Upcoming Malayalam Movies In 2026 Direct

Director: Amal Neerad
Starring: Mammootty, Kalyani Priyadarshan, Dileesh Pothan

The film that fans have been begging for since Big B (2007) is finally here. After nearly two decades of development hell, Bilal locks in a Christmas 2026 release. The film is a spiritual sequel following Bilal John Kurishingal, an aging gangster who is pulled back into the underworld to protect his niece. Mammootty is reportedly undergoing a specific physical transformation to bridge the gap between the younger version seen in Big B and the grizzled veteran of 2026. Expect slow-motion walks, neon-lit frames, and a background score that will shake theater speakers.

Director: Jeethu Joseph
Starring: Mohanlal, Meena, Siddique upcoming malayalam movies in 2026

Yes, you read that right. While Drishyam 3 is scheduled for a 2025 OTT release, the fourth installment is planned for a theatrical release in late 2026. The story takes a generational turn. Georgekutty’s daughter is now a lawyer, attempting to free her father from the psychological prison he has built for himself. However, a new police chief, who was a trainee under Geetha Prabhakar, reopens the case using forensic genealogy. Mohanlal has described the script as "a masterclass in ego versus intellect."

Director: Prithviraj Sukumaran
Starring: Prithviraj, Manju Warrier, Suraj Venjaramoodu lovingly known as Mollywood

Note: While not the main sequel to Lucifer, this film exists in the same universe. Prithviraj plays a different character—an intelligence officer cleaning up the mess left by Stephen Nedumpally. This is a gun-fu action film shot entirely in the snowy terrains of Kazakhstan and Himachal Pradesh. Expect a different flavor from Lucifer; this is less about political intrigue and more about gritty, hand-to-hand combat.

While not official, these names could surface in 2026 based on recent announcements: While not official

By 2026, the lines between theatrical releases and OTT premieres will be more defined yet harmonious.

The Malayalam film industry, lovingly known as Mollywood, is currently experiencing what critics call its "Golden Era." Coming off the back of historic box office successes and pan-Indian recognition in 2024 and 2025, the slate of upcoming Malayalam movies in 2026 looks nothing short of spectacular. If you thought the industry peaked with 2018, Manjummel Boys, and Aavesham, think again.

2026 is poised to be a year of massive scale, experimental storytelling, and the return of legendary directors after long hiatuses. From the mass masala entertainers to tight, psychological thrillers, here is your definitive guide to every major Malayalam film hitting the silver screen in 2026.

Beyond franchises, the Complete Actor has several projects in the pipeline that might mature into 2026 releases.