Best Soubin Shahir films to watch on OTT

If there is a Malayalam actor who has gained a massive non-Malayali fan following in recent years along with Fahadh Faasil, it is undoubtedly Soubin Shahir. His performance in films such as Kumbalangi Nights and Virus was lauded by fans and critics across India. So for today’s List hai toh hit hai podcast, we take a look at some of his lesser-known Malayalam films.

Android Kunjappan Version 5.25 (Amazon Prime Video)

Starring Suraj Venjarammoodu and Soubin Shahir in lead roles, this Malayalam film revolves around a mechanical engineer who struggles to build a career in Russia while dealing with his aging and overbearing father. Shahir plays the role of Subramanium in the film while Venjarammoodu essays the role of the father, Bhaskaran, who leads a lonely existence until his son brings a humanoid robot. Written and directed by Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval in his directorial debut, the film explores the influence of technology on human emotions. The narrative makes for a compelling drama that is heartwarming and deeply moving.

Sudani from Nigeria (Amazon Prime Video)

The next film on this list is Sudani from Nigeria wherein Shahir plays Majeed, a manager of a local football team in Malappuram. To help increase his team's chances of winning the local Sevens tournament, he recruits three Nigerian players. But one of them, Samuel, suffers a leg injury that leaves him bedridden. Written and directed by Zakariya Mohammed, the film depicts the innate goodness and honesty in human beings. The film won the Best Feature Film in Malayalam at the 2018 National Film Awards. If you are a fan of Shahir’s work, then this film is a must-watch.

Ambili (Amazon Prime Video)

In Johnpaul George’s Ambili, Shahir plays the titular character. He is an innocent, easy-going and easy-to-fool man who is in love with his childhood friend Teena. In his efforts to prove to Teena’s brother Bobby that he could become a worthy partner for Teena, Ambili follows him on a cycling trip from Kerala to Kashmir. Shahir is adorable in this film which is funny and heartwarming in equal measure. If you are in the mood for a feel-good film, give Ambili a watch.

Maheshinte Prathikaram (Amazon Prime Video)

Maheshinte Prathikaram is easily one of the best films in Fahadh Faasil’s career but a character that stood out in the film is Crispin, played brilliantly by Shahir. Crispin is a photo editing expert who works as an assistant to Fahadh’s character, Mahesh. Shahir stole the show with his comic timing and hilarious dialogues. Written by Syam Pushkaran and directed by Dileesh Pothan, the film was praised for its unique style, both in terms of visuals and storytelling, and bagged several awards.

Vikrithi (Netflix)

The next film on the list is Vikrithi directed by Emcy Joseph. Shahir plays Sameer who posts a photo of a man sleeping on a Kochi Metro train and labels him a drunk on social media. Later, it is known that the man is speech and hearing impaired and accidentally dozed off after spending two sleepless nights at a hospital. Suraj Venjaramoodu plays Eldho in the film which is based on true events. The film teaches us to be empathetic towards people and their circumstances.

Parava (Disney+ Hotstar)

The 2017 film Parava marked Shahir’s directorial debut. Set in Fort Kochi, the film revolves around two teenage boys who engage in pigeon racing. Shahir also stars in the film in a negative role. The film was praised for its story, cinematography, and performances. Parava also features an extended cameo by one of the most popular South Indian actors at the moment. Any guesses?