Malayalam cinema has long been celebrated as one of India’s most consistently brilliant film industries. From the poetic realism of Adoor Gopalakrishnan to the revolutionary works of Padmarajan and Bharathan, the 20th century gifted Indian cinema some of its most humane and artistic films. The 21st century is no different—Malayalam filmmakers continue to blend realism with experimentation, often on moderate budgets that belie the global acclaim their films receive. With the advent of streaming platforms like JioHotstar, audiences outside Kerala—who once had little access to these gems—are waking up to the richness of Malayalam cinema. Today, the industry continues to deliver stories that are emotionally grounded, socially observant, and cinematically inventive. Here’s a curated list of Malayalam movies currently streaming on JioHotstar that showcase the breadth and brilliance of contemporary Malayalam cinema.
1. Sookshmadarshini (2024)
Director: M. C. Jithin
Cast: Nazriya Nazim, Basil Joseph, Akhila Bhargavan, Merin Philip
IMDb Rating: 7.8
In this 2024 mystery-thriller, the story begins in an ordinary middle-class neighbourhood where Manuel returns with his mother to their old home. Priyadarshini, the sharp-eyed neighbour, soon notices that something about Manuel doesn’t feel right. What starts as a faint sense of unease gradually deepens into a full investigation involving disappearances and hidden truths. Blending noir, domestic suspense, and psychological drama, the film builds tension out of everyday life. Nazriya Nazim makes a striking return as a determined observer, while Basil Joseph surprises with his dark, layered performance. Every scene feels like it might be hiding something, and the final payoff hits hard. Sookshmadarshini is now available on JioHotstar, making it easy for audiences everywhere to stream one of Malayalam cinema’s most engaging recent thrillers.
Also, Read – The 10 Best Malayalam Movies Of 2024
2. Mukundan Unni Associates (2022)
Director: Abhinav Sunder NayakÂ
Cast: Vineeth Sreenivasan, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Aarsha Chandini Baiju, Sudhi KoppaÂ
IMDb Rating: 7.9
Released in 2022, Mukundan Unni Associates is a darkly comic crime drama that follows a small-time lawyer who will do just about anything to get ahead. His hunger for success slowly drags him into a world of shady insurance scams and medical fraud, and before long, he’s crossing lines that can’t be undone. What makes the film stand out is its unapologetic look at ambition and morality, all wrapped in sharp satire and a biting sense of humour. Vineeth Sreenivasan’s magnetic performance keeps you hooked to this deeply flawed character. Stylishly shot and tightly edited, it’s the kind of offbeat thriller that reminds you how fearless Malayalam cinema can be. You can stream Mukundan Unni Associates now on JioHotstar.
3. Kannur Squad (2023)
Director: Roby Varghese Raj
Cast: Mammootty, Azees Nedumangad, Rony David Raj, Kishore, VijayaraghavanÂ
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Kannur Squad (2023) is a gripping investigative crime thriller inspired by real-life cases handled by a special police unit. Mammootty plays ASI George Martin, leading a team that chases down suspects across state lines, uncovering grisly murders and tangled mysteries. What makes the film stand out is its attention to detail — from the bureaucracy of approvals to the grind of forensic work, it shows the less glamorous but vital side of policing. At the same time, it doesn’t shy away from the personal cost that constant travel and danger bring to the squad. With strong performances, tight writing, and a gritty visual style, Kannur Squad feels both authentic and cinematic. You can watch Kannur Squad on JioHotstar, where it stands tall as one of Malayalam cinema’s finest police procedurals’ movies.
4. Varathan (2018)
Director: Amal Neerad
Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Aishwarya Rajesh
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Varathan (2018) begins quietly, as a couple leaves the city and moves into a family home in a remote Kerala village, hoping for a fresh start. At first, it plays like a domestic drama, but when the neighbours start to cross boundaries, the story shifts gears. The unease slowly builds into full-blown survival tension, where every corner of the house becomes a battleground. Fahadh Faasil delivers a calm yet explosive performance, while Amal Neerad’s striking camerawork keeps the suspense taut and unpredictable. What makes the film memorable is how it turns ordinary vulnerabilities into terrifying threats. You can stream Varathan on JioHotstar and watch how a peaceful return home spirals into a chilling fight for survival.
