The Malayalam film industry continues to produce captivating movies that resonate with audiences across the globe. In 2024, several films made a significant impact at the box office, breaking records and leaving a lasting impression. Let’s take a closer look at the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year:
1. Manjummel Boys
Manjummel Boys, a survival thriller directed by Chidambaram, has taken the Malayalam film industry by storm. It emerged as the new industry hit, transcending language barriers and captivating audiences worldwide. Notably, it surpassed the ₹50 crore mark in Tamil Nadu—an unprecedented feat for a Malayalam film in that region.
In Kerala, it grossed an impressive ₹61 crore, while its Tamil Nadu gross stands at around ₹53 crore. The film’s all-India gross, including ROI, is nearing ₹130 crore. Overseas, it achieved a remarkable milestone with a collection of $8 million (₹66 crore), culminating in a staggering worldwide gross of ₹196 crore. Projections indicate that it will soon surpass the ₹200 crore mark, making it the first Mollywood film to achieve this milestone.
Production Company: Parava Films
Worldwide Gross: ₹242.3 crore (US$30 million)
2. The Goat Life
The Goat Life, a film directed by Chidambaram, achieved remarkable success. It grossed ₹155.95 crore worldwide, making it a significant hit. The film’s intriguing survival drama centered around a group of men from Ernakulam, Kerala, resonated with audiences.
Production Companies: Visual Romance, Jet Media Production, Alta Global Media
Worldwide Gross: ₹155.95 crore (US$20 million)
3. Aavesham
Aavesham, directed by Jithu Madhavan, emerged as a major success. It earned ₹81.75 crore in India and continued to draw audiences globally, with a total collection of ₹149.6 crore. The film’s strong run at the box office positioned it as the 6th highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time.
Production Company: Anwar Rasheed Entertainments, Fahadh Faasil and Friends
Worldwide Gross: ₹150 crore (US$19 million)
4. Premalu
Premalu, a romantic comedy made on a budget of ₹3 crore, surprised everyone. Directed by Girish AD, the film featured a young cast and surpassed expectations. Within India, it grossed ₹49.5 crore. Notably, the Telugu distribution rights were acquired by SS Rajamouli’s son SS Karthikeya.
Production Company: Bhavana Studios
Worldwide Gross: ₹136 crore (US$17 million)
5. Bramayugam
Bramayugam, a black-and-white Malayalam horror thriller directed by Rahul Sadasivan, defied expectations. Despite its modest budget of ₹3 crore, the film became a box office sensation. Within India, it grossed ₹36.14 crore (₹42.65 crore gross collection). Overseas, it shone brightly, amassing ₹35.3 crore. The film’s worldwide total reached an impressive ₹79 crore. Notably, it marked the highest-grossing horror film ever in Malayalam cinema.
Production Companies: Night Shift Studios, YNOT Studios
Worldwide Gross: ₹85 crore (US$11 million)
6. Varshangalkku Shesham
Directed by Vineeth Sreenivasan, Varshangalkku Shesham had a decent run at the box office. Within India, it earned ₹36.14 crore net (₹42.65 crore gross collection). Overseas, it garnered ₹35.3 crore, resulting in a worldwide total of ₹77.95 crore.
Production Company: Merryland Cinemas
Worldwide Gross: ₹80 crore (US$10 million)
These films span various genres—from romance to action to drama—and showcase the incredible talent of Malayalam cinema. As the industry continues to evolve, we eagerly await more cinematic gems in the years to come. Whether you’re a fan of intense storytelling or breathtaking visuals, these highest-grossing films have something for everyone.