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Curious about the top Malayalam movies available on OTT platforms in 2023? Malayalam cinema has been delivering outstanding movies and with the convenience of OTT platforms, you can easily check out these gems from the comfort of your home.
So which one should you add to your watch list this year? Well, you can check out this blog as we unveil the “Best Malayalam Movies on OTT 2023,” taking you on a cinematic journey filled with drama, emotion, and storytelling brilliance.
01. Kaapa
Platform: Netflix | Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller Release Date: 19 January 2023 | Director: Shaji Kailas | Cast: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Asif Ali, Anna Ben and more.
“Kaapa” takes us on a journey through the crime-infested streets of Thiruvananthapuram, diving into the world of gangsters and revenge. Anand, a techie, discovers that his wife, Binu Trivikraman, has been mistakenly added to the Kaapa list, a record maintained by her brother’s former gang. To protect his wife, Anand ventures into a perilous path and encounters Kotta Madhu, a ruthless gang leader aspiring for political power.
As the story unfolds, it explores the complexities of crime, vengeance, and the never-ending cycle that entangles its characters.
Prithviraj shines as Kotta Madhu, the local gangster, while Asif Ali delivers a remarkable performance as Anand, a determined but somewhat naive individual. While “Kaapa” lacks suspense due to heavy foreshadowing, it compensates with intense action scenes and a captivating musical score by Dawn Vincent.
02. Adrishyam
Platform: Amazon Prime | Genre: Drama, Mystery Thriller Release Date: 28 February 2023 | Director: Zac Harriss | Cast: Prithviraj Sharafudheen, Joju George, Narain and more.
“Adrishyam” presents an intriguing crime mystery, revolving around the search for a missing girl. Nandakumar and his team, along with other investigators, delve into the case, adding layers of complexity and suspense to the storyline. The film introduces elements such as idol theft and surrogacy, aiming to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns.
It successfully weaves together parallel investigations and keeps the audience guessing throughout. While some aspects may fall short of perfection, “Adrishyam” manages to deliver a captivating thriller that is worth watching for its intriguing plot and talented ensemble of actors.
03. Varayan
Platform: Amazon Prime | Genre: Drama, Action Release Date: 09 March 2023 | Director: Jijo Joseph | Cast: Siju Wilson, Maniyanpilla Raju, Jayashankar and more.
Here is a film which has a slightly different story! In the village of Kalippakkara, known for its idiosyncrasies and isolation, a series of events unfolds after the murder of the local parish priest. Father Aby Capuchin, a charming and artistic priest, is sent to take his place. With his arrival, the dynamics of the village change, revealing hidden truths and sparking unexpected relationships.
Despite some moments of incredibility, Siju Wilson’s portrayal of Father Aby and the performances of the supporting cast shine in this light-hearted film. “Kalippakkara” offers an entertaining watch for those willing to embrace its quirky narrative.
04. Vichithram
Platform: Amazon Prime | Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller | Release Date: 10 May 2023 | Director: Achu Vijayan | Cast: Kani Kusruti, Shine Tom Chacko, Thushara Pillai and more.
“Aachu Vijayan’s horror comedy, written by Nikhil Raveendran and Vineeth Jose, masterfully blends humour and terror to create a cathartic and entertaining experience. The film’s exceptional performances, particularly by Jolly Chirayath as Jasmine and Shine Tom Chacko, Balu Varghese, and others as her sons, add depth to the humour and thrills.
Each character, from a social media addict to an obsessed father, is crafted with engaging features. As the narrative progresses, the house, butterflies, bonsai trees, and rabbits become integral elements of the story, contributing to the film’s darker undertones. With impressive direction, cinematography, and sound design, this horror comedy delivers an enjoyable and immersive cinematic experience.
Also Read : List Of Best Punjabi Movies On Chaupal
05. Ayalvashi
Platform: Netflix | Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller | Release Date: 19 May 2023 | Director: Irshad Parari | Cast: Soubin Shahir, Binu Pappu, Gokulan and more.
Directed by Irshad Parari, “Ayalvaashi” attempts to portray how trivial misunderstandings can escalate into significant conflicts, impacting lives in unexpected ways. “Ayalvaashi” explores the consequences of a minor misunderstanding between neighbours Thajudeen (Soubin Shahir) and Benny (Binu Pappu).
When Benny suspects Thaju of scratching his scooter, their friendship unravels, causing a series of problems, including a failed business deal and strained relationships within their families. While exploring themes of friendship, family dynamics, and miscommunication, “Ayalvaashi” provides a delightful and relatable viewing experience, leaving audiences with a warm and lasting impression.
06. Oh Meri Laila
Platform: Amazon Prime | Genre: Comedy | Release Date: 19 July 2023 | Director: Abhishek K.S. | Cast: Antony Varghese, Sona Olickal, Athira Suresh and more.
“Oh, Meri Laila” is a campus romcom starring Malayalam actor Antony Varghese as Lailasuran, a college student who seems to be perpetually unlucky in love. The film takes its time to find its footing, with a meandering first half that may leave viewers wondering if it was entirely necessary. However, once the plot sheds its unnecessary threads and focuses on the central narrative, it becomes an enjoyable watch.
While the movie could have benefited from a crisper edit, especially in the first half, and a more engaging ending, it offers a breezy and fun cinematic experience, making it a decent choice for those in the mood for a lighthearted romantic comedy.
07. Padmini
Platform: Netflix | Genre: Comedy, Drama, Family | Release Date: 11 August 2023 | Director: Senna Hegde | Cast: Madonna Sebastian, Anaswara Rajan, Vincy Aloshious and more.
“Padmini” is an emotional yet light-hearted tale centred on Rameshan (Kunchacko Boban), a college lecturer whose wife vanishes on their wedding night. The film adeptly explores themes of trauma, societal toxicity, and human resilience in a relatable and humorous manner.
With its touching storyline, well-crafted characters, and a balanced mix of sadness and humour, “Padmini” offers a heartwarming cinematic experience worth savouring. The film artfully combines the trials of Rameshan’s life with moments of levity, making it both engaging and real. Vincy’s portrayal of Smrithi, the runaway wife, adds authenticity to the character’s self-centeredness.
08. Digital Village
Platform: Amazon Prime | Genre: Comedy | Release Date: 15 September 2023 | Director: Fahad Nandu, Ulsav Rajeev | Cast: Hrishikesh, K. Indira, Suresh Babu Kannom and more.
“Digital Village” is a Malayalam film directed by Ulsav Rajeev and Fahad Nandu. The movie features a diverse cast, including newcomers and local talents from Seethangoli and Kumbla. It explores the impact of technological advancements on rural India and promises an authentic and fascinating cinematic experience.
“Digital Village” explores the transformation of India’s villages in the face of technological advancements. The story unfolds in a small village located near the Kerala-Karnataka border, where the lives of young residents are intricately woven with the influence of technology.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, 2023 has already been a remarkable year for Malayalam cinema, with several outstanding films making their way to OTT platforms. These movies have not only showcased the immense talent within the industry but have also delighted audiences with their diverse themes, compelling narratives, and exceptional performances. As we move forward, the anticipation for more cinematic excellence remains high, making Malayalam cinema a thriving and essential part of the OTT landscape in 2023.
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