Malayalam cinema is known for its unique storytelling, and its crime thrillers are no exception. These movies are packed with suspense, twists, and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re looking for a good Malayalam crime thriller to watch, here are 25 of the best:
22 Best Malayalam Crime Thriller Movies
Nayattu (2021)
A tense and gritty police procedural where three cops become fugitives after being wrongly accused, leading to a relentless chase with shocking consequences. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of police procedures and its exploration of power dynamics within the system.
Drishyam 2 (2021)
The brilliant sequel to a beloved classic. Years after seemingly getting away with murder, Georgekutty and his family must again outsmart the police as the past comes back to haunt them. Drishyam 2 became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time and was praised for its clever, suspenseful plot.
Iratta (2023)
Two estranged twin brothers, both police officers, find themselves on opposite sides of the law as their rivalry reaches a dangerous climax. Joju George’s dual performance in the film was lauded for its nuance and intensity.
Joseph (2018)
A retired police officer with uncanny investigative abilities delves into a mysterious hit-and-run case, uncovering a web of secrets and deceit. The film is known for its emotionally resonant story and its complex portrayal of grief and guilt.
Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020)
An explosive clash of egos between a principled policeman and a hot-headed ex-army officer escalates into a dangerous feud. The film’s realistic action sequences and exploration of male ego and its consequences garnered critical acclaim.
Kannur Squad (2023)
A gritty action thriller following an elite police team as they battle hardened criminals and a political conspiracy. Malayalam-language crime thriller film stars Mammootty, Rony David Raj, Azees Nedumangad, Shabareesh Varma, Kishore and Vijayaraghavan.
Anjaam Pathiraa (2020)
A brilliant psychologist assists the police in tracking down a ruthless serial killer who targets police officers. The film was celebrated for its stylish execution and dark, atmospheric tone, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Drishyam (2013)
A cinematic masterpiece where a humble family man resorts to extraordinary measures to protect his family after a tragic incident. The film was a major critical and commercial success, even spawning remakes in several other Indian languages.
Garudan (2023)
A college lecturer, Nishanth, and seasoned police officer, Harish Madhav, become entangled in a complex case, forcing them onto opposing sides. One must fight to uphold justice, while the other battles to protect his integrity and reputation in a high-stakes clash of wits. Garudan promises a thrilling legal battle with unexpected twists and turns as both men navigate a web of deceit.
Forensic (2020)
A meticulous forensic expert uses his brilliant mind to unravel the truth behind a series of child murders, uncovering sinister secrets. The film won praise for its focus on the science of forensics, delivering a fresh perspective within the crime thriller genre.
Rorschach (2022)
A mysterious man seeking vengeance weaves an elaborate psychological trap in this gripping neo-noir thriller. Rorschach starring Mammootty, Asif Ali, Sharaf U Dheen, and Grace Antony.
Paappan (2022)
An enigmatic retired cop knowns as “Paappan” is pulled back into action to solve a series of murders with a familiar pattern.
CBI 5: The Brain (2022)
The fifth installment in the iconic CBI series where a seasoned CBI officer investigates a political conspiracy linked to a series of deaths. starring Mammootty in lead produced by Swargachitra Appachan Directed by K.Madhu Written by S.N.Swamy and Music by Jakes Bejoy.
Cold Case (2021)
A parallel investigation ensues when a former cop and a crime journalist delve into a cold case that the police have seemingly given up on. Cold Case blends traditional investigative thriller elements with a touch of the supernatural, delivering a unique and spine-tingling experience.
Antakshari (2022)
A determined police officer, held hostage by a dangerous criminal, uses his wits and a traditional word game to manipulate a volatile situation and outsmart his captor.
Heaven (2022)
Heaven blends the crime thriller genre with elements of social commentary, exploring themes of justice, grief, and the complexities of human nature.
Joji (2021)
Inspired by Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Joji, the youngest son of a wealthy family, harbors twisted ambitions and a chilling desire for power. This dark psychological thriller follows his descent into ruthless machinations.
Varathan (2018)
A young couple’s peaceful move to a remote rural home turns into a nightmare when they face harassment and a menacing threat from local thugs. This gripping thriller explores themes of survival, power, and pushing back against oppression.
Luca (2019)
A Kochi-based scrap artist named Luca and his girlfriend Niharika find their lives intertwined with a mysterious investigation. The Malayalam thriller stas Tovino Thomas and Ahaana Krishna.
12th Man (2022)
A group of eleven friends reunite for a bachelor party at a remote bungalow, where secrets and tensions simmer amidst the revelry. When a mysterious death occurs, they become suspects in this classic whodunit thriller.
Mumbai Police (2013)
ACP Antony Moses, recovering from a traumatic accident and memory loss, sets out to retrace the events of a crucial investigation. This layered thriller blurs the lines between past and present, memory and reality. The film features a surprise twist and is known for its stylish execution and gritty action sequences.
7th Day (2014)
Just before Christmas, an ex-convict attempts to track down his stolen bike, leading him on an unexpected and dangerous journey that unravels a larger conspiracy.
Also Read – Upcoming Malayalam Movies OTT Release Dates & Digital Rights 2024
So, that’s all we have about Best Malayalam Crime Thriller Movies, These movies are sure to keep you entertained and guessing until the very end. So what are you waiting for? Start watching today!
