If you want to know the A-Z of old-age romance, we suggest you watch romantic Malayalam movies of the ‘90s. Before you go ‘ugh’, hear us out. You might not even have heard of these movies, and if that’s the case, it’s a great reason to watch them. Or, not watch them. Your choice! So, here goes:
Namukku Parkkan Munthiri Thoppukal (1986)
Some say that this is one of the best ‘90s romantic Malayalam movies that portrayed deep-rooted, sensual love in the most candid way possible. Directed by Padmarajan, this movie is based on K. K. Sudhakaran’s novel titled Nammukku Gramangalil Chennu Rapparkkam. Solomon (Mohanlal) has fallen head over heels with his new neighbour, Sophia (Shari). Over the course of a few days, he uncovers Sophia’s complicated family life. While the romance in the movie is tight, it ends on a note that will leave you heartbroken.
Thoovanathumbikal (1987)
Two for the price of one. Thoovanathumbikal tells the story of a man who falls in love with two women. He has to choose one to spend the rest of his life with. Whom will he choose? This movie is like a time capsule that will take you back to Mohanlal’s golden days. That said, you should watch the movie for Sumalatha and Parvathi’s character progression.
Ghazal (1993)
Sure, this movie was a box-office flop, but hey, give it a second chance and you might just end up liking it. Ghazal is supposedly Kamal’s favourite directorial work despite the harsh criticism it received back in the day. It’s a love story between a Muslim couple who fight against all odds to live the life they want. A story of pure love, bliss, and struggles.
Ennennum Kannettante (1986)
Nothing reeks of cliche love than that of a childhood love story, right? So, you can only imagine what happens when a young man returns back to his hometown after nine long years and meets his childhood friend.
Njan Gandharvan (1991)
This is one of those mystical stories about a girl who falls in love with a demigod (read that twice). The demigod is sent to Earth due to the curse of the gods, and only the girl can see him. She wants to be with him, but the laws of nature collide against her wishes. Njan Gandharvan is based on the ancient Gandharvan myth but twisted to suit modern society. The movie is surprisingly poignant and flat-out entertaining all at once.
Kanamarayathu (1984)
There’s a reason why romantic movies hit different every time we watch them. This Mammootty-Shobana starrer speaks about a pertinent issue that falls under the purview of love, the age gap. Shirley (Shobana) is in love with Roy (Mammootty), a business tycoon who is way older than her. While he shares the same feelings, he avoids getting muddled into it because of the age gap between them. Baby (Rahman)’s entry makes it a love triangle, and you know where that’s going to end up.
Nakhashathangal (1986)
How can you not fall hard for Nakhashathangal stars Monisha, Vineeth and Saleema? Vineeth’s character Ramu is sick and tired of living with his infuriating uncle. A trip to Guruvyoor, however, changes his life as he meets the love of his life, Gouri (Monisha). But do they end up together? Well, watch the movie to know.
Sargam (1992)
Where there is romance, there is Vineeth…at least in the ‘90s and 2000s. Sargam is about unrequited longingness and sacrifice. There’s nothing more heartbreaking than that while in love. The movie is about Kuttan (Manoj K Jayan), who has epilepsy. His marriage is fixed with Thankamani (Rambha) who is in love with Haridas (Vineeth), Kuttan’s best friend. Complicated much? Wait till your heartaches.
Parannu Parannu Parannu (1984)
Elizabeth (Sukumari), a PT teacher turned beautician has a great time running her beauty parlour along with the help of her son Emil (Rahman). Mini (Rohini), a new hire, changes the whole outlook of the beauty parlor. Soon, she takes a liking to Emil but keeps her distance. While Emil, too, grows fond of her presence, he suspects that she is keeping secrets.
Chamaram (1980)
Sucker for love affairs? You might just love Chamaram then. It tells the story of a love affair between a lecturer and a student. What unfolds is unbelievably a declaration of forbidden love that turns….ugly or for the better good (watch to know).
Kaliveedu (1996)
Mridula (Manju Warrier) and Mahesh (Jayaram) decide to live separately for the betterment of their relationship. Mahesh, however, gets another proposal, but his heart lies with Mridula. More than a love story, this movie questions people’s mindset about a particular gender – what they should be like, what they should do, and what their societal responsibilities are.
Chemmeen (1965)
This list would be incomplete without Chemmeen. In this well-appreciated drama-dy, Karutthamma (Sheela), the daughter of a Hindu fisherman, falls in love with a Muslim fish trader. Their relationship causes communal turmoil because of their religion. It is the first South Indian film to win President’s Gold Medal for the Best Film, BTW. Watch it because it’s one of the classic ‘90s romantic Malayalam movies.
If we have missed out on any of your favourite ’90s romantic Malayalam movies, let us know in the comments below.
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