It feels like 2016 all over again in 2026. Nostalgia has completely taken over the internet. This wave follows the digital burnout many experienced last year. You might see your neighbor sharing behind-the-scenes photos from their proposal. Your favorite influencer is likely reminiscing about their humble beginnings. Amid this chaos, you could find yourself endlessly watching strangers relive moments that have nothing to do with you.
Let's save you from that brain rot.
Sometimes, revisiting the past means remembering things that truly mattered. For Keralites, who are born cinephiles, cinema stands as a prime example. Let's take a walk down memory lane together. We are not chasing clout or likes here. Instead, we aim to explore why 2016 became a defining moment for Malayalam cinema.
2016 served as a watershed year for Mollywood. The industry achieved a clear balance between formulaic commercial films and content-driven narratives. Hybrid genres emerged powerfully. Experimental content finally found its solid footing during this period.
Character-driven dramas and thrillers took center stage
Dileesh Pothan’s Maheshinte Prathikaaram became the breakout movie of the year. It did not chase otherworldly topics. Instead, it told the simple story of an ordinary man and his extraordinary grudge. Fahadh Faasil delivered a masterclass in subtle, nuanced acting through this film. Audiences witnessed not a star, but a genuine actor rising to prominence.
Rajeev Ravi’s Kammatipaadam and Rajesh Pillai’s Vettah followed a similar path in their own unique ways. The Vinayakan and Dulquer Salmaan starrer Kammatipaadam acted as a slow-burner. It meticulously dissected the lives of marginalized people and raw emotions. Meanwhile, the Kunchacko Boban and Manju Warrier film Vettah dug deep into the complex art of deception.
Coming-of-age tales captured young hearts
2016 was the year when Anandam ruled the hearts of millennials. Ganesh Raj helmed this coming-of-age film. It struck a powerful chord with the young audience instantly. Themes of friendship, romance, and self-discovery proved to be timeless trendsetters.
Khalid Rahman’s Anuraga Karikkin Vellam does not inherently fall into the coming-of-age category. Yet, it resonated deeply with audiences. The film explored romance and relationships across two different generations with remarkable sensitivity.
Films reinvented genres with fresh narratives
Until then, Malayalam audiences had hardly glimpsed the real lives of police officers. Abrid Shine's Action Hero Biju arrived as a breath of fresh air. This Nivin Pauly starrer presented a realistic police procedural wrapped in comedy. The hero here was not worshipped. The film stripped away all such pretense effectively.
Sameer Thahir’s Kali starred Dulquer Salmaan and Sai Pallavi. It tapped into an emotion typically woven into the hero's strengths. The unique approach and compelling performances grabbed everyone's attention for all the right reasons.
Bold experiments proved star power is trivial
Star power becomes trivial in truly content-driven tales. Consider Sanal Kumar Sasidharan’s Ozhivudivasathe Kali or Nadirshah’s Kattappanayile Rithwik Roshan. Both films belonged to two different schools of filmmaking. Yet, they proved convincingly that films need actors, not just stars.
Ranjith took a bold bet with Leela. It marked a clear departure from his usual filmography. Monsoon Mangoes starring Fahadh Faasil followed a similar experimental path. Directors like Shanavas K Bavakkutty with Kismath, Jeethu Joseph with Oozham, and Shyama Prasad with Elektra ventured into unknown territory. Remarkably, they still found their dedicated audience.
Actioners and blockbuster entertainers ruled the box office
Mohanlal’s Pulimurugan catered to the large section of the audience who enjoy action, humor, and sentiments. It emerged as the first Rs 100 crore project from the Malayalam film industry. Several other films found their audience successfully that year.
The list includes Darvinte Parinamam, Puthiya Niyamam, Guppy, King Liar, Jacobinte Swargarajyam, Annmariya Kalippilaanu, Marubhoomiyile Aana, Oppam, and Kochavva Paulo Ayyappa Coelho. Each film carved its own niche and attracted viewers.
Malayalam cinema truly had the best of both worlds in 2016. Arthouse ambitions received satisfying answers. Commercial viability was fulfilled impressively. If you have missed watching any of these landmark films, now is the perfect time to update your watchlist.
