As a young man whose dreams crumble under fate’s cruelty, Mohanlal was heartbreakingly real. His breakdown scene remains a masterclass in acting. Sethu’s pain still echoes with audiences.

Sethumadhavan – Kireedam (1989)

Mohanlal’s comic timing as the naive yet clever Dasan is still legendary. With Sreenivasan as Vijayan, their duo became pop-culture gold. No one else could blend satire with sincerity like this.

Dasan – Nadodikkattu (1987)

In this emotionally charged musical drama, Mohanlal played a torn younger brother. He conveyed grief, guilt, and grace with breathtaking subtlety. His National Award-winning role moved millions.

Balaraman – Bharatham (1991)

Appu was rugged, romantic, and unpredictable — and Mohanlal nailed every shade. His chemistry with Shobana and earthy charisma lit up the screen. This is rustic flair at its finest.

Appu – Thenmavin Kombath (1994)

A mentally unstable man trapped in his own perfectionism — Mohanlal brought haunting depth. It’s a performance ahead of its time, layered and intense. Few actors could make madness feel this human.

Govardhan – Aham (1992)

As a Kathakali artist caught between identity and love, he was ethereal. Mohanlal’s physical control and emotional restraint stunned global critics. This Cannes-screened role remains one of his finest.

Kunhikuttan – Vanaprastham (1999)

A humble cable operator outwits the police to protect his family. Mohanlal’s calm exterior hides burning intensity and fierce love. Only he could make silence this powerful.

Georgekutty – Drishyam (2013 & 2021)

An arrogant feudal lord with a tragic arc — Neelakandan is a cult classic. Mohanlal’s towering performance oozed power, pride, and redemption. No one else could humanise ego like he did.

Mangalassery Neelakandan – Devasuram (1993)

An aging man revisiting love and friendship — this was Mohanlal at his most tender. His mature, restrained portrayal made us rethink romance. Proof that great love stories need no theatrics.

Isaac – Pranayam (2011)