Malayalam cinema earns over Rs 1500 crore at box office in 2024 so far

The remarkable box office growth of the Malayalam film industry continues, with Tovino Thomas’ latest movie, Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM), crossing the Rs 100 crore mark globally. A decade ago, such a feat seemed like a distant dream for Malayalam cinema, but the industry has steadily transformed itself into one of the most successful regional film industries in India.

While Malayalam films are often known for their small-scale, thoughtful, and intimate storytelling, their box office potential has skyrocketed in recent years. Achieving Rs 100 crore in ticket sales is no longer a rarity for the industry; it is fast becoming an industry standard.

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Though Malayalam movies have yet to open to Rs 100 crore globally on their first day, the industry’s strike rate has improved significantly. ARM took 30 days to reach this milestone, but the ratio of hits versus flops is notably better than in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema. This trend is reflected in the impressive box office performances of each release.

With ARM, the Malayalam film industry now boasts eight films that have crossed the Rs 100 crore mark, four of which reached this milestone in 2024 alone. According to reports, Malayalam films have collectively earned more than Rs 1,500 crore this year, with over Rs 1,000 crore being generated in the first five months of 2024, thanks to blockbusters like Manjummel Boys and Aavesham.

Despite a slump during June, July, and August, when the industry failed to produce a major hit, Malayalam cinema has consistently inspired faith in the theatrical experience. In contrast, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films have faced challenges drawing audiences to theatres this year. Malayalam cinema, however, has bucked this trend, delivering not only the biggest blockbusters but also critically acclaimed films.

Manjummel Boys made history by earning over Rs 240 crore in ticket sales, becoming the first Malayalam film to surpass the Rs 200 crore mark. Other notable box office successes include Aadujeevitham (Rs 157 crore), Aavesham (Rs 153 crore), and Premalu (Rs 135 crore). ARM has earned Rs 100 crore and continues its theatrical run. These figures are particularly impressive given the modest budgets of most Malayalam films. For example, ARM was produced on a budget of Rs 30 crore, yet has already more than doubled its cost.

Meanwhile, films like Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil, Bramayugam, Varshangalkku Shesham, Turbo, and the more recent Kishkindha Kaandam have also contributed to the industry’s box office momentum. Although they didn’t hit the Rs 100 crore mark globally, they are considered significant successes due to their humble production costs.

With its ability to consistently deliver box office hits, the Malayalam film industry is proving to be a powerhouse, balancing artistic integrity with commercial success, and continuing to raise the bar for regional cinema in India.

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