5. Rorschach (2022)
Director: Nissam Basheer
Cast: Mammootty, Grace Antony, Jagadish, Sharafudheen, Bindu Panicker
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Rorschach (2022) is a stylish psychological thriller that takes Mammootty into one of his most enigmatic roles. He plays a man tormented by loss, though it’s never clear if he’s the hunter or the hunted. The film keeps its mysteries close, peeling back layers of motive and identity bit by bit, until nothing feels certain anymore. With its brooding cinematography, eerie sound design, and unsettling mood, Rorschach stands apart from conventional revenge dramas. It’s cold, ambiguous, and all the more gripping because of it. If you’re in the mood for a thriller that refuses to play safe, stream Rorschach now on JioHotstar.
6. Thudarum (2025)
Director: Tharun Moorthy
Cast: Mohanlal, Shobana, Bharathiraja, Prakash Varma
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Thudarum (2025) is a gripping emotional thriller set in the misty hill town of Ranni. The story follows a quiet taxi driver whose past comes back to entangle him in a chain of events filled with danger, guilt, and long-buried secrets. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, the film reunites Mohanlal and Shobana on screen, and their chemistry adds depth to an already layered narrative. What begins as a simple character drama slowly expands into a tense, high-stakes story about choices and consequences. With its mix of suspense, sentiment, and star power, Thudarum is both engaging and accessible. You can watch Thudarum on JioHotstar, where it continues to draw audiences with its blend of mystery and heart.
7. Kammattipaadam (2016)
Director: Rajeev Ravi
Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Vinayakan, Shaun Romy, Manikandan R. Achari
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Kammattipaadam (2016) is a sprawling gangster drama that doubles as a portrait of Kochi’s changing landscape. Directed by Rajeev Ravi, it tells the story of Krishnan, played by Dulquer Salmaan, who looks back on his youth caught in a violent world of land deals, loyalty, and betrayal. At its core, the film is about how modern development erases people and communities, leaving scars that last generations. Vinayakan’s unforgettable performance as Ganga is one of the film’s highlights, raw and deeply affecting. Gritty, atmospheric, and unapologetically real, Kammattipaadam is a must-watch Malayalam epic. You can stream it now on JioHotstar.
8. Drishyam (2013)
Director: Jeethu Joseph
Cast: Mohanlal, Meena, Asha Sharath, Ansiba Hassan
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Drishyam (2013) remains the crown jewel of Malayalam thrillers, a film that has set benchmarks for suspense storytelling across India. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, it stars Mohanlal as Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who will go to extraordinary lengths to protect his family after an unexpected crime. What makes the film remarkable is its airtight screenplay—every detail matters, every clue pays off—and its emotional core, which makes the tension all the more gripping. The final twist is still considered one of the finest in Indian cinema. If you’ve only seen the remakes, don’t miss the original. Watch Drishyam on JioHotstar and experience the thriller that started it all.
9. Bangalore Days (2014)
Director: Anjali Menon
Cast: Nazriya Nazim, Nivin Pauly, Dulquer Salmaan, Fahadh Faasil, Parvathy Thiruvothu
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Bangalore Days (2014) is one of the most beloved Malayalam films of the past decade, a warm-hearted drama about three cousins chasing dreams in a new city. Directed by Anjali Menon, it stars Nazriya Nazim, Nivin Pauly, Dulquer Salmaan, Fahadh Faasil, and Parvathy Thiruvothu in a cast that feels like family by the time the credits roll. The film beautifully captures the excitement and heartbreak of early adulthood, while celebrating friendship, love, and the bonds of home. With its breezy humour and heartfelt moments, it has become a comfort watch for many. You can stream Bangalore Days on JioHotstar and relive its timeless charm.
