Enjoyed Eko? Explore other animal-related Malayalam movies and where to watch on OTT

The latest Malayalam film Eko is a mystery thriller, which has a pack of fiery yet loyal dogs at the centre of the narrative. Writer Bahul Ramesh crafts an intrinsic world of master-slavery, with the canine metaphor being the underlying theme. Several other Malayalam movies also revolve around animals, making for interesting narratives. From an innocent goat in Aadu to monkeys in Kishkindha Kaandam and a ferocious leopard in Mammootty’s evergreen film Mrugaya, here are other animal-related Malayalam movies and where to watch these on OTT.

Which are the other animal-related movies like Eko

Kishkindha Kaandam 

Where to watch: JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium

Kishkindha Kaandam revolves around newlywed Aparna and her husband Ajayan who live in a huge bangalow near the forest fringes, which hosts a troop of monkeys. Yet another moody mystery by the Eko makers, a missing child and missing pistol form the central plot points of the movie with a link to the monkeys surrounding the house. Though it is not a prequel to Eko, Kishkindha Kaandam is the first part of Bahul Ramesh’s Animal trilogy which was followed by the series Kerala Crime Files Season 2.

Also read: Eko: Bahul Ramesh on how he ‘sacrificed’ a story to build his Animal trilogy | Exclusive 

Aadu 

Where to watch: JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium

Aadu means goat in Malayalam, and the central character in this out-and-out comedy film, led by actor Jayasurya. Shaji Paappan and his motley gang win a tug-of-war contest but get a goat as the prize. Their attempts to get rid of the little goat, named Pinky, soon leads to chaotic and hilarious events as their paths cross with that of international criminal, animal rights activist and even a local cop. Actors Saiju Kurup, Vijay Babu, Sunny Wayne, and Vinayakan play other key roles in the film, which initially was met with skepticism by the audiences but went on to become a fan-favourite. Aadu 2 released in 2021 and Aadu 3 is currently underway.

Palthu Janwar

Where to watch: JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium

After his dreams of becoming an animator fail to take off, Prasoon reluctantly takes up the more secure job of a livestock inspector in a hilly village. After initial setbacks, he learns to appreciate the value of human-animal bond. Actor-filmmaker Basil Joseph stars in the lead role in this film, which also features Indrans, Johny Antony, Shammy Thilakan and director-actor Dileesh Pothan.

Mrugaya

Where to watch: Prime Video (available for OTTplay Premium subscribers with a top-up)

A 1989 Malayalam film, Mrugaya focuses on a small hamlet which has been gripped by the fear of a menacing leopard. The villagers then seek the help of a hunter, named Varunni, the iconic character of megastar Mammootty. Apart from the man-eating leopard, the film also features a pet dog of Varunni that also has a crucial role in the climax. Renowned writer-filmmaker AK Lohithadas wrote the film, helmed by IV Sasi. Urvashi, Jagathy and Thilakan were also part of the film.

Sammanam

Where to watch: Prime Video (available for OTTplay Premium subscribers with a top-up)

Sammanam means gift, and little Vishwan is elated when his father gifts him an elephant calf, Appu, for his birthday. Vishwan develops a strong bond with Appu. Manoj K. Jayan stars in the lead role of Vishwan, while Manju Warrier is seen as his love interest Rajalakshmi and Kalabhavan Mani as his friend. Sammanam joins the long list of Malayalam movies with an elephant at the centre such as the popular Gajakesariyogam.

Also read: Eko movie: What happened to Kuriachan? The ending of Sandeep Pradeep’s thriller explained 

Eko movie FAQs

Q. What is this Eko?

A. Eko is a Malayalam movie, starring actor Sandeep Pradeep in the lead role. Dinjith Ayyathan directed the film, penned by Bahul Ramesh.

Q. Is Eko a trilogy?

A. Yes, Eko is part of the Animal trilogy, crafted by writer Bahul Ramesh. The movie Kishkindha Kaandam and the series Kerala Crime Files Season 2 are also part of the trilogy.

Q. Is Eko on Netflix?

A. Yes, the movie Eko is streaming on Netflix in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.