The Malayalam film industry, known for its realistic storytelling, innovative filmmaking, and strong performances, is gearing up for a spectacular lineup in 2026. With top directors, leading actors, and ambitious projects, Mollywood is ready to set new standards for cinematic excellence. From action-packed blockbusters to soulful dramas and thought-provoking thrillers, 2026 promises to be a golden year for Malayalam cinema.
Below is a complete list of the Top 10 Malayalam Movies Releasing in 2026, along with their expected release dates, cast details, and storyline highlights.
1. L2: Empuraan (The Lucifer Sequel)
- Director: Prithviraj Sukumaran
- Cast: Mohanlal, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Manju Warrier, Indrajith Sukumaran
- Genre: Action / Political Thriller
- Expected Release: Mid-2026
- Storyline: The much-awaited sequel to Lucifer, L2: Empuraan delves deeper into the mysterious world of Stephen Nedumpally. With intense political drama, global-scale action, and a gripping narrative, this film is one of the most anticipated Malayalam releases of the decade.
2. Malaikottai Vaaliban 2
- Director: Lijo Jose Pellissery
- Cast: Mohanlal, Manikandan R. Achari, Harish Perady
- Genre: Period Action Drama
- Expected Release: Early 2026
- Storyline: Following the visual grandeur of Malaikottai Vaaliban, the sequel aims to expand the mythos of the mysterious warrior. With Lijo’s trademark visual storytelling and Mohanlal’s commanding presence, the sequel promises an even more ambitious cinematic experience.
3. King of Kotha 2
- Director: Abhilash Joshiy
- Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Shabeer Kallarakkal
- Genre: Gangster Drama / Action
- Expected Release: Late 2026
- Storyline: After the events of King of Kotha, Raju’s empire faces new threats and betrayals. This sequel brings a darker tone, exploring revenge, redemption, and the rise of a new underworld king.
4. Bilal
- Director: Amal Neerad
- Cast: Mammootty, Soubin Shahir, Shine Tom Chacko
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Expected Release: March 2026
- Storyline: The long-awaited sequel to Big B, Bilal continues the story of the enigmatic Bilal John Kurishingal. With sleek action and a stylish noir tone, the film is expected to redefine Malayalam action cinema.
5. Vettaiyan (Malayalam Dubbed Release)
- Director: T.J. Gnanavel
- Cast: Rajinikanth, Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier
- Genre: Action / Drama
- Expected Release: January 2026
- Storyline: Though primarily a Tamil film, Vettaiyan’s Malayalam version is highly anticipated. Featuring Fahadh Faasil in a powerful role alongside Rajinikanth, it’s expected to be a pan-Indian blockbuster.
6. D 46 (Dulquer Salmaan’s Untitled Project)
- Director: Venky Atluri
- Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Nazriya Nazim
- Genre: Romantic Drama / Musical
- Expected Release: April 2026
- Storyline: Dulquer returns to his romantic roots with D 46, a story about love, ambition, and art. The film is expected to have soulful music and scenic visuals, making it a treat for fans of classic romantic dramas.
7. Ajayante Randam Moshanam 2
- Director: Jithin Laal
- Cast: Tovino Thomas, Krithi Shetty, Basil Joseph
- Genre: Fantasy / Action Adventure
- Expected Release: Mid-2026
- Storyline: Set in three timelines, the sequel to Ajayante Randam Moshanam promises to explore new dimensions of heroism and destiny. With Tovino Thomas in triple roles, it’s one of the most ambitious Malayalam projects ever made.
8. Turbo (Sequel or Spin-off)
- Director: Vysakh
- Cast: Mammootty, Sunil, Raj B. Shetty
- Genre: Action / Comedy
- Expected Release: Late 2026
- Storyline: After the commercial success of Turbo, Mammootty is expected to reprise his role as Jose. With high-voltage action and entertainment, this sequel is likely to dominate the box office again.
9. Varshangalkku Shesham 2
- Director: Vineeth Sreenivasan
- Cast: Pranav Mohanlal, Dhyan Sreenivasan, Nivin Pauly
- Genre: Drama / Friendship
- Expected Release: August 2026
- Storyline: The sequel continues the emotional journey of friends navigating fame, failures, and personal struggles. Expect heartfelt storytelling and nostalgic music that resonates with audiences across generations.
10. Bheeshma Parvam 2
- Director: Amal Neerad
- Cast: Mammootty, Soubin Shahir, Shine Tom Chacko
- Genre: Action / Family Drama
- Expected Release: December 2026
- Storyline: The follow-up to the 2022 blockbuster Bheeshma Parvam brings back the world of Michael and his family saga. With powerful dialogues, intense drama, and stylish visuals, it’s one of Mammootty’s most awaited releases.
The Malayalam film industry in 2026 is set to deliver a perfect blend of mass appeal and meaningful cinema. From sequels of cult classics like Lucifer and Big B to new-age stories featuring Dulquer, Tovino, and Pranav Mohanlal, there’s something for every movie lover.
With big budgets, stunning cinematography, and cross-industry collaborations, Mollywood 2026 could well be the year Malayalam cinema shines brightest on the global stage.
