Amala Paul, known for her bold choices, unconventional roles, and remarkable performances, has carved a unique niche for herself in Indian cinema. Over the years, she has seamlessly transitioned between Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films, earning critical acclaim and a massive fan following. With her fearless approach to selecting scripts and her ability to bring complex characters to life, Amala Paul continues to be one of the most respected actresses in the industry.
As of 2025, Amala’s filmography boasts a diverse range of roles—spanning romance, thriller, drama, and experimental cinema. Here’s a look at the top 10 best movies of Amala Paul that showcase her versatility and talent.
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1. Aadai (2019) – A Bold Leap in Tamil Cinema
Aadai remains a landmark film in Amala Paul’s career. Playing Kamini, a free-spirited and rebellious woman who wakes up naked in an abandoned building, Amala delivered one of her most daring performances. The film explored themes of freedom, consent, and societal norms, sparking widespread discussions. Amala’s fearless portrayal received widespread acclaim, with critics hailing it as a career-defining role that showcased her commitment to challenging narratives.
2. Mynaa (2010) – The Breakthrough Performance
Amala Paul shot to fame with Mynaa, a romantic drama that remains one of her most beloved films. Her portrayal of the titular character Mynaa—a young woman caught in a tragic love story—earned her the Vijay Award for Best Debut Actress. The emotional intensity she brought to the role, coupled with her raw and natural performance, made Mynaa a turning point in her career. The film’s success established her as a promising actress in Tamil cinema.
3. Amma Kanakku (2016) – A Heartwarming Tale
In Amma Kanakku, Amala Paul took on the role of a single mother who goes back to school to inspire her daughter. This heartwarming film touched upon the importance of education and self-belief. Amala’s mature and restrained performance resonated with audiences and critics alike. The film showcased her ability to portray complex emotions with subtlety, further proving her versatility as an actress.
4. Run Baby Run (2012) – Malayalam Cinema at Its Best
Starring opposite Mohanlal, Amala Paul delivered a standout performance in this Malayalam thriller. Run Baby Run was not only a commercial success but also showcased Amala’s ability to hold her own alongside industry legends. Her role as Renuka, a determined and ambitious journalist, allowed her to display a different facet of her acting prowess. The chemistry between Amala and Mohanlal added depth to the gripping narrative.
5. Cadaver (2022) – Breaking New Ground in Crime Thrillers
Cadaver marked Amala Paul’s entry into the crime thriller genre, where she played a forensic surgeon involved in a series of mysterious murders. The film stood out for its engaging storyline and Amala’s stellar performance, which was both intense and believable. Not only did she act in the lead role, but Amala also produced the film, showcasing her growing influence in the industry. Cadaver proved her ability to shoulder a film entirely on her own.
6. Thalaivaa (2013) – Power-Packed Performance
Thalaivaa, starring Vijay, saw Amala Paul in a significant role that highlighted her ability to adapt to commercial cinema without compromising on performance. Playing the female lead in this action-drama, Amala balanced emotional scenes with her vibrant on-screen presence. The film’s success at the box office added another feather to her cap and strengthened her position in the Tamil film industry.
7. Mili (2015) – An Inspiring Transformation
In Mili, a Malayalam drama about self-realization and confidence, Amala played a timid and insecure young woman who undergoes a transformative journey. The film’s narrative was simple yet powerful, and Amala’s sensitive performance struck a chord with audiences. Her ability to portray vulnerability with authenticity made Mili one of her most inspiring roles, earning her widespread critical acclaim.
8. Velaiyilla Pattathari (2014) – Commercial Success with Impact
In Velaiyilla Pattathari (VIP), starring Dhanush, Amala played the role of Shalini, a supportive yet independent love interest. The film’s commercial success brought her widespread recognition among the masses. Although the movie leaned towards Dhanush’s character arc, Amala made her presence felt with a performance that balanced warmth, charm, and emotional depth, proving she could shine in mainstream entertainers.
9. Adho Andha Paravai Pola (2024) – A Thrilling Survival Drama
Amala’s most recent success, Adho Andha Paravai Pola, released in 2024, reaffirms her love for unconventional roles. The film revolves around survival, resilience, and human willpower. Playing a woman trapped in the wilderness, Amala delivered an intense, physically demanding performance. The movie received critical praise for its tight screenplay and Amala’s powerful portrayal, marking one of her finest performances in recent years.
10. Ratchasan (2018) – An Unforgettable Thriller
Although Ratchasan primarily revolves around Vishnu Vishal’s character, Amala Paul’s performance as a schoolteacher added emotional grounding to this psychological thriller. The film was praised for its gripping narrative and became one of the best thrillers in Tamil cinema. Amala’s understated performance complemented the tension-filled plot, proving that she could excel even in ensemble casts.
Conclusion
Amala Paul’s journey in the Indian film industry is a testament to her dedication, talent, and fearless approach to acting. Unlike many of her contemporaries, Amala consistently chooses roles that challenge societal norms and allow her to explore complex human emotions. From the bold Aadai to the heartwarming Amma Kanakku and the intense Cadaver, her filmography reflects a conscious effort to balance commercial success with meaningful cinema.
As of 2025, these ten films represent the best of Amala Paul—each showcasing a different aspect of her versatility and depth as an actress. With more exciting projects lined up, Amala Paul’s star continues to rise, promising more groundbreaking performances in the years to come.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.