While many titles are lost to time, certain actors became cult figures during this period:

This period is often viewed as a "dark phase" by industry traditionalists, though it was undeniably profitable.

: The advent of the internet and easy access to high-quality adult content globally made theater-based softcore movies obsolete.

Between 1999 and 2003, the Malayalam film industry faced a significant financial crisis. High-budget superstar films were failing, leading theater owners to turn to low-budget erotic thrillers to keep their doors open.

: This low-budget film, starring Shakeela , became a massive commercial success, grossing ₹40 million against a budget of only ₹1.2 million.