To keep the Malayali in you alive, it is important to look back at your roots. Since movies are a part of our lives, looking back at some classics will help rejuvenate the Malayali within you. You may think that OTT platforms like Amazon Prime Video are just for the latest exclusive content, but guess what, they happen to be a storehouse of classic vintage Malayalam movies. Here’s a look at some of the vintage Malayalam movies you can watch on Amazon Prime Video.
Godfather
The women-hating Anjuraan and sons are characters that are favourites of every generation. Directed by the dynamic duo Siddique-Lal, Godfather tells the story of the impending rivalry between Anapara Achamma and Anjooran. The rivalry is so strong and famous that even their kids are desperate to kill each other. The hate turns into love when Anjooran’s youngest son Ramabhadran (Mukesh) and Achamma’s granddaughter Malu (Kanaka) fall in love with each other. All hell breaks loose and the families plot plans to destroy each other. Film Companion called it a retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Summer in Bethlehem
It is not just Vidya Sagar’s grooving tunes that make us fall in love with this movie. The rich narrative and of course, Manju Warrier’s stunning presence makes Summer in Bethlehem a refreshing watch. The exciting cameo, in the end, is something you do not want to miss out on.
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Thoovanathumbikal
If you are looking to dive into the world of Padmarajan, then Thoovanathumbikal would be a great start. It is considered to be one of the greatest films ever made in Indian cinema. Rain is an eminent part of the movie, nothing less than a character.
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Thenmavin Kombathu
The reason I will watch Thenmavin Kombathu over and over again is not just because I get to see the iconic on-screen chemistry of Mohanlal and Shobhana, but because it feels like home. The story is so refreshing and we never get bored of it no matter how many times we have already seen the film. Yet another proof that Priyadarshan is indeed a cinematic magician!
Vadakkunokiyanthram
Vadakkunokiyantharm is a masterpiece Malayalam movie from the 80s that breaks the macho male lead narrative in cinema. The titular character Dineshan is an insecure husband who gets paranoid about his wife’s nonexistent extramarital affairs. Back in the day, peeking into a man’s inferiority complex and body insecurity wasn’t very common in Malayalam cinema. Written and directed by Sreenivasan, Vadakkunokiyanthram went on to win three Kerala State Film Awards.
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Kottayam Kunjachan
Mammootty’s iconic character Kottayam Kunjachan will never get old. Directed by Joshiy, Kottayam Kunjachan is a fun action drama nestled in the Kottayam-Catholic backdrop of Kerala. The film has an ensemble star cast. If you call yourself a Mammookka fan, then this movie is a must-watch.
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Kannezhuthi Pottum Thottu
She made lust her weapon to avenge the men who wronged her. Bhadra single-handedly rises to seek her revenge. And for that, she uses her lust to lure men who have their eyes on her, against each other. Frontlined by the spectacular Manju Warrier, Kannezhuthi Pottum Thottu is a revenge drama that keeps us hooked throughout. The film fetched Manju Warrier her National Award and after the release of this film, she took a sabbatical to focus on her married life.
Akashadoothu
Now, this is a movie that made the entire Kerala cry. Annie and Johnny lead a happy life with their four children until destiny turns their lives upside down. Annie is diagnosed with cancer and Johnny’s recurrent drinking habit only messes up the situation. All Annie wants is her children to grow happily after her death and she struggles to find foster homes for them. It is hard to watch this movie without shedding a few tears.
You can watch all these vintage Malayalam movies on Amazon prime. Let us know which classic is your favourite?