1. Drishyam (2013)

"Drishyam," directed by Jeethu Joseph, is a landmark film in the Malayalam thriller genre. Starring Mohanlal, the movie tells the story of a man who goes to extraordinary lengths to protect his family from the law. Its intricate plot and unexpected twists have made it a classic. The film’s gripping narrative and Mohanlal’s stellar performance make it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.

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2. Manichitrathazhu (1993)

"Manichitrathazhu," a psychological thriller directed by Fazil, features Shobana in a National Award-winning role. The film explores themes of mental illness and supernatural occurrences within a traditional Kerala mansion, creating a perfect blend of suspense and horror. Its unique storyline and memorable performances have earned it a cult status in Indian cinema.

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3. Mumbai Police (2013)

"Mumbai Police," directed by Rosshan Andrrews, is a gripping thriller featuring Prithviraj Sukumaran as a police officer who loses his memory while investigating a case. The film's nonlinear narrative and shocking climax make it a must-watch. Prithviraj’s portrayal of a complex character dealing with memory loss and a high-stakes investigation is both intense and captivating.

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4. Memories (2013)

Directed by Jeethu Joseph, "Memories" stars Prithviraj Sukumaran as an alcoholic cop dealing with personal loss while tracking a serial killer. The film is noted for its intense narrative and Prithviraj's compelling performance. The dark and moody atmosphere of the film, combined with its engaging storyline, makes it a standout in the thriller genre.

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5. Anjaam Pathiraa (2020)

"Anjaam Pathiraa," directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, revolves around a criminologist helping the police to catch a serial killer. The movie’s intelligent plot and spine-chilling sequences make it one of the best psychological thrillers in Malayalam cinema. The film’s intricate storyline and Kunchacko Boban’s performance as the protagonist have been highly praised.

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6. Iratta (2024)

"Iratta," a gripping tale of revenge and justice, explores the darker sides of human nature. Directed by Rohith V.S., the film promises to be a thrilling experience with its intense narrative and strong performances. The storyline, filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

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7. Kuruthi (2021)

"Kuruthi," directed by Manu Warrier, is a socio-political thriller that deals with themes of communal tension and revenge. With Prithviraj Sukumaran delivering a powerful performance, the film’s gripping narrative and intense action sequences have been highly praised. The movie’s exploration of complex social issues through a thrilling plot has been well-received by audiences and critics alike.

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8. Dhoomam (2024)

"Dhoomam" is an upcoming thriller directed by Pawan Kumar with Fahadh Faasil. With a storyline that promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, this film is highly anticipated for its engaging plot and stellar cast. The movie’s innovative narrative structure and suspenseful elements make it one of the most awaited thrillers of the year.

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9. Anweshippin Kandethum (2024)

"Anweshippin Kandethum" directed by Tinu Pappachan, revolves around two major crimes that shook the state of Kerala and the subsequent inquiry into these cases by the Special Operations Police (SOP). The film masterfully intertwines these crime stories, building suspense and keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The meticulous detailing of the investigation process and the portrayal of the SOP’s efforts in unraveling the truth add layers of realism and authenticity to the narrative.

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10. Abraham Ozler (2024)

The Malayalam film industry continues to push the boundaries of storytelling with its latest offering, "Abraham Ozler." Directed by debutant newcomer Nissar, the movie stars Jayaram, Mammootty, Saiju Kurup, and Anaswara Rajan in pivotal roles. "Abraham Ozler" delves into the intricate personal and professional life of veteran cop Abraham Ozler, ACP of Trichur, as he is drawn into the dark and twisted world of a serial killing case. His portrayal of a seasoned cop grappling with the complexities of the case and his personal struggles is both compelling and realistic. Mammootty’s special appearance adds star power and depth to the narrative, while Saiju Kurup and Anaswara Rajan provide strong support, enhancing the film's emotional and dramatic appeal. Streaming now on Disney+ Hotstar, this film is a must-watch for fans of gripping crime thrillers.

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11. Drishyam 2 (2021)

Directed by Jeethu Joseph, "Drishyam 2" picks up where the first film left off, following Georgekutty and his family as they try to move on from the events of the first movie. However, new evidence comes to light, and the police reopen the investigation into the missing person case. Georgekutty must once again use his wits to outmaneuver the law and protect his family. "Drishyam 2" is celebrated for its seamless continuation of the original film’s story, offering new twists and deeper emotional stakes. Mohanlal delivers another compelling performance, while the film’s intricate plotting keeps the audience guessing until the very end. It is a rare sequel that matches the intensity of its predecessor.

IMDb Score: 8.4

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12. Ezra (2017)

Directed by Jay K, "Ezra" is a supernatural thriller that centers around Ranjan (Prithviraj Sukumaran), who moves into a new house with his wife. Strange occurrences begin to unfold when they acquire an antique Jewish box, which brings forth a dark spirit from the past. The film combines elements of horror with investigative thrills as the couple tries to uncover the origins of the haunting. "Ezra" is celebrated for its atmospheric horror, strong performances, and its intriguing blend of history and supernatural elements. The film’s suspenseful pacing and eerie visuals create a chilling experience, making it a standout in the Malayalam horror-thriller genre. Prithviraj’s nuanced performance and the film’s rich backstory keep viewers engaged until the end.

IMDb Score: 6.6

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13. Vettah (2016)

Directed by Rajesh Pillai, "Vettah" is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark corners of the human psyche. The film revolves around the investigation of a missing woman, with lead police officers Sreebala (Manju Warrier) and Xylex Abraham (Indrajith) trying to piece together the mystery. As the investigation deepens, the film reveals the emotional struggles and moral dilemmas of the characters involved. "Vettah" is celebrated for its emotionally charged narrative and exploration of guilt and redemption. The film’s psychological depth, combined with its well-crafted suspense, keeps the audience intrigued throughout. Strong performances from Manju Warrier and Indrajith elevate the film, making it a must-watch for fans of emotionally driven thrillers.

IMDb Score: 6.6

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14. The Great Indian Kitchen (2021)

Directed by Jeo Baby, "The Great Indian Kitchen" is a social thriller that offers a scathing critique of gender roles and the patriarchal system in traditional households. The film follows an unnamed woman (Nimisha Sajayan) as she navigates her role as a newlywed in a conservative family. As the daily drudgery of household chores takes a toll on her, she begins to question the power dynamics in her marriage."The Great Indian Kitchen" is celebrated for its bold storytelling, powerful performances, and its unflinching portrayal of societal norms. The film's slow-burning tension and its focus on the emotional and psychological impact of domestic life make it a unique entry in the thriller genre. Its commentary on patriarchy and the empowerment of women resonates deeply with viewers.‍

IMDb Score: 8.3

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Malayalam cinema continues to set high standards with its innovative and gripping thriller movies. From classic masterpieces to modern blockbusters, the films listed above showcase the best of the genre, offering a mix of psychological depth, intense action, and clever storytelling. As we look forward to upcoming releases, these movies are essential viewing for anyone who appreciates high-quality thrillers. Dive into the world of Malayalam thrillers and experience some of the most engaging cinema that India has to offer.

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