2017 Best Malayalam Movies [patched] Jun 2026

Vimaanam is based on the life of Saji Thomas, a hearing-impaired man who built an aircraft.

The only "star vehicle" on this list that worked. Villain is not a great film, but it’s a well-made commercial thriller. Mohanlal’s restrained performance as a grieving, morally gray cop elevates the material. The twist about the killer’s identity is genuinely clever. However, the film suffers from a bloated second half and underutilized supporting cast. Verdict: A solid one-time watch for Mohanlal fans.

Dileesh Pothan Starring: Suraj Venjaramoodu, Fahadh Faasil, Nimisha Sajayan 2017 best malayalam movies

A political drama where a man is forced to become a pawn (like a puppet Ram) in a corrupt election game, leading to a violent power struggle.

Pradeep M. Nair Starring: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Durga Krishna Vimaanam is based on the life of Saji

But as a whole, 2017 remains the gold standard for Indian regional cinema.

(The Lead and the Witness)

Arun Gopy Cast: Dileep (controversial figure, but performance-wise), Radhika Sarathkumar