Here’s a detailed review and retrospective of the best Malayalam movies of 2017—a landmark year often hailed as the beginning of the "new wave" or the Malayalam cinema renaissance. 2017 wasn't just a good year for Malayalam cinema; it was transformative. The industry moved decisively away from formulaic star vehicles toward content-driven, realistic, and genre-bending films. This was the year when "small films" with strong scripts started consistently outperforming big-budget masala movies at the box office. Directors like Lijo Jose Pellissery, Mahesh Narayan, and Dileesh Pothan became household names, and actors like Fahadh Faasil, Tovino Thomas, and Nivin Pauly redefined stardom through risky, unconventional choices.
Despite being overshadowed by the actor Dileep’s legal controversies, Ramaleela is a sharp political thriller. It openly allegorizes the Ramayana with modern power politics. The screenplay by Sachy is tight, and the twist in the third act is genuinely shocking. The film’s cynical take on democracy and media manipulation feels prescient. Verdict: Watch it for the script, not the star. 7. Godha (The Wrestler) Director: Basil Joseph Cast: Tovino Thomas, Wamiqa Gabbi, Renji Panicker 2017 best malayalam movies
The only "star vehicle" on this list that worked. Villain is not a great film, but it’s a well-made commercial thriller. Mohanlal’s restrained performance as a grieving, morally gray cop elevates the material. The twist about the killer’s identity is genuinely clever. However, the film suffers from a bloated second half and underutilized supporting cast. Verdict: A solid one-time watch for Mohanlal fans. 10. Parava (The Pigeon) Director: Soubin Shahir Cast: Amal Shah, Shane Nigam, Dulquer Salmaan (extended cameo) Here’s a detailed review and retrospective of the
A masterclass in minimalist storytelling. The film has no songs, no fight scenes, and no villain in the traditional sense—yet it’s gripping. Fahadh Faasil as the stoic, unpredictable thief Prasad is a revelation, but Suraj Venjaramoodu (as the sub-inspector) delivers a career-best performance, oscillating between comic exasperation and quiet authority. The script by Sajeev Pazhoor is razor-sharp, using a single incident to critique the absurdities of the legal system and human ego. Verdict: A near-perfect satire-drama. Essential viewing. 2. Take Off Director: Mahesh Narayan Cast: Parvathy Thiruvothu, Kunchacko Boban, Fahadh Faasil, Asif Ali This was the year when "small films" with
A wanted fugitive and a struggling actress, former lovers, cross paths again in the backwaters of Kerala. Their past and a looming crime threaten their second chance.
Below is a detailed review of the top 10 Malayalam movies of 2017, categorized by impact and craft. (The Lead and the Witness) Director: Dileesh Pothan Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Nimisha Sajayan