Top Imdb Rated Malayalam Movies Best — Instant
Top IMDb Rated Malayalam Movies: A Treasure Trove of Cinema
Malayalam cinema, also known as Mollywood, has gained immense popularity in recent years for its thought-provoking and entertaining films. The industry has produced some exceptional movies that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Here are some of the top IMDb rated Malayalam movies that you shouldn't miss:
1. Take Off (2017) - 8.1/10 Directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan's former assistant, this film is based on a true story. The movie revolves around a group of journalists who go undercover to expose human trafficking.
2. Udyanapalakan (2012) - 8.1/10 This biographical drama film is based on the life of Kunchacko, a renowned Malayali film producer. The movie explores his journey from a small-town boy to a successful filmmaker.
3. Sufi Parva: A Love Story (2010) - 8.0/10 This romantic drama film tells the story of a young Sufi musician who falls in love with a free-spirited woman. The movie explores themes of love, spirituality, and self-discovery. top imdb rated malayalam movies best
4. Angamaly Diaries (2017) - 7.9/10 This dark comedy thriller film follows the story of a young man who gets involved in a series of misadventures in Angamaly, a small town in Kerala.
5. Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2012) - 7.9/10 This crime drama film explores the rivalry between two police officers, Ayyappan and Koshy, who come from different backgrounds.
6. Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu (1996) - 7.8/10 This classic Malayalam film is a comedy-drama that explores the lives of two families living in a small village.
7. Churuli (2021) - 7.8/10 This psychological thriller film tells the story of two men who get trapped in a mysterious situation while on a trekking trip. Top IMDb Rated Malayalam Movies: A Treasure Trove
8. Jallikattu (2019) - 7.7/10 This action-thriller film is based on the short story "Goat" by F. Paul Wilson. The movie follows a group of men who are trapped in a mysterious situation during a traditional bull-taming festival.
9. Sudani from Nigeria (2018) - 7.7/10 This sports drama film tells the story of a Nigerian football player who gets stranded in Kerala and finds love and support from a local.
10. Hishab (2020) - 7.6/10 This psychological thriller film explores the theme of child abuse and the consequences of keeping secrets.
These top IMDb rated Malayalam movies showcase the diversity and richness of Malayalam cinema. From thought-provoking dramas to entertaining thrillers, there's something for every kind of audience. If you're new to Malayalam cinema, these films are an excellent starting point to explore the world of Mollywood! IMDb highlight: A classic with enduring acclaim
2. Kireedam (1989) — Director: Sibi Malayil
- IMDb highlight: A classic with enduring acclaim.
- Why it stands out: A tragic drama exploring fate and societal pressures. Mohanlal’s performance as a young man pushed toward violence is widely regarded as one of his finest.
- Watch if you like: Emotional realism and powerful acting.
Final Take: Where to Start?
If you are new to Malayalam cinema, start with Drishyam (for thrills) or Kumbalangi Nights (for emotion). If you are a seasoned cinephile, Manichitrathazhu will prove why old is gold.
IMDb ratings fluctuate slightly over time, but these titles have remained at the top for years—proof that great cinema transcends language.
Happy watching! Have you seen all of these top-rated gems?
5. Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016) — Director: Dileesh Pothan
- IMDb highlight: A modern classic with strong ratings and wide appeal.
- Why it stands out: A slice-of-life comedy-drama about a photographer seeking simple, human justice. Noted for its warmth, humor, and realistic dialogue.
- Watch if you like: Small-town stories with gentle humor and heart.
2. Drishyam (2013)
The Game Changer
- Genre: Crime Thriller / Drama
- Why it’s a Masterpiece: Before Drishyam, the "common man thriller" was a rarity in Indian cinema. Mohanlal delivers a career-defining performance as Georgekutty, an uneducated cable TV operator who uses his cinematic knowledge to protect his family from the law. The script is tight, intelligent, and keeps you guessing until the very end.
- The Legacy: This film put Malayalam cinema on the global map for mainstream audiences and spawned a massively successful pan-Indian franchise.
4. Drishyam (2013) – IMDb: 8.6
The film that put Malayalam cinema on the global map. Mohanlal plays a common cable TV operator who goes to extreme lengths to protect his family after a terrible accident. The cat-and-mouse game with the police is so brilliantly written that it has been remade in 6 languages (including Chinese and Korean).