Stills from movies
The winners of the 55th Kerala State Film Awards were announced at a press conference by Minister of Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian. The jury panel, which was headed by well-known actor Prakash Raj, comprised of eminent professionals such as film director Ranjan Pramod, filmmaker Jibu Jacob, screenwriter Santhosh Echikkanam, playback singer Gayathri Ashokan, Sound designer and director Nithin Lukose, and actor, writer, and dubbing artiste Baghyalakshmi.
Manjummel Boys - Disney+ Hotstar
Directed by Chidambaram, Manjummel Boys emerged as the biggest winner, bagging the Best Film and Best Director awards, along with multiple technical honours for cinematography (Shaiju Khalid), art direction (Ajayan Chalissery), sound design (Shijin Melvin), and lyrics (Vedan).
Bramayugam - Sony LIV
Mammootty bagged his 12th State Award for this film, where he played a goblin. His performance in Bramayugam, a psychological period drama, was lauded for its depth, restraint, and magnetic screen presence - further underscoring his reputation as one of Indian cinema's most formidable performers.
Premalu - JioHotstar
The film starring Naslen and Mamitha Baiju was a big hit across South India. It earned the award for Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value.
Paradise - Netflix
Director Prasanna Vithanage's Paradise received the Special Jury Award. The film features Roshan Mathew and Darshana Rajendran in the lead roles.
Feminichi Fathima - (Theatrical release)
The film was released in theatres in October 2025 and has yet to announce its OTT premiere. It earned debutant Shamla Hamza her first State Award for Best Actress. "This was completely unexpected. Competing with so many experienced actors and knowing that my performance touched audiences is deeply rewarding," she said. Fasil Muhammed was named Best Debut Director for the film.
Bougainvillea - Prime Video
The film won the award for Best Choreography and earned Sushin Shyam the award for Best Music Director. Jyothirmayi also received a Special Jury Mention for her role.
Nadanna Sambhavam - Prime Video
Lijomol Jose won the award for Best Character Actress for her role as Dhanya in this film.
ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam) - JioHotstar
Tovino Thomas, who played a triple role in the film, received a Special Mention for his performance.
Rekhachithram - Sony LIV
The film won the award for Best Costume Design. Sameera Saneesh was the recipient of the honour - her third win in this category.
Kishkindha Kaandam - JioHotstar
The film earned Asif Ali a Special Mention for Acting.
Popular South Indian actor Prakash Raj chaired the jury. Expressing satisfaction with the selection process, he said, "I truly enjoyed watching these films and witnessing the creative journeys they represent. It was a privilege to be part of this."