Malayalam cinema has carved a niche for itself when it comes to storytelling, particularly in the crime and thriller genres. While movies like Drishyam, Mumbai Police, and Anjaam Pathiraa have earned wide acclaim, there are hidden gems that often fly under the radar. These underrated films pack powerful narratives, gripping tension, and stellar performances—but remain lesser known outside hardcore cinephile circles.
Here are 8 underrated Malayalam crime/thriller movies that deserve your attention:
1. Kaanekkaane (2021)
- Director: Manu Ashokan
- Starring: Suraj Venjaramoodu, Tovino Thomas, Aishwarya Lekshmi
A slow-burn psychological thriller that explores guilt, grief, and revenge. Kaanekkaane doesn't rely on action or gore but instead builds tension through moral dilemmas and emotional depth.
Why watch it?
Suraj Venjaramoodu delivers a haunting performance, and the layered storytelling keeps you hooked till the end.
2. Kali (2016)
- Director: Sameer Thahir
- Starring: Dulquer Salmaan, Sai Pallavi
Though primarily a romantic drama, Kali turns into a tense thriller halfway through. A simple roadside altercation spirals into something far more dangerous.
Why watch it?
Its minimal setting and strong emotional core make the thrill element feel raw and real.
3. Kuruthi (2021)
- Director: Manu Warrier
- Starring: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Roshan Mathew
Set in a remote forest home, this film is about ideology, justice, and communal tensions. It’s a taut, dialogue-heavy thriller that tackles heavy themes without losing pace.
Why watch it?
It offers nail-biting tension with powerful performances and a philosophical edge.
4. Shutter (2012)
- Director: Joy Mathew
- Starring: Lal, Sajitha Madathil
A confined-space thriller with a sharp social commentary. Shutter unfolds over a single day in a locked garage, making it an intense chamber piece.
Why watch it?
Its real-time feel and unpredictable storyline make it a gripping experience.
5. Kammara Sambhavam (2018)
- Director: Rathish Ambat
- Starring: Dileep, Siddharth, Murali Gopy
A political satire wrapped in the garb of a thriller. It examines how history can be manipulated through storytelling.
Why watch it?
Visually stunning and thematically bold—it’s different from typical thrillers.
6. Varthamanam (2021)
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- Director: Sidhartha Siva
- Starring: Parvathy Thiruvothu, Roshan Mathew
While it leans more into the political drama category, the underlying thriller elements and campus mystery make it worthy of this list.
Why watch it?
Strong script and performances that reflect the socio-political climate without being preachy.
7. Joseph (2018)
- Director: M. Padmakumar
- Starring: Joju George
A retired cop is drawn back into an investigation that hits close to home. Joseph blends emotional trauma with investigative suspense.
Why watch it?
Joju George’s nuanced performance and the film’s realistic portrayal of police work stand out.
Final Thoughts
Malayalam cinema continues to redefine what thrillers can be—deep, grounded, and emotionally resonant. These 8 underrated crime and thriller films might not have made the loudest noise at the box office, but they offer some of the most rewarding storytelling experiences.
So, if you’re a fan of gripping narratives, complex characters, and socially relevant themes, these hidden gems should be on your watchlist.
Which one are you watching first? Let me know in the comments or DM me for more recommendations!
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