Over the years, Malayalis have always been drawn to films that focus on women and address the detrimental effects of patriarchy, stereotypes, and gender norms. Also, it has sparked interesting conversations among viewers.

The way these films handled this subject, their well-written scripts, the outstanding acting of the female characters, and their compelling narrative strategies made them stand out.

Sara’s

Jude Anthany Joseph's Sara's handles a far more relevant subject—deciding to forgo having children—with the same deft and endearing touch as his previous films. Following Kumbalangi Nights, Helen, and Kappela, Anna maintains her brilliant streak by portraying Sara with all the subtleties. Sara is a novel and charming character that knows exactly what she wants out of life.

The Great Indian Kitchen

With good reason, Jeo Baby's The Great Indian Kitchen has been hailed as one of the best films of 2021. The movie does an amazing job of presenting disturbing facts; there are no overly dramatic scenes that verges on unrealistic. Rather, a gripping plot that makes powerful statements about women's roles in both society and the home lies at the centre of the movie.

Mili

The performances in the film are excellent, particularly those of Sai Kumar, Nivin Pauly, and Amala Paul. Other praised aspects of the film include its cinematography, deft direction, and strong screenplay. The film explores how Mili, the lead character, gradually changes and discovers who she is as she tries to break free from her shell of insecurity.

Oruthee

After a ten-year hiatus, the State Award–winning actress Navya Nair made her return to Malayalam cinema with this film. For her part in Oruthee, a slow-burning thriller that explores the issues a middle-class woman encounters over the course of three days, Navy received praise. The main theme of the movie is a woman's tenacity in facing down a system that is far larger than she is.

Archana 31 Not Out

The movie revolved around the titular character, who is under pressure to get married from society. After meeting 30 prospective grooms, she finally decides to get married to the 31st one, an NRI. On the eve of the wedding, Archana’s world is shaken by unexpected news. How she navigates this, without disrupting the wedding festivities, forms the plot of the film.

Read Also: the broken news s2 trailer: sonali bendre, jaideep ahlawat, and shriya pilgaonkar are back with another thrilling season of the newsroom drama