The Malayalam film industry, affectionately known as Mollywood, has entered a spectacular new phase of global recognition and commercial success. For years, the industry was celebrated for its compelling narratives and artistic integrity, often with modest budgets. However, the recent past has witnessed a paradigm shift, with Malayalam cinema not only winning critical acclaim but also shattering box office records both domestically and internationally. This surge has redefined the commercial potential of Mollywood, placing it firmly on the global cinematic map.
The New Titans of Mollywood Box Office
The current landscape of the highest-grossing Malayalam films is dominated by recent blockbusters that have resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Topping the list is the survival thriller 'Manjummel Boys' (2024). Directed by Chidambaram and produced by Parava Films, this film has achieved a monumental feat by crossing the ₹240 crore mark in worldwide collections. Its gripping story, based on a real-life incident, and exceptional technical craftsmanship have made it a historic commercial success, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
Following closely is the epic survival drama 'Aadujeevitham' (The Goat Life) (2024). Directed by the acclaimed Blessy and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, this long-awaited adaptation of Benyamin's novel has garnered approximately ₹210 crore globally. The film's grand scale, immersive storytelling, and Prithviraj's transformative performance have captivated audiences, cementing its place as a landmark achievement in Indian cinema.
The Stalwarts and Surprise Entries
The list showcases a fascinating mix of superstar-driven projects and content-rich cinema. The magnum opus 'Lucifer' (2019), starring Mohanlal and directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, continues to hold a strong position with worldwide earnings of around ₹200 crore. It revolutionized the scale and ambition of Malayalam political thrillers.
Another Mohanlal starrer, 'Pulimurugan' (2016), was the first Malayalam film to breach the ₹100 crore barrier, a revolutionary moment at the time. It remains in the top echelons with about ₹175 crore, proving the lasting power of well-executed mass entertainers.
The list also includes the phenomenal success of '2018: Everyone is a Hero' (2023), Jude Anthany Joseph's gripping take on the Kerala floods, which collected over ₹170 crore. Furthermore, the action-packed 'Bheeshma Parvam' (2022) and the family drama 'Premalu' (2024) highlight the diverse genres that are finding massive commercial success. The inclusion of 'Varisu', the Tamil film starring Vijay, is noted as an error in some sources, as it is not a Malayalam production.
What This Means for the Future of Malayalam Cinema
This unprecedented box office performance signals a transformative era for Mollywood. The success of films like 'Manjummel Boys' and 'Aadujeevitham' proves that universal stories rooted in Malayali ethos can achieve pan-India and global appeal without compromising on narrative depth. It demonstrates a perfect synergy between content and commerce.
The key takeaways from this box office revolution are clear. Audiences are rewarding high-concept storytelling, superior production values, and emotional authenticity. The traditional boundaries of regional cinema are dissolving, as evidenced by the significant collections from markets outside Kerala. This success empowers filmmakers to dream bigger, invest more in production, and explore diverse genres with the confidence that there is a worldwide audience ready to embrace quality Malayalam cinema.
In conclusion, the list of the top 10 highest-grossing Malayalam films is no longer just about numbers; it's a testament to the industry's evolving creative confidence and expanding market. From the game-changing 'Pulimurugan' to the record-shattering 'Manjummel Boys', Mollywood's journey is a blueprint for how regional cinema can achieve global stature through the power of compelling stories.
