Mon Dec 29 13:00:32 UTC 2025: News Article:

Malayalam Cinema Reflects on a Year of Innovation and Controversy in 2025

Kochi, India – December 29, 2025 – Malayalam cinema experienced a landmark year in 2025, marked by both artistic achievements and increased censorship scrutiny. While perhaps not as explosive as 2024, the industry consistently delivered thought-provoking films that pushed boundaries, culminating in its first-ever ₹300-crore film.

The industry breakthrough was achieved by “Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra,” a modern reimagining of a classic folktale, which marked the rise of female superhero and technical achievements on a small budget, captivating audiences and critics alike. Alongside the commercial success, both Mohanlal and Mammootty delivered performances reminiscent of their golden days and the debut of new filmmakers, solidifying the industry’s creative growth.

However, 2025 also saw increased intervention from the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Mohanlal-starrer “L2: Empuraan” faced significant “voluntary cuts” following right-wing backlash. This controversy, coupled with demands for title and character name changes in “JSK – Janaki Vs State of Kerala,” and the removal of scenes from “Haal” (including one depicting the consumption of beef biryani), has raised concerns about artistic freedom within the industry.

Despite these challenges, Malayalam cinema produced a string of impressive films this year. Highlights include Jyothish Shankar’s directorial debut “Ponman”, the engrossing Animal Trilogy by Bahul Ramesh, the comedy sports movie “Alappuzha Gymkhana”, Fasil Muhammed’s directorial debut “Feminichi Fathima”, Sivaranjini J.’s debut film “Victoria”, Senna Hegde’s “Avihitham”, Shahi Kabir’s “Ronth”, and Rahul Sadasivan’s “Dies Irae”. Each film tells a unique story, tackling social issues with humor and showcasing the diverse talent of the industry.

As Malayalam cinema closes out 2025, it stands at a crossroads, balancing commercial success and artistic innovation while navigating the complexities of censorship. The success of “Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra” and the emergence of new voices signal a promising future, but the challenges faced highlight the importance of protecting creative freedom in the years to come.

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