Premalu: 7 must-watch Malayalam rom-coms on OTT

Girish A.D’s latest Malayalam rom-com Premalu has shattered box office records and has become the fifth highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time. The 2024 film recently made its streaming debut on Disney+Hotstar and continues to captivate audiences. The film stars Naslen and Mamitha Baiju in lead roles and follows the romantic pursuits of a young man. If you loved Premalu, here are seven must-watch Malayalam rom-coms that should be on your watchlist.

Nandanam - OTTplay Premium

The heartwarming romantic comedy, Nandanam, stars Navya Nair in the lead as a young housekeeper employed by an aristocratic family. The narrative is told from her perspective as she falls in love with the grandson of the family’s matriarch. Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran marked his debut in the film as the love interest in question. Directed by Ranjith, the film garnered praise for its engaging screenplay, well-placed humour, and fascinating characters. The film also boasted a stellar supporting cast including Revathi, Siddique, Jagathi Sreekumar, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Sai Kumar, Aravind Akash, and Innocent.

Oru Indian Pranayakadha - Disney+ Hotstar

Aavesham star Fahadh Faasil plays the lead alongside Amala Paul in the 2013 rom-com Oru Indian Pranayakadha. Faasil slips into the role of Aymanam Sidharthan, a young politician aspiring for success as the leader of the youth faction of a regional political party. His efforts to propel his budding political career are met with several setbacks. However, a chance meeting with Irene, an Indo-Canadian documentary filmmaker, gives a new perspective and purpose to Sidharthan’s life. The heartwarming film features excellent comic sequences and great chemistry between the lead stars which keeps you hooked. Directed by veteran Malayalam filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad, the film was a hit despite competing with Mohanlal’s Drishyam at the box office.

Premam - Disney+ Hotstar

The most popular film on this list is the 2015 film Premam. The blockbuster hit, directed by Alphonse Puthren, has been criticised in recent years for its problematic depictions of love. However, the film remains a cultural phenomenon and has revolutionised filmmaking techniques in the Malayalam film industry. It also boasts excellent humour and an entertaining storyline. The plot revolves around the three stages of love that a young man experiences – from high school to college to adulthood. Nivin Pauly and Sai Pallavi play the lead roles, while Madonna Sebastian, Anupama Parameswaran, Vinay Forrt, Soubin Shahir, and Sharafudheen among others play other prominent roles.

Amen - OTTplay Premium

Filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery has helmed several acclaimed films in recent years such as Jallikattu, Churuli, Angamaly Diaries, and Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam. However, one of his first major hits was the 2013 romantic comedy film Amen. This groundbreaking film redefined the comedy genre film with its deadpan humour laced with elements of fantasy. It is arguably one of Pellissery’s best films and stars Fahad Faasil in the lead, with Indrajith Sukumaran, Kalabhavan Mani, and Swathi Reddy in pivotal roles.

Salt N' Pepper - OTTplay Premium

Ashiq Abu’s 2011 romantic comedy Salt N' Pepper is credited for being one of the films that ushered a new era in Malayalam cinema. Critics praised the makers for lacing a film about the culinary world with sharp humour and for cumulatively rendering a heartwarming story. The plot centres around two food enthusiasts who are drawn to each other for their mutual love for the culinary arts. The film features performances from Lal, Asif Ali, Shwetha Menon, and Mythili.

Ustad Hotel - Disney+ Hotstar

Anwar Rasheed’s Ustad Hotel is a blockbuster hit that propelled Dulquer Salmaan to instant stardom even though it happens to be his second film. While some of the themes in the film may have aged poorly, it offers a heartwarming tale about love and redemption, with a healthy dose of humour. It features an excellent ensemble of Nitya Menen, Thilakan, Siddique, Mammukoya, Sreenath Bhasi, and Lena.

Kilometers and Kilometers - Netflix

Kilometers and Kilometers starring Minnal Murali star Tovino Thomas is an underrated rom-com helmed by Kaathal - The Core and The Great Indian Kitchen director Jeo Baby. The plot revolves around a ‘Jack of all trades’ young man from Kerala who serves as a tour guide for an American woman. They embark on a bike trip across India as they come to terms with their cultural differences and gain new perspectives. The film stars American actress India Jarvis alongside Tovino Thomas, while Joju George, Sidhartha Siva and Minnal Murali director Basil Joseph play supporting roles.

That's all for this episode of List hai toh hit hai , until the next one it's me Nikhil your host signing out.

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Written by Ryan Gomez