Arguably the most anticipated Malayalam film of the decade, L2: Empuraan is the second installment in the Lucifer franchise. Following the earth-shattering climax of the first part, this pan-Indian big-budget action drama promises to expand the universe internationally. With Mohanlal returning as the enigmatic Stephen Nedumpally/Kaimal , and Prithviraj doubling down on his directorial vision, fans expect a political thriller of epic proportions. The teaser has already broken records, hinting at global conspiracies and jaw-dropping action sequences. (Late 2025) Director: Tharun Moorthy | Starring: Mohanlal
While Empuraan is the spectacle, Thudarum (The Vehicle) is the heart. Reuniting Mohanlal with Operation Java director Tharun Moorthy, this film is a character-driven travelogue/road drama. The first look featured Mohanlal in a rugged, weathered avatar, suggesting a grounded story about a cab driver or transporter. Known for subtle emotional storytelling, Tharun Moorthy is expected to extract a career-best performance from the superstar in this realistic setting. (Late 2025) Director: Deeno Dennis | Starring: Mammootty, Gautham Vasudev Menon malayalam movies upcoming releases
From the directors of the slick thriller Forensic comes Identity . Tovino Thomas is reportedly playing a character with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Teaming up with Trisha and Vinay Rai, this investigation thriller is expected to be high on technical finesse (cinematography by Akhil George) and plot twists. Given Tovino’s recent run ( Minnal Murali , 2018 ), this is a safe bet for a stylish blockbuster. (July 2025) Director: Vinay Govind | Starring: Unni Mukundan, Nikhila Vimal Arguably the most anticipated Malayalam film of the
Following the massive success of Hridayam , Vineeth Sreenivasan is back with what looks like a lighthearted family entertainer. The title suggests a satirical take on astrological compatibilities and the “caste” system in modern arranged marriages. Given Vineeth’s knack for writing relatable urban stories and soulful music (composed by his father, M. Jayachandran), this is poised to be the feel-good blockbuster of the mid-year. (Late 2025) Director: Jithin K. | Starring: Fahadh Faasil The teaser has already broken records, hinting at
Malayalam cinema, often hailed as the torchbearer of content-driven mainstream Indian filmmaking, shows no signs of slowing down. Following a spectacular 2024 that delivered global hits like Manjummel Boys , Aavesham , and Premalu , 2025 and beyond are already packed with intriguing projects. From high-octane action spectacles to quirky comedies and intense psychological thrillers, here are the upcoming Malayalam releases you need to have on your radar. 1. L2: Empuraan (Late 2025 / Early 2026) Director: Prithviraj Sukumaran | Starring: Mohanlal, Prithviraj, Tovino Thomas, Manju Warrier
The Mammootty-Kollywood wave continues. Bazooka has generated immense buzz for its stylized poster and unique premise. The teaser introduced Mammootty as a mysterious, possibly retired, quirky character with a penchant for chaos. With Vikram Vedha writer Deeno Dennis at the helm, expect a razor-sharp cat-and-mouse thriller laced with dark humor. Gautham Menon plays a pivotal role, and the film’s techno-music score by Midhun Mukundan adds to the intrigue. (December 2025 – Christmas Release) Director: Aashiq Abu | Starring: Vijayaraghavan, Dileesh Pothan, Anurag Kashyap