Malayalam cinema began in the 1920s, with the release of the first Malayalam film, Balan , in 1926. The early years of Malayalam cinema were marked by a predominance of social dramas and mythological films. The 1950s and 1960s saw the emergence of a new wave of filmmakers who focused on socially relevant themes and realistic storytelling. This period produced some legendary filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, K. S. Sethumadhavan, and Ramu Kariat.

The 1980s and 1990s are often referred to as the golden era of Malayalam cinema. This period saw the rise of filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, John Abraham, and Sibi Malayil, who produced films that were critically acclaimed and commercially successful. Movies like Swayamvaram (1972), Adoor Gopalakrishnan's Swayamvaram (1972), Padmaavali (1972), and Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu (1984) are still remembered for their nuanced storytelling and technical excellence.

In conclusion, the latest releases in Malayalam cinema are indeed better, with a focus on realistic storytelling, technical excellence, and nuanced character development. The industry's willingness to experiment with genres, emergence of new talent, and increased focus on content have all contributed to this evolution. As Malayalam cinema continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see more remarkable films that showcase the best of Mollywood.