The one thing I love about Malayalam cinema is how content is above everything. Yes, star value does add to the publicity but no matter how big a star is, if the movie lacks quality content, it will never be accepted by the Malayali audience. That’s the reason why we have seen so many low-budget movies with fresh faces winning the box office. Here are some highest grossing Malayalam movies over the last couple of years that have set the cash registers ringing with innovative and engaging storytelling.

1. Manjummel Boys (2024)

Breaking through the barriers of conventional success, Manjummel Boys carved its name in history by shattering records and amassing a staggering 200 crores at the box office. But what truly sets this movie apart is not just its financial success, but the heartwarming and thrilling narrative it brings to life.

Based on a gripping true incident from 2006, the story unfolds in Manjummel, a small town in Kochi. It follows a close-knit group of friends, who like to call themselves “Manjummel Boys”, who embark on a life-changing vacation to Kodaikanal. Little do they know that this journey alters the course of their lives forever.

Upon its release, Manjummel Boys didn’t just make waves in Kerala; it captivated audiences across borders. Its magnetic charm extended to Tamil Nadu, where within a mere ten days, it raked in a staggering ₹15 crore, making it the highest-grossing Malayalam film in the state.

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2. 2018 (2023)

Right before Manjummel became the highest grossing Malayalam movie, the film that hailed this honor was 2018 directed by Jude Anthony Joseph.

Set against the backdrop of the catastrophic floods that ravaged Kerala and claimed the lives of over 300 individuals, 2018 serves as a poignant tribute to human resilience. Through its compelling narrative, the film sheds light on the indomitable spirit of the human heart, showcasing the unwavering courage and solidarity that emerged amidst the chaos and destruction.

It served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of forces beyond our control. 2018 made history as one of the highest-grossing Malayalam movies of its time, collecting around 177 crores. It was also India’s official selection to the Oscars that year.

3. Puli Murugan (2016)

Here’s the film that started it all, Puli Murugan directed by Vyshakh. Starring Mohanlal, Puli Murugan was brought to life on a budget of ₹25 crore. However, its impact far exceeded its modest origins, as it became the first Malayalam film to breach the ₹100 crore mark at the box office.

The story revolves around Murugan whose father was killed in a tiger attack while he was young. To seek his revenge the young Murugan traps the tiger and kills it. After growing up, Murugan still fights the tiger to save his fellow villagers from its threat. A certain set of events transpire that change the course of Murugan’s life forming the rest of the story.

With some thrilling action sequences and a modest story, Puli Murugan is a full-on action entertainer that does not disappoint. At the helm of it is Mohanlal, effortlessly and flexibly perfecting these action sequences, giving us major fitness goals.

4. Premalu (2024)

It’s hard to imagine that a rom-com could cross the 100-crore mark in Malayalam cinema, and that too with a bunch of young faces. This delightful film shattered expectations and left audiences rolling in laughter. Audiences found themselves swept away by the infectious humor in the movie.

Premalu serves up a simple yet utterly charming storyline that you just can’t get enough of. And let’s talk about the leads – Naslen and Mamita Baiju’s chemistry? Pure gold. Every star cast in the movie adds to the fun and humor of Premalu making it a thoroughly engaging movie.

Moreover, Premalu has set its story in Hyderabad, an underexplored location in Malayalam cinema, thus adding another refreshing element to the film. After its grand success in Malayalam, the film was dubbed in Tamil and Telugu and received the same love from the audiences there. Right before Manjummel Boys took over, Premalu was the highest grossing Malayalam movie of 2024.

5. Lucifer (2019)

Marking actor Prithviraj’s directorial debut, Lucifer didn’t just entertain – it captivated audiences with its thrilling and engaging political narrative.

At the heart of this political thriller is Mohanlal, whose portrayal of Stephen Nedumpally is nothing short of legendary. The charm and suave he brings to the character can’t be imitated by anyone else. With its gripping storyline and stellar performances, the film kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The film is packed with punch dialogues and some exciting action sequences making it a complete entertainer.

The film has a great ensemble that includes Manju Warrier, Tovino Thomas, Vivek Oberoi, Indrajith Sukumarn, and Sachin Khedekar.

Produced by Aashirvad Cinemas, Lucifer broke box office records collecting almost 128 crores, solidifying its place as one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films ever.