Malayalam Cinema in 2020: A Year of Innovative Storytelling

The film industry, including the rich and diverse Malayalam cinema, faced unprecedented challenges in 2020. With the onset of the pandemic, filmmakers had to adapt and find new ways to tell their stories. Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Jio Cinema, and other platforms emerged as key players in the distribution of these films, allowing audiences to experience them from the comfort of their homes. This article explores some of the best Malayalam movies of 2020, highlighting their uniqueness and critical acclaim.

The Best Malayalam Movies in 2020

2020 marked a significant year for Malayalam cinema, with several films receiving critical acclaim for their strong storytelling, nuanced performances, and insightful exploration of social and cultural themes. Here are some of the standout titles from that year:

C U Soon

Director: Mahesh Narayanan
Cast: Fahadh Faazil, Roshan Mathew, Darshana Rajendran
Synopsis: This gripping thriller is a unique tale told completely on iPhone during the lockdown. Mahesh Narayanan follows the investigation of a woman's mysterious disappearance through digital screens, making it the first computer screen film in India.

Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video

Halal Love Story

Director: Zakariya Mohammed
Cast: Fahadh Faazil, Nazriya Nazim, Gautham Menon
Synopsis: This comedy-drama explores the challenges faced by a group of filmmakers trying to create a movie within the constraints of their religious beliefs, providing a unique lens into Keralan culture and society.

Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video

Aarkkariyam

Director: Biju Ayinipally
Cast: Mamta Mohandas, Reba Monica John
Synopsis: This thoughtful drama delves into the relationship between an elderly couple and their daughter, offering a nuanced exploration of family dynamics and cultural legacies.

Streaming Platforms: Netflix

Moothon

Director: Geetu Mohandas
Synopsis: Directed as a neo-noir film, this story unfolds a young boy's search for his missing older brother in the dark underbelly of Mumbai. Geetu Mohandas masterfully mixes mystery and urban myth.

Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video

Biriyani

Director: Aashiq Abu
Synopsis: A dark comedy, Biriyani satirizes Kerala's political and social landscape through the lens of a family feud over a valuable biriyani recipe. Aashiq Abu deftly combines humor and social critique.

Streaming Platforms: Amazon Prime Video

In addition to these critically acclaimed films, there are several other noteworthy movies from 2020:

Recent Recommended Films

The Great Indian Kitchen

Synopsis: This film offers a delightful look at the culinary journey of a family. From traditional recipes to cutting-edge cooking, The Great Indian Kitchen promises an engaging and flavor-packed experience.

Joji

Synopsis: A gripping story centered around a journalist named Joji, who uncovers a series of dark secrets in his town. Joji challenges the status quo and pushes the boundaries of journalism.

Drishyam 1 and 2

Synopsis: These crime thrillers follow the story of a group of friends who aim to avenge the death of their friend by framing a corrupt police officer. The films blend suspenseful plot twists with compelling performances.

Love

Synopsis: This romantic comedy-touted delivers a refreshing take on love and relationships. The film follows a group of friends as they navigate their lives, love, and the complexities of modern relationships.

Trance

Synopsis: Trance is a must-watch psycho thriller. The story follows a person who aspires to become a motivational speaker. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is hired by a corporate as a pastor who can perform miracles. Trance explores themes of faith, doubt, and the power of suggestion.

Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video

Varane Avashyamund

Synopsis: A heart-warming tale set in Chennai, this film follows the lives of different people sharing a common apartment. It offers a feel-good experience, free from dramatic twists and turns, making it perfect for a peaceful evening.

Streaming Platform: Netflix

Kilometers and Kilometers

Synopsis: This film follows a U.S. resident who returns to India on a trip. She experiences various incidents and learns to appreciate the importance of family and Indian culture. Kilometers and Kilometers is a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and heartfelt moments.

Streaming Platform: Netflix

Direct Release: The film premiered on Asianet, a prominent Malayalam television channel during the festival season of Onam.

C U Soon (Live Release in Asianet)

Synopsis: This film tells the story of a woman’s mysterious disappearance through the lens of digital screens. It is directed by Mahesh Narayanan and is unique for its iPhone-shot scenes during the lockdown period.

Streaming Platform: Amazon Prime Video