Overlooked and Underloved: 10 Malayalam movies from the last decade that deserve more love

Malayalam cinema, known for its bold storytelling and innovative filmmaking, has produced some of the most remarkable films in Indian cinema over the last decade. However, amidst the acclaim for blockbuster hits and award-winning masterpieces, some exceptional movies have flown under the radar, awaiting discovery by a wider audience. Here are 10 overlooked and underloved Malayalam movies from the last decade that deserve more love, more attention, and a spot on your watchlist.

Guppy (2016) 8.1/10 IMDb

'Guppy' is a heartwarming and visually stunning film that tells the story of a young boy's journey to fulfill his dreams. The movie follows the life of Guppy, a 12-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a scientist, despite his family's financial struggles. Chethan Jayalal shines in the title role, delivering a captivating performance that brings Guppy's spirit and determination to life, supported by a talented cast who add depth and warmth to the story. The movie's themes of hope, perseverance, and the power of imagination are inspiring and uplifting. 

Purusha Pretham (2023) 7.2/10 IMDb

'Purusha Pretham' a boastful cop's encounter with the Indian Penal Code's intricacies unfolds with dark humor and subtle craftsmanship. The film is a self-reflexive caricature of the hero, genre, and police system, offering no easy answers to systemic issues like lack of infrastructure. Through a series of human errors, the plot exposes the flaws in the system, deconstructing the police force into ordinary, yet extraordinary, individuals. The film's slow-burning narrative peels away the layers, revealing the raw truth that the system is comprised of imperfect human beings. 'Purusha Pretham' takes a bold and refreshing approach, allowing its dark humor and clever satire to shine through. 

Picket 43 (2015) 7.2/10 IMDb 

'Picket 43' is a haunting war drama that explores the psychological effects of isolation on a lone soldier, Hareendran Nair, at a remote border outpost. Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a standout performance, bringing depth to the character. The film's cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the stark beauty of the landscape and eerie atmosphere. The director's thoughtful approach creates tension and unease, drawing the viewer in. A slow-burning pace and minimalist approach add to the impact, making for a powerful and moving experience. It is a must-watch for fans of war dramas and meaningful storytelling.

Anuraga Karikkin Vellam (2016) 7.2/10 IMDb

'Anuraga Karikkin Vellam' is a heartwarming and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions. The movie tells the story of a police officer, Raghu, who is struggling to come to terms with his past and find love. The film boasts impressive performances from the cast, particularly Biju Menon, who shines as the troubled but lovable Raghu. The chemistry between the lead actors is undeniable, making their romance a joy to watch. It is a beautiful and emotional journey that will leave you smiling and introspective.

Njan Steve Lopez (2014) 7.2/10 IMDb

'Njan Steve Lopez' is a poignant and thought-provoking film exploring human relationships, identity, and social class complexities. The movie tells the story of Steve Lopez, a young man from a privileged background, and his journey of self-discovery. With a strong narrative and nuanced characters, the film delves into themes of love, friendship, and the struggles of growing up. Director Rajeev Ravi masterfully balances tone and pace, raising important questions about identity and morality. It is a must-watch for fans of meaningful cinema, with rich storytelling and unforgettable moments. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate meaningful storytelling.

Solo (2017) 7.1/10 IMDb 

'Solo' is a thought-provoking and visually stunning anthology film that explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions. The movie consists of four chapters, each with a unique story and characters, but all connected by the theme of loneliness and disconnection. Dulquer Salmaan delivers a standout performance, playing four distinct roles with ease and nuance. The supporting cast adds depth and complexity to each chapter, making for a compelling watch. The music adds to the film's emotional impact, making for a haunting and memorable experience. It is a masterpiece of storytelling and filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of conventional narrative structures.

Njandukalude Nattil Oridavela (2017) 7/10 IMDb

'Njandukalude Nattil Oridavela' explores the complexities of family relationships and the power of love. Written and directed by Althaf Salim, the film features an ensemble cast, including Nivin Pauly, Shanthi Krishna, and Lal. The story revolves around Kurien Chacko, a young man who returns home after a long absence to find his family in disarray. His mother, Sheela, is struggling to come to terms with her husband's infidelity, while his siblings are dealing with their own personal issues. As Kurien navigates his family's troubles, he discovers the importance of forgiveness, love, and acceptance. With its universal themes and relatable characters, it's a must-watch for anyone who values the power of love and connection.

Aarkkariyam (2021) 6.9/10 IMDb

'Aarkkariyam' is a slow-paced, slice-of-life film that explores the lives of a Malayali couple, Shirley and Roy, living in Mumbai during the 2020 lockdown. The story takes a turn when they visit Shirley's father in Kerala, where a long-buried secret is revealed. The film boasts realistic acting, at times. With a shorter runtime, it would have been a more engaging watch. Despite this, 'Aarkkariyam' is a good film with well-portrayed characters and multiple subplots that add depth to the narrative.

Ranam (2018) 6.4/10 

'Ranam' is a captivating crime drama that delves into the life of a gangster yearning to break free from his troubled past. Directed by Nirmal Sahadev, the film boasts a gripping narrative, despite some minor pacing issues and familiar tropes. The film's technical aspects are its strongest suit. The cinematography is breathtaking, with perfect lighting that immerses the viewer in the dark world of the gangsters. Jakes Bejoy's music is a revelation, hitting all the right notes and elevating the film's tension and emotional impact. The editing is seamless, making 'Ranam' a standout in the Malayalam gangster movie genre, rivaling Western dark urban mafia dramas. 

Double Barrel (2015) 5.7/10 IMDb

'Double Barrel' is an action-packed comedy thriller that follows the story of two friends, Panama and Lalu, who get caught up in a series of misadventures. With its unique blend of humour, style, and action, 'Double Barrel' is an entertaining ride from start to finish. The film's clever dialogue and witty one-liners add to its charm, making it a laugh-out-loud comedy. The director's bold approach and innovative storytelling keep viewers engaged, despite some flaws in the narrative. It is a fun, stylish, and action-packed film that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre. Its lighthearted tone and comedic moments make it a great choice for those looking for an entertaining watch.

(Compiled by Megha M)