Malayalam detective films stand out for their grounded heroes, subtle storytelling, & intellectual thrills. Unlike their Western counterparts, these sleuths often work within the system, relying on instinct-like logic rather than flashy gadgets.
These films don’t rush—they build tension slowly, layer by layer, rewarding viewers with satisfying twists and smart revelations.
Top Malayalam Detective Movies You Must Watch:
Oru CBI Diary Kurippu (Prime Video): Mammootty’s iconic role as Sethurama Iyer begins here. This cult classic blends a suspicious suicide, methodical investigation, and layers of family secrets.
Purusha Pretham (SonyLIV): A corpse, a missing husband, and a broken system. Sub-inspector Sebastian navigates satire and mystery in this darkly comic take on bureaucracy and apathy.
Abraham Ozler (JioHotstar): ACP Ozler investigates eerie killings tied to his past trauma. A gripping procedural with a powerful cameo by Mammootty and hints of a future franchise.
Heaven (JioHotstar): CI Peter Kurishinkal uncovers chilling truths after a personal loss. This emotional, slow-burn thriller balances police work with human depth.
Antakshari (Manorama Max/SonyLIV): Officer Das’s love for a musical game turns sinister when a caller uses it to revive old, haunting cases. Clever and disturbing.
The Priest (Prime Video): Father Carmen Benedict, a priest-detective, investigates a suicide case that spirals into supernatural horror. An eerie mix of crime and mystery with a Gothic edge.