, a law student who gets embroiled in a murder case. As he sets out to prove his innocence, Ajayan uncovers a web of lies and deceit that threatens to destroy his life.

Tovino Thomas delivers a powerful performance as the protagonist, while Nimisha Sajayan shines in a supporting role. Madhupal’s direction and the gripping screenplay make Oru Kuprasidha Payyan a must-watch for fans of the genre.

12. Kammara Sambhavam

Directed by: Rathish Ambat Starring: Dileep, Siddharth

Kammara Sambhavam is a period drama that tells the story of Kammaran Nambiar, a legendary warrior who fought against the British during the freedom struggle. The film is a fictional retelling of his life, with Dileep playing the titular role.

While the film received mixed reviews, it’s still worth a watch for its grand scale, impressive production design, and the performances by Dileep and Siddharth. Kammara Sambhavam is a testament to the ambition and vision of Malayalam filmmakers.

13. Poomaram

Directed by: Abrid Shine Starring: Kalidas Jayaram, Neeta Pillai

Poomaram is a coming-of-age drama that follows the lives of a group of college students as they prepare for a prestigious youth festival. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the pursuit of one’s passions.

Kalidas Jayaram makes an impressive debut as the lead actor, while Neeta Pillai shines in a supporting role. Abrid Shine’s direction and the vibrant cinematography make Poomaram a visually stunning film that captures the essence of college life.

14. Aami

Directed by: Kamal Starring: Manju Warrier, Tovino Thomas

Aami is a biographical drama that tells the story of Kamala Das, one of India’s most celebrated poets and writers. The film explores her life and works, as well as her controversial personal life and relationships.

Manju Warrier delivers a powerful performance as Kamala Das, while Tovino Thomas shines in a supporting role. Kamal’s direction and the poetic cinematography make Aami a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.

15. Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil

Directed by: Tinu Pappachan Starring: Antony Varghese, Vinayakan

Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil is a prison drama that follows the story of Jacob, a man who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. As he tries to survive the harsh realities of prison life, Jacob forms an unlikely alliance with his fellow inmates.

Antony Varghese delivers a powerful performance as Jacob, while Vinayakan shines in a supporting role. Tinu Pappachan’s direction and the gritty cinematography make Swathanthryam Ardharathriyil a gripping and intense film that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

16. Theevandi

Directed by: Fellini T.P. Starring: Tovino Thomas, Samyuktha Menon

Theevandi is a satirical comedy that follows the story of Bineesh, a chain smoker who tries to quit the habit to win the love of his life. The film explores themes of addiction, love, and the challenges of overcoming one’s vices.

Tovino Thomas delivers a brilliant performance as Bineesh, while Samyuktha Menon shines in her debut role. Fellini T.P.’s direction and the witty dialogues make Theevandi a hilarious and thought-provoking film that will leave you in splits.

17. Eeda

Directed by: B. Ajithkumar Starring: Shane Nigam, Nimisha Sajayan

Another film that deserves a second mention is Eeda, a tragic love story set against the backdrop of political violence in Kannur. The film explores the human cost of ideological conflicts and the challenges of love in a world divided by hatred.

Shane Nigam and Nimisha Sajayan deliver powerful performances as the star-crossed lovers, while B. Ajithkumar’s sensitive direction captures the essence of their tragic tale. Eeda is a haunting and poignant film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

18. Lilli

Directed by: Prasobh Vijayan Starring: Samyuktha Menon, Kannan Nayar

Lilli is a thriller that follows the story of a pregnant woman who is kidnapped and held captive by a group of men. As she tries to escape her captors, Lilli must confront her own past and the secrets that threaten to destroy her life.

Samyuktha Menon delivers a powerful performance as Lilli, while Kannan Nayar shines in a supporting role. Prasobh Vijayan’s direction and the tense screenplay make Lilli a gripping and intense film that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

19. Oru Pazhaya Bomb Kadha

Directed by: Shafi Starring: Bibin George, Hareesh Kanaran

Oru Pazhaya Bomb Kadha is a comedy that follows the story of two small-time crooks who stumble upon a bomb and try to make some quick money out of it. The film is a hilarious take on the absurdities of life and the challenges of making a living in a world that’s constantly changing.

Bibin George and Hareesh Kanaran deliver brilliant performances as the bumbling crooks, while Shafi’s direction and the witty dialogues make Oru Pazhaya Bomb Kadha a laugh-out-loud comedy that’s perfect for a weekend watch with friends.

20. Vikadakumaran

Directed by: Boban Samuel Starring: Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Manasa Radhakrishnan

Vikadakumaran is a romantic comedy that follows the story of Eldho, a small-time thief who falls in love with a police officer’s daughter. As he tries to win her love and turn over a new leaf, Eldho must confront his past and the challenges of starting a new life.

Vishnu Unnikrishnan delivers a brilliant performance as Eldho, while Manasa Radhakrishnan shines in her debut role. Boban Samuel’s direction and the witty dialogues make Vikadakumaran a hilarious and heartwarming film that will leave you with a smile on your face.


And there you have it, folks! These are the 20 best Malayalam movies of 2018 that you absolutely cannot miss. From heartwarming dramas to gripping thrillers and hilarious comedies, these films showcase the incredible talent and diversity of Malayalam cinema.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some popcorn, gather your friends and family, and settle in for a marathon of the best that Malayalam cinema has to offer. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Do you have a favorite Malayalam movie from 2018 that didn’t make the list? Let me know in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to share it with your fellow movie buffs.

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