Loved Kannur Squad? 5 Malayalam police procedural dramas to stream on OTT

Kannur Squad, starring Mammootty, continues to dominate the box office, having already collected more than ₹50 crore. Director Roby Varghese Raj has struck a balance between realism and commercial elements to make the film appealing to all kinds of viewers. In recent times, Malayalam movies have portrayed the police force in a more realistic style, moving away from the earlier trend of depicting them as either superheroes or corrupt officers.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the police procedurals in Malayalam cinema.

Operation Java - ZEE5

Operation Java is a movie that draws inspiration from real cases reported to the Cyber Crime Cell across India. It follows the investigations of detectives Antony and Dasan, who are struggling to make ends meet with odd jobs, while dreaming of better days. Director Tharun Moorthy’s debut film provides an exceptional cinematic experience with an excellent background score that captures the essence of how cyber police operate in Kerala. The movie presents tech-related aspects in a believable manner, which is a refreshing change from other films that inaccurately portray technology. It feels authentic and grounded in reality, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre.

Also Read: Operation Java filmmaker Tharun Moorthy to join forces with Thallumaala stunt choreographer. Here's what we know 

Kuttavum Shikshayum - Netflix

An investigation is underway after a jewellery store in Kasargod was robbed. Inspector Sajan Philip (Asif Ali), who had been dealing with depression following an incident where he accidentally shot a protester, leads the investigation. It has been discovered that a group from Dhanaganj in North India carried out the robbery. Sajan and his team travel to Dhanaganj to capture those responsible. The police officers in the film rely solely on hard work to solve cases and do not use any gimmicks, high-tech equipment, slow-motion walks or grandiose dialogue.

Also Read: Kuttavum Shikshayum movie review: Rajeev Ravi’s signature style lends life to Asif Ali’s police procedural 

Thankam - Amazon Prime Video

The story of Thankam revolves around two gold traders, Muthu and Kannan, who are desperate to earn more money to improve their mediocre lifestyle. They venture to Mumbai for a gold transaction, but Kannan goes missing afterwards. The police struggle to locate Kannan and uncover the truth behind his disappearance. Girish Kulkarni’s performance as the police officer in the murder investigation was exceptional. He played the role of a skilled detective who demonstrated fearlessness in unfamiliar and daunting situations. The interrogation scenes in the film are a must-watch and unprecedented in Malayalam cinema.

Also Read: Thankam review: Syam Pushkaran expertly paces this crime-drama that is elevated by absorbing performances 

Unda - Amazon Prime Video

Khalid Rahman-directed Unda, starring Mammootty, follows a group of police officers who are sent on election duty to areas of Chattisgarh that are affected by maoists. Unlike typical movie cops, these officers are worried about their lives and feel tense in unfamiliar territory. The film also explores themes of casteism and ego among peers. Mammootty shines in this realistic police drama, also starring Shine Tom Chacko, Arjun Ashokan and Lukman Avaran.

Action Hero Biju - Disney+ Hotstar

Action Hero Biju, starring Nivin Pauly, is the first Malayalam film to realistically depict the procedures and workings of a police station instead of relying solely on violent and abusive portrayals. The movie accurately portrays the constant sound of wireless radios, creating a true-to-life police station experience. The storyline unfolds through the investigation of various cases. The film, directed by Abrid Shine, succeeds in becoming a thrilling experience while it portrays the investigation process realistically.