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Malayalam cinema delivered one of its strongest years in 2026 with a perfect mix of blockbuster sequels, critically acclaimed dramas, action entertainers, and unique comedies. From the record-breaking Drishyam 3 and Aadu 3 to surprise hits like Chatha Pacha, Prakambanam, and Balan, here's a curated list of the best Malayalam movies of 2026, along with their release dates, verdicts, and where you can stream them on OTT today.
Chatha Pacha is a Malayalam action comedy directed by Adhvaith Nayar. The film stars Arjun Ashokan, Roshan Mathew, Vishak Nair, and Ishan Shoukath in the lead roles. The movie was released in theatres on January 23, 2026. Blending action, comedy, and youthful entertainment, Chatha Pacha emerged as one of the surprise commercial hits of the year, winning praise for its energetic performances, quirky humor, and engaging screenplay. Chatha Pacha is now streaming on Netflix.
Prakambanam is a Malayalam emotional drama directed by Renjith Sankar. The film stars Aju Varghese, Sharaf U Dheen, Aparna Balamurali, and Meera Jasmine in the lead roles. The movie was released in theatres on January 30, 2026. With its emotionally compelling narrative, realistic performances, and socially relevant themes, Prakambanam received widespread critical acclaim and was hailed as one of the finest Malayalam dramas of the year. Prakambanam is now streaming on Manorama MAX.
Aadu 3 is a Malayalam comedy entertainer directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas. The film stars Jayasurya, Saiju Kurup, Vinayakan, Vijay Babu, and Dharmajan Bolgatty in the lead roles. The movie hit theatres on March 27, 2026. Continuing the madness of the popular franchise, Aadu 3 entertained audiences with its trademark humor, memorable characters, and hilarious moments, becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2026. Aadu 3 is now streaming on ZEE5.
Vaazha 2 is a Malayalam comedy-drama directed by Anand Menen. The film stars Basil Joseph, Siju Sunny, Joemon Jyothir, and Amith Mohan Rajeswari in the lead roles. The movie was released in theatres on April 10, 2026. Carrying forward the charm of its predecessor, Vaazha 2 impressed audiences with its relatable humor, heartfelt emotions, and entertaining storytelling, emerging as one of the biggest youth-oriented hits of the year. Vaazha 2 is now streaming on JioHotstar.
Mohiniyattam is a Malayalam dark comedy drama directed by Jis Joy. The film stars Saiju Kurup, Shine Tom Chacko, Nyla Usha, and Sminu Sijo in the lead roles. The movie was released in theatres on April 17, 2026. Featuring an engaging blend of humor, emotions, and social satire, Mohiniyattam earned widespread critical acclaim for its refreshing screenplay and outstanding performances, making it one of the most acclaimed Malayalam films of 2026. Mohiniyattam is now streaming on Netflix.
Athiradi is a Malayalam action comedy directed by Arun Anirudhan. The film stars Tovino Thomas, Basil Joseph, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Darshana Rajendran, and Riya Shibu in the lead roles. Released in theatres on May 1, 2026, the film struck the perfect balance between action, comedy, and friendship, receiving positive reviews from both audiences and critics. Thanks to its entertaining screenplay and stellar performances, Athiradi became one of the notable commercial successes of the year. Athiradi is now streaming on Sony LIV.
Drishyam 3 is a Malayalam crime thriller directed by Jeethu Joseph. The film stars Mohanlal, Meena, Ansiba Hassan, Esther Anil, Siddique, and Asha Sharath in the lead roles. Drishyam 3 was released in theatres on May 21, 2026. Continuing Georgekutty's iconic journey, the film delivered another gripping mystery with an intelligent screenplay, suspense-filled narrative, and Mohanlal's stellar performance, becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of 2026. Drishyam 3 is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Balan: The Boy is a Malayalam psychological mystery thriller written by Jithu Madhavan and directed by Chidambaram. The film stars Adhisheshan and Farzana Palathingal in the lead roles, alongside Muhammed Zinaan, Dolly June, Jean Paul Lal, Girish A.D., Beena Antony, and Tovino Thomas in a pivotal role. Balan: The Boy was released in theatres on June 19, 2026, simultaneously in Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Kannada. Set against the backdrop of picturesque rural landscapes and dense forests, the film blends child drama, emotional mother-son bonding, and psychological survival thriller elements, earning praise for its heartfelt storytelling and emotionally satisfying climax. Balan: The Boy is yet to announce its official OTT streaming platform.
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