10. Premam (2015)
Director: Alphonse Puthren
Cast: Nivin Pauly, Sai Pallavi, Madonna Sebastian, Anupama Parameswaran
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
Premam (2015) is a cultural phenomenon in Malayalam cinema, a nostalgic coming-of-age romance that continues to resonate with audiences. Directed by Alphonse Puthren, it follows George, played by Nivin Pauly, through three stages of his youth, each defined by a love story that shapes him in unexpected ways. Alongside him are Sai Pallavi, Madonna Sebastian, and Anupama Parameswaran, each leaving a lasting mark. With its chart-topping songs, youthful energy, and heartfelt emotions, the film struck a chord far beyond Kerala. It’s breezy, funny, and bittersweet all at once. You can watch Premam on JioHotstar and see why it remains a modern classic.
11. Hridayam (2022)
Director: Vineeth Sreenivasan
Cast: Pranav Mohanlal, Kalyani Priyadarshan, Darshana Rajendran
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Hridayam (2022) is a heartfelt coming-of-age story directed by Vineeth Sreenivasan that traces the journey of Arun, played by Pranav Mohanlal, from college days to adulthood. Along the way, he navigates love, heartbreak, friendships, and self-discovery, with Kalyani Priyadarshan and Darshana Rajendran adding depth to his story. What sets the film apart is its sincerity—it captures the bittersweet messiness of youth without ever feeling forced. Backed by Hesham Abdul Wahab’s memorable soundtrack and Vineeth’s tender direction, it feels both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Stream Hridayam on JioHotstar to experience a film that speaks to the heart across generations.
12. Premalu (2024)
Director: Girish A. D.
Cast: Naslen, Mamitha Baiju, Sangeeth Prathap
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Premalu (2024) is a breezy romantic comedy that captured the hearts of young audiences with its charm and humour. Directed by Girish A. D., it follows Sachin, a lovestruck engineering graduate played by Naslen, whose plans to move abroad get sidetracked when he falls for Mamitha Baiju’s character. Set in the vibrant backdrop of Hyderabad, the film thrives on witty dialogue, relatable situations, and a refreshing energy that makes it endlessly rewatchable. With its light tone and infectious chemistry between the leads, Premalu proves that Malayalam cinema excels in rom-coms too. You can watch Premalu on JioHotstar and enjoy one of the year’s most delightful crowd-pleasers.
13. Romancham (2023)
Director: Jithu Madhavan
Cast: Soubin Shahir, Arjun Ashokan, Chemban Vinod Jose
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Romancham (2023) is a horror-comedy that turned into a sleeper hit with its quirky mix of scares and laughs. Directed by Jithu Madhavan, it’s based on a true story about a group of bachelors in Bengaluru who decide to try a Ouija board for fun—and end up with more than they bargained for. Soubin Shahir and Arjun Ashokan lead an ensemble cast that perfectly captures the chaos of shared living, turning everyday banter into comedy gold. What makes the film work is its balance: it’s genuinely funny while still keeping the supernatural edge alive. Stream Romancham now on JioHotstar to see why it became a cult favourite almost overnight.
14. Annayum Rasoolum (2013)
Director: Rajeev Ravi
Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Andrea Jeremiah, Sunny Wayne, Shine Tom Chacko
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Annayum Rasoolum (2013) is a tender love story set in the heart of Kochi, directed by Rajeev Ravi. Fahadh Faasil plays Rasool, a Muslim taxi driver who falls deeply for Anna, a Latin Catholic salesgirl played by Andrea Jeremiah. Their romance unfolds slowly, through stolen glances and whispered conversations, while the city’s bustling streets provide a textured backdrop. The film is praised for its realism—eschewing melodrama for subtle, lived-in moments that feel achingly true. With soulful music and atmospheric cinematography, it’s a film that lingers long after it ends. You can watch Annayum Rasoolum on JioHotstar and experience one of Malayalam cinema’s most poignant modern romances.
15. Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022)
Director: Vipin Das
Cast: Darshana Rajendran, Basil Joseph, Aju Varghese
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey (2022) is a sharp social satire wrapped in comedy, directed by Vipin Das. Darshana Rajendran stars as Jaya, a young woman trapped in a stifling marriage who decides to fight back in her own inventive ways. Basil Joseph plays her domineering husband with surprising comic timing, turning their domestic battles into scenes that are both funny and biting. What makes the film stand out is how it balances humour with a clear-eyed critique of gender roles in Indian households. It’s entertaining, thought-provoking, and immensely relatable. Stream Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey on JioHotstar for a witty take on love, power, and resistance.
16. Manjummel Boys (2024)
Director: Chidambaram
Cast: Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Balu Varghese, Ganapathi, Lal Jr.
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Manjummel Boys (2024) is a riveting survival thriller based on a true incident that shook Kerala. Directed by Chidambaram, it follows a group of friends on a trip to Kodaikanal that turns into a nightmare when one of them falls into the infamous Guna Caves. What begins as carefree fun quickly becomes a desperate rescue mission, testing courage, loyalty, and friendship. With standout performances from Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, and Balu Varghese, the film balances emotional weight with edge-of-the-seat tension. Its technical finesse and raw storytelling made it one of the most talked-about films of the year. You can watch Manjummel Boys on JioHotstar and relive this unforgettable story of survival and brotherhood.
17. Falimy (2023)
Director: Nithish Sahadev
Cast: Basil Joseph, Jagadish, Manju Pillai, Sandeep Pradeep
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Falimy (2023) is a quirky family dramedy that takes a dysfunctional household on a road trip they won’t forget. Directed by Nithish Sahadev, the film stars Basil Joseph, Jagadish, and Manju Pillai in a story about three generations forced to travel together, confronting grudges, misunderstandings, and the odd moments of affection that bind them. The humour is gentle, never mocking, and the emotional beats sneak up on you when least expected. With its slice-of-life charm and relatable characters, Falimy is both entertaining and heartwarming. Stream Falimy on JioHotstar for a film that feels like an honest peek into any Indian family.
18. Ohm Shanthi Oshaana (2014)
Director: Jude Anthany Joseph
Cast: Nazriya Nazim, Nivin Pauly
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Ohm Shanthi Oshaana (2014) is a delightful romantic comedy told from a woman’s perspective, a refreshing change for Malayalam cinema at the time. Directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, it stars Nazriya Nazim as Pooja, a spirited young woman who takes charge of her own love story when she falls for Nivin Pauly’s reserved Giri. The film is light, charming, and full of memorable moments that have given it enduring popularity. Its music, humour, and Nazriya’s effervescent performance make it a joy to revisit even years later. You can watch Ohm Shanthi Oshaana on JioHotstar and enjoy one of the most beloved feel-good films of the last decade.
19. Kishkindha Kaandam (2024)
Director: Dinjith Ayyathan
Cast: Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, Vijayaraghavan, Jagadish, Ashokan
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Blending mythic echoes with a contemporary thriller setup, Kishkindha Kaandam is set in a forest‑fringe village where an ex‑army man’s disappearance rekindles buried secrets. Asif Ali leads with brooding intensity, and Aparna Balamurali brings warmth and grit to the family dynamics. Vijayaraghavan’s towering presence adds gravitas, anchoring a story that builds slow dread rather than cheap shocks. It’s a film that reminds us Malayalam thrillers excel at suspense rooted in character and memory rather than gimmickry.
20. Nna Thaan Case Kodu (2022)
Director: Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval
Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Gayathrie (Gayathrie Shankar), Rajesh Madhavan, Unnimaya Prasad
IMDb Rating:Â 7.0 / 10
Nna Thaan Case Kodu (2022) is a sharp courtroom satire directed by Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval. Kunchacko Boban plays a reformed petty thief who decides to sue the government after a bizarre accident involving a minister’s convoy. What follows is both hilarious and hard-hitting, as the courtroom becomes a stage to expose political arrogance, bureaucratic apathy, and the struggles of ordinary citizens. The film’s humour never undercuts its message, and real-life lawyer P. P. Kunhikrishnan, in a scene-stealing turn as the judge, adds an extra layer of authenticity. With its wit and bite, Nna Thaan Case Kodu has become one of Malayalam movie’s smartest satires in recent years that you can stream it now on JioHotstar.
