Malayalam cinema 2024: Thrillers, action, comedies, fantasies and more are in the offing for cinephiles

Here are some of the most-awaited films of 2024 in Malayalam

Malayalam cinema is in a state of flux with top-ranking stars shaking off their image to experiment with characters and narratives. Leading the change is veteran Mammootty who had had a splendid 2023. In 2024, Mammootty is again taking on different roles and supporting themes that explore new ground.

Several younger actors such as Fahadh Faasil, Neeraj Madhav, Dulquer Salmaan, Prithviraj, Darshana Rajendran, Roshan Mathew, Manju Warrier, Nimisha Sajayan and many more in the industry are making a mark in pan-Indian films and series.

Here is a quick look at the films in 2024 that are eagerly awaited.

Disclaimer: There is always that dark horse that gallops past the favourites. Last year, it was Purusha Prethamand Romancham, a small-budget movie that raced past several big banners with stars.

Lijo Jose Pellissery’s Malaikottaai Vaaliban, starring Mohanlal in the lead, has been creating excitement since its announcement. Shot in Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the film is reportedly the story of a wrestler from pre-Independence India. Or is he a savant?

Releasing on January 25, the film has Lijo teaming with his favourite cinematographer Madhu Neelakandan and music director Prashant Pillai. The film has been scripted by PS Rafeeque, who had written Amen and Nayakan, both directed by Lijo.

Director Blessy, actor Prithviraj and the team completed the shooting of the film against great odds. It is based on Benyamin’s eponymous novel, which tells the gut-wrenching true story of Najeeb, a Keralite who gets trapped in slavery when he goes to West Asia for a job. Najeeb’s harrowing tale of misery and courage under fire when he is forced to work as a goatherd on a remote farm in Saudi Arabia has been shot on a rich canvas in Jordan and the Sahara. AR Rahman has composed for the film.