Malayalam cinema has produced some of Indian cinema’s finest period drama films, bringing history, folklore, legends, and political movements to life through compelling storytelling. From timeless classics like Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha and Kaalapani to visually stunning modern films like Bhramayugam and Iyobinte Pusthakam, these movies continue to attract audiences across generations.
With Pallichattambi officially arriving on SonyLIV from 24 July, this is the perfect opportunity to revisit some of the greatest Malayalam period dramas currently available on various OTT platforms before watching Tovino Thomas’ latest historical outing.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest Malayalam films ever made, Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha is based on the legendary Vadakkan Pattukal and presents an alternate interpretation of the life of Chanthu Chekavar. Instead of portraying him as a traitor from folklore, writer M. T. Vasudevan Nair reimagines Chanthu as a misunderstood hero, making the film one of Malayalam cinema’s most celebrated screenplays.
Directed by Hariharan and produced by P. V. Gangadharan under the banner Grihalakshmi Productions, the film remains a benchmark for historical storytelling.
Bombay Ravi composed the memorable soundtrack, featuring evergreen songs that continue to be loved by audiences. Interestingly, viewers watching Pallichattambi may notice similarities in its folk-inspired musical flavour, particularly with songs like Kattuchembakam Puthotte Nattuthathamma Kettotte, echoing the traditional musical style popularized by classics like Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha.
The film won four National Film Awards, including Best Actor (Mammootty) and Best Screenplay (M. T. Vasudevan Nair), along with eight Kerala State Film Awards.
Where to Watch: The restored 4K UHD version is available on the Scube Films YouTube Channel.
One of the most ambitious Malayalam films ever produced, Kaalapani is set during the British Raj and follows Indian freedom fighters imprisoned inside the infamous Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands.
Written by T. Damodaran and directed by Priyadarshan, the film was produced by Mohanlal under the Pranavam Arts banner.
The unforgettable music composed by Ilaiyaraaja, with lyrics by Gireesh Puthenchery, became hugely popular and continues to be remembered as one of Malayalam cinema’s finest soundtracks.
Streaming On: JioHotstar (also available through official YouTube channels from time to time).
Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja chronicles the life of the legendary king who fought against the British East India Company during the late eighteenth century.
The film reunited the iconic trio of M. T. Vasudevan Nair, Hariharan, and Mammootty, twenty years after Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha.
Produced by Gokulam Gopalan under Sree Gokulam Movies, the film features music by Ilaiyaraaja and award-winning sound design by Resul Pookutty.
Streaming On: JioHotstar
Directed by acclaimed cinematographer Santosh Sivan, Urumi is a visually spectacular historical action drama set during the early sixteenth century, when Portuguese forces expanded their influence across the Indian Ocean.
Written by Shankar Ramakrishnan and produced by Santosh Sivan, Shaji Nadesan, and Prithviraj Sukumaran under August Cinema, the film combines history with fictional adventure.
Streaming On: Sun NXT (Malayalam version)
Blending period drama, folk horror, and psychological mystery, Bhramayugam stands apart as one of the most unique Malayalam films in recent years.
Written and directed by Rahul Sadasivan, with dialogues by T. D. Ramakrishnan, the film features Mammootty in the haunting role of Kodumon Potti.
Shot in striking black and white, Bhramayugam received widespread critical acclaim for its atmosphere, performances, and visual storytelling.
Streaming On: SonyLIV
Directed by Amal Neerad, Iyobinte Pusthakam is a beautifully crafted period drama set against the plantations of Kerala during the colonial era.
Written by Gopan Chithambaran, with dialogues by Syam Pushkaran, the film blends family conflict, romance, revenge, and political change into a compelling narrative.
Its rich cinematography and production design have made it one of the most visually admired Malayalam films.
Streaming On: JioHotstar
Continuing Malayalam cinema’s rich tradition of period storytelling, Pallichattambi is set during the 1958 Liberation Struggle in Kerala.
Written by S. Suresh Babu, the film recreates the political and social atmosphere of the 1950s and 1960s through an engaging dramatic narrative.
Produced by World Wide Films and C Qube Bros Entertainments, the film stars:
Pallichattambi will premiere on SonyLIV from 24 July in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada.
Malayalam filmmakers have consistently explored history through different perspectives—whether adapting legendary ballads, depicting freedom struggles, recreating royal kingdoms, or blending folklore with supernatural themes. These films are celebrated not only for their storytelling but also for their authentic costumes, memorable music, meticulous production design, and strong performances.
If you’re waiting for Pallichattambi to begin streaming on SonyLIV, these classics offer the perfect introduction to the rich legacy of Malayalam period cinema. Together, they showcase how the industry has continued to reinterpret Kerala’s history, folklore, and cultural heritage across different generations.
Onam Releases Khalifa The 2026 Malayalam Onam season is getting ready for another major theatrical…
Teaser of Law and Order Movie The official teaser of Law and Order, the upcoming…
Kaathangal Dhoore The makers of the upcoming Malayalam film It's a Medical Miracle have released…
This Website Uses Cookies.
Read More
