The prestige of Malayalam cinema surged significantly throughout 2023, a year marked by an abundant release schedule that reinforced the industry’s creative momentum. However, the excitement hadn’t been uniform, with only a selective group of films managing to court widespread audience engagement at the box office. As 2024 unfolds, keen observers of the industry might sense a turn in the tide, as an array of eagerly anticipated projects is slated to premiere, promising a cinematic feast.
At the vanguard of this slate of films are the veterans of Malayali cinema, the stalwarts whose star power continues to deliver. There appears to be a renaissance afoot, with several established actors embarking on roles that signal a significant rebirth in their career choices. As we brace for the offerings of 2024, let’s take a closer look at the films that are poised to captivate audiences.
‘Aattam,’ a foray into the world of stage artists, marks a striking start to the year as filmmaker Anand Ekarshi’s debut, promptly topping the list of must-see films after winning over festival crowds. With a scandal at its core, this drama traverses the life of its sole female troupe member, portrayed by Zarin Shihab, who navigates shattered self-regards and the simmering wrench of internal discord. Joining her are Vinay Forrt, Kalabhavan Shajon, and many other talented performers.
Venturing into an audacious rebranding, actor Jayaram delivers a tantalizing prospect in ‘Abraham Ozler’, under the direction of Midhun Manuel Thomas. This detective story hints at a struggle with insomnia, smack in the middle of unfolding mysteries. Adding to the intrigue, there’s murmuring of an appearance by none other than cinema icon Mammootty.
In what could be described as a historic pairing, director Lijo Jose Pellissery joins forces with the legendary Mohanlal for ‘Malaikottai Vaaliban’, touted as a period action spectacle. The film is steeped in mystery, with the industry tight-lipped on details, barring the release of a song, “Punnara Kattile Poovanatthil”, that has already received laudatory remarks.
Mammootty, in ‘Bramayugam’, again proves his mettle with role diversity, inciting substantial buzz with a duo of posters that have whipped social media into a frenzy. Directed by the cutting-edge Rahul Sadasivan, the film rides on consequential expectations.
In ‘Aadujeevitham’, director Blessy is adapting Benyamin’s poignant true tale of desert survival and enslavement into a cinematic masterpiece. Prithviraj Sukumaran has undergone an extensive physical transformation for the lead role, and with maestro A.R. Rahman’s music, this film has been years in the making.
Jithu Madhavan aims to build on the success of 2022’s horror-comedy ‘Romancham’ with ‘Aavesham’. The film, seemingly a spin-off, has generated considerable anticipation, especially with Fahadh Faasil headlining the poster. Audiences are left to wonder if the original cast will reassemble for this new chapter.
‘Mohanlal makes a bold foray into filmmaking with ‘Barroz’, his directorial debut, which has seen its share of drama with the exit of screenwriter Jijo Punnoose. However, the revelation of a New Year’s Day poster featuring Mohanlal in an ethereal 400-year-old guardian role has reignited fan fervor.
‘Ajayante Randam Moshanam’ carves out a space for fantasy under the directorial gaze of Jithin Laal, with Tovino Thomas at the helm. This debut, ambitiously scaled and eyeing broader markets, promises to merge folklore with fantasy.
Following ‘Hridayam’, director Vineeth Sreenivasan brings together Pranav Mohanlal and Kalyani Priyadarshan once again in ‘Varshangalkku Shesham’, which boasts a stellar ensemble and introduces indie artist Amrit Ramnath as a composer.
Lastly, ‘Sureshinteyum Sumalathayudeyum Hridayahariyaya Pranayakatha’ extends the universe of ‘Nna Thaan Case Kodu’, enriching it with the stories of endearing characters played by Rajesh Madhavan and Chithra, while Kunchacko Boban reignites the role of Kozhummal Rajeevan.
As the curtains rise on 2024, it’s patently clear that Malayalam cinema’s boats are all set to be lifted by this high tide of creative storytelling and cinematic brilliance. Mollywood aficionados have every reason to celebrate a year that promises rich narratives, stirring performances, and filmmaking magic that will resonate well beyond the picturesque borders of Kerala.
