Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu (1986)

A political satire exposing opportunism and ideological hypocrisy through the lens of local politics.
Where to watch: YouTube

Nadodikkattu (1987)

The first film in the iconic Dasan–Vijayan trilogy, chronicling the misadventures of two unemployed youth chasing dreams abroad.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, YouTube

Sandesham (1991)

A biting political satire about two brothers consumed by rival party ideologies, tearing their middle-class family apart.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video (rent)

Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala (1998)

A sensitive portrayal of marital breakdown, focusing on a man who struggles with emotional maturity and responsibility.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, YouTube

Arabikkatha (2007)

A political drama-comedy about a rigid communist whose beliefs are challenged during his time in Dubai.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video

Akkare Ninnoru Maran (1985)

A satirical take on Gulf migration, where a man pretends to be rich abroad while reality tells a different story.
Where to watch: YouTube

Udayananu Tharam (2005)

A sharp, self-reflexive satire on the Malayalam film industry, ambition, and creative compromise.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video

Varavelpu (1989)

A powerful satire on bureaucracy and corruption, following a Gulf returnee’s failed attempts to start a business back home.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Sun NXT

Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989)

A darkly comic exploration of male insecurity, following a newly married man whose jealousy spirals into obsession.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube (official uploads)

Midhunam (1993)

A family drama centred on financial pressures, responsibility, and the quiet sacrifices of married life.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, YouTube

Akkare Akkare Akkare (1990)

A cult comedy where three unlikely detectives travel to the US to investigate a murder, leading to hilarious chaos.
Where to watch: Sun NXT, Amazon Prime Video