The 1990s saw a significant shift in the portrayal of Malayalam film actresses in romantic storylines. With the emergence of actresses like Manisha Koirala, Nandini Rai, and Priya Gill, the female leads began to gain more prominence. Their characters were more well-rounded, and their relationships on-screen were more complex and nuanced. The films of this era, such as "Sakshyam" (1995) and "Kanchivaram" (1995), showcased strong female leads who were not just passive objects of romance but active participants in the narrative.

Malayalam film actresses have often been in the news for their real-life relationships and pairings. Actresses like Nayanthara and her husband, Vignesh Shivan, have been open about their relationship. Dulquerika and her partner, Vijay Babu, have also been candid about their romance. These real-life pairings have often translated to on-screen collaborations, adding a layer of authenticity to their performances.

In the early days of Malayalam cinema, female leads were often portrayed as ideal homemakers, with their primary role being to support the male protagonist. Romantic storylines were often centered around the hero, with the heroine playing a secondary character. The female leads were usually depicted as submissive, obedient, and passive, with their relationships confined to the boundaries of societal norms. Actresses like Sreedevi, Shobana, and Madhu were iconic in their roles, but their characters were limited by the conventional norms of the time.