Tovino Thomas continues his experiment with genre films in this survival horror thriller. Thaaliol (translating to "Cradle") is set entirely inside an abandoned lighthouse where a young couple (Tovino and newcomer Anaswara Rajan) get trapped with a supernatural entity that mimics their infant’s cry. Directed by Rahul Sadasivan (of Bhoothakaalam fame), the film relies on deep, resonant sound design rather than jump scares. While the pacing is slow-burn, the final 20 minutes have been described as "traumatic brilliance." It performed exceptionally well in multiplexes in urban centers but saw moderate response in single screens. The OTT Darlings (Streaming May – June 2026) If you missed the theatrical window, the streaming giants have been quick to acquire Malayalam content, which often finds a larger audience here than in cinemas.
Furthermore, the relationship between OTT and theatres has stabilized. Theatres now hold films for a shorter 3-4 week window before they hit streaming, which has actually boosted footfall, as audiences want to avoid spoilers on social media. malayalam cinema latest releases
Malayalam cinema, affectionately known as Mollywood, continues its golden run. Coming off a historic 2024 and 2025 that saw global recognition for films like Aavesham , Manjummel Boys , and Bramayugam , the first half of 2026 has proven that the industry's focus on unique scripts, technical brilliance, and powerhouse performances is no fluke. From high-octane action thrillers to deeply rooted family dramas and experimental horror, here is an exhaustive look at the latest releases that have been dominating box offices and streaming platforms. The Theatrical Blockbusters (April – June 2026) The summer of 2026 brought a clash of titans and the rise of new-gen storytellers. Tovino Thomas continues his experiment with genre films
This is the talk of the town. Directed by the maverick filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, this film marks the return of Mohanlal in a full-fledged, mass-action avatar after a brief hiatus. Contrary to its title suggesting a remake, Jai Vakeel Saab is an original courtroom-action hybrid. Set against the backdrop of the gold smuggling scandals of the 1990s, Mohanlal plays a disgraced lawyer turned vigilante. Early reviews praise the film’s surreal visual grammar, a trademark of Pellissery, combined with a thunderous background score by Prashant Pillai. While critics are divided on the second half’s abrupt shift into magical realism, the film has already crossed the ₹100 crore mark globally within its first week. While the pacing is slow-burn, the final 20
Following the blockbuster success of the original anthology, Sthree 2 brings together three new female directors to tell intersecting stories of women in a Kerala fishing hamlet during a cyclone. Featuring Parvathy Thiruvothu, Anna Ben, and Grace Antony, this sequel ditches the horror element for psychological dread. It is a slow exploration of superstition and patriarchy. While some fans of the first part wanted more scares, critics have lauded it for its atmospheric cinematography (by Anend C. Chandran) and the haunting finale.
If you are looking for a brainless entertainer, Maryade Prashnam is your best bet. If you want to be challenged, try Peruvazhiyambalam or Adhava . And if you simply want to witness the evolution of a legend, watch Mohanlal in Jai Vakeel Saab . Malayalam cinema is not just keeping pace with world cinema; in terms of narrative risk-taking, it is leading the charge.
A direct-to-digital release that has sparked massive controversy and acclaim. Based on a true crime story from the late 1990s in Idukki, this film is directed by newcomer Arun Chandu. It follows a 45-year-old cold case involving a missing forest ranger. The film uses a mockumentary style, blending real interviews with fictional reenactments. Starring Joju George in a career-best performance as the haunted sub-inspector, the film is dark, gritty, and unflinching. Viewer discretion is advised for graphic violence.