Details are scarce, but Padakkuthira (The Military Line) marks the highly anticipated return of Fahadh Faasil to a full-fledged action role. Directed by Jithin K (of Kothu fame), the film is rumored to be a period political action drama set against the backdrop of the Indian freedom struggle in the Malabar region. If the rumors of Fahadh playing a rugged revolutionary are true, this could redefine his mass-market appeal. (September 2025) Director: Akhil Paul & Anas Khan | Starring: Tovino Thomas, Trisha Krishnan
The Mammootty-Kollywood wave continues. Bazooka has generated immense buzz for its stylized poster and unique premise. The teaser introduced Mammootty as a mysterious, possibly retired, quirky character with a penchant for chaos. With Vikram Vedha writer Deeno Dennis at the helm, expect a razor-sharp cat-and-mouse thriller laced with dark humor. Gautham Menon plays a pivotal role, and the film’s techno-music score by Midhun Mukundan adds to the intrigue. (December 2025 – Christmas Release) Director: Aashiq Abu | Starring: Vijayaraghavan, Dileesh Pothan, Anurag Kashyap
While Empuraan is the spectacle, Thudarum (The Vehicle) is the heart. Reuniting Mohanlal with Operation Java director Tharun Moorthy, this film is a character-driven travelogue/road drama. The first look featured Mohanlal in a rugged, weathered avatar, suggesting a grounded story about a cab driver or transporter. Known for subtle emotional storytelling, Tharun Moorthy is expected to extract a career-best performance from the superstar in this realistic setting. (Late 2025) Director: Deeno Dennis | Starring: Mammootty, Gautham Vasudev Menon
Malayalam cinema, often hailed as the torchbearer of content-driven mainstream Indian filmmaking, shows no signs of slowing down. Following a spectacular 2024 that delivered global hits like Manjummel Boys , Aavesham , and Premalu , 2025 and beyond are already packed with intriguing projects. From high-octane action spectacles to quirky comedies and intense psychological thrillers, here are the upcoming Malayalam releases you need to have on your radar. 1. L2: Empuraan (Late 2025 / Early 2026) Director: Prithviraj Sukumaran | Starring: Mohanlal, Prithviraj, Tovino Thomas, Manju Warrier
Arguably the most anticipated Malayalam film of the decade, L2: Empuraan is the second installment in the Lucifer franchise. Following the earth-shattering climax of the first part, this pan-Indian big-budget action drama promises to expand the universe internationally. With Mohanlal returning as the enigmatic Stephen Nedumpally/Kaimal , and Prithviraj doubling down on his directorial vision, fans expect a political thriller of epic proportions. The teaser has already broken records, hinting at global conspiracies and jaw-dropping action sequences. (Late 2025) Director: Tharun Moorthy | Starring: Mohanlal