Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From romantic Love Tactics to Courtroom drama Trial…the list is fileld with a good number of thrillers, melo-drama and rom-coms movies.
OTT Releases This Week: July 14
The Trial: An intoxicating blend of personal drama and courtroom suspense!
Plot Synopsis: The Trial is a legal drama series about a woman named Nayonika who is forced to restart her career as a lawyer after her politician husband is embroiled in a sex and corruption scandal. The series follows her journey as she balances her personal life with her professional commitments. This is an adaptation of the international series The Good Wife.
The adaptation maintains the episodic legal drama style, combined with an overarching narrative, which keeps viewers on their toes.
The cast, featuring a range of talented actors, adds to the show’s appeal and credibility.
Maya Bazaar for Sale: A Fusion of Upper-Class Drama & Humour!
OTT Platform: Zee5 Directed by: Gautami Challgulla Cast: Navdeep, Naresh, Eesha Rebba, Meiyang Chang, Ravi Varma
Plot Synopsis: Maya Bazaar is a series about a luxurious apartment complex that is declared illegal by the government. The posh inhabitants of the complex are thrown into disarray as they scramble to cope with this upheaval.
The series explores the societal norms, legality, and the human will to survive under duress.
This season has seven episodes that promise a mix of drama and some humour here and there.
Survival of the Thickest: A delightful and poignant journey of self-love and fashion!
OTT Platform: Netflix Created by: Michelle Buteau, Danielle Sanchez Witzel Cast: Michelle Buteau, Tasha Smith, Tone Bell, Anissa Felix, Liza Treyger
Plot Synopsis: Survival of the Thickest centres on Mavis Beaumont (Michelle Buteau), a plus-sized African-American stylist in New York City. The series follows her journey post a breakup as she navigates the dating scene, the fashion world, and life’s unexpected challenges.
The show, based on a memoir of the same name, realistically portrays the struggles and triumphs of a marginalised woman in the modern world.
It balances comedy and drama effectively to highlight the intersection of race, body size, and fashion in society.
The character of Mavis breaks traditional stereotypes, expressing her love for fashion and styling, adding to the show’s unique charm.
Kohrra: A Gripping Tale of Murder and Mystery in Punjab
Plot Synopsis: Set in the heart of Punjab, ‘Kohrra’ is an intriguing crime thriller that follows two diligent cops as they unravel the complex layers of a young NRI’s murder. This procedural thriller delves into the multi-faceted Punjabi society, touching upon themes such as love, migration, feudal feuds, and rampant drug culture. As the mystery unfolds, the protagonists also grapple with personal turmoil, adding a psychological dimension to the series.
‘Kohrra’ offers a nuanced portrayal of Punjab, capturing its vibrant culture and underlying issues.
The narrative skillfully intertwines a police procedural with a psychological drama.
The series draws attention to significant societal concerns like land inheritance and NRI relations with their native land, & I believe it’s inspired by the murder of singer Moose Wala.
Love Tactics 2: The Game of Proposal
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Not Mentioned Cast: Demet Özdemir, Şükrü Özyıldız, Atakan Çelik
Plot Synopsis: In this sequel to ‘Love Tactics’, we revisit Asli and Kerem’s relationship. This time around, Asli is convinced that marriage is a scam, and surprisingly, Kerem agrees. However, Asli’s pride is at stake, and she is determined to get a proposal out of him, ensuing a hilarious comedy of errors.
Love Tactics 2 continues the engaging narrative of Asli and Kerem’s romantic endeavours, filled with humour and surprising twists.
The show explores the concept of marriage, personal egos, and the lengths people can go to protect them.
Love Tactics 2 is likely to resonate with fans of romantic comedies with its playful plot and relatable characters.
Plot Synopsis: Janaki Jaane revolves around Janaki, a woman plagued by irrational fears. Her fear of the dark and being alone in open or confined spaces becomes a constant struggle in her life. When she falls in love and marries Unni, they must confront these fears together. However, things take a dark turn when Janaki becomes a pawn in a political conspiracy during election canvassing. With the help of her husband and friends, Janaki realises she must confront her fears to reclaim her life and expose the truth.
The film combines elements of suspense, romance, and social commentary.
While the execution falls short of its potential, Navya Nair and Saiju Kurup deliver commendable performances.
Janaki Jaane remains a watchable film but I felt like the director spoiled the opportunity.
Thandatti: A Quirky Drama with Inconsistent Execution
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Director: Ram Sangaiah Cast: Pasupathy, Rohini, Vivek Prasanna, Ammu Abhirami
Plot Synopsis: Thandatti is a procedural drama set in a small village in Theni. The story revolves around Thangaponnu’s death and the subsequent battle among her children to claim her final possession, a pair of earrings. Subramani, a cop who abides by his own rules, gets involved in the case when Thangaponnu’s thandatti goes missing. As he faces opposition from the villagers, Subramani must navigate the challenges and uncover the truth.
Thandatti is worth watching only for Pasupathy’s compelling act and the village’s innocent charm.
Other OTT Releases This Week
Nenu Student Sir: An Average Thriller
OTT Platform: Aha Director: Rakhi Uppalapati Cast: Bellamkonda Ganesh, Avantika Dassani, Samuthirakani
Plot Synopsis: Nenu Student Sir follows Subbu, a college student determined to purchase the latest iPhone. However, his life takes a drastic turn when he becomes entangled in a murder case after buying the phone. To his surprise, a substantial amount of money is credited to his bank account. As Subbu struggles to prove his innocence, he unravels the truth behind the murder and the mysterious deposit.
Ishq-E-Nadaan: A Romantic Melo-Drama, set in a Crowded Metropolis
Plot Synopsis: The movie traces the journeys of its protagonists, weaving a narrative of companionship and unconditional love. Directed by Avishek Ghosh, making his directorial debut, the film is an exploration of urban relationships, viewed through a lens of compassion and understanding. The film also reunites veteran actors Neena Gupta and Kanwaljit Singh, once an iconic television couple, demonstrating the transformative power and fun of acting.
Ntikkakkakkoru Premondarnn: A Feel Good Love Story
OTT Platform: Manorama Max Director: Adhil Maimoonath Asharaf Cast: havana, Sharafudheen, Ashokan, Anarkali Nazar
Plot Synopsis: Aspiring vintage car dealer Jimmy spots a vintage car on the road and follows it to meet the owner. The owner is Nithya, his childhood sweetheart who he hasn’t seen in years after their parents forced them to break up. The two reunited lovers must decide whether to use this second chance to reconcile, despite the odds stacked against them.
Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From erotic Fatal Seduction to Super natural thriller Adhura…the list is fileld with a good number of thrillers and feel-good movies.
Sweet Kaaram Coffee: An Emotional Journey Packed with Adventure and Self-Discovery
OTT Platform: Prime Video Directed by: Bejoy Nambiar, Krishna Marimuthu, Swathi Raghuraaman Cast: Lakshmi, Madhoo, Santhy Balachandran, Vamsi Krishna, Kavin Jay Babu
Sweet Kaaram Coffee Trailer
Sweet Kaaram Coffee embarks on the adventurous journey of three inter-generational women who decide to take a road trip to explore their lives from a fresh perspective. This life-altering trip presents opportunities to make new friends, develop fresh outlooks and get in touch with their inner selves, bringing about much-needed change in their lives.
Highlights
The stellar performances by Lakshmi, Madhoo, and Santhy Balachandran, representative of three generations, infuse life and authenticity into the series.
The narrative, beautifully penned by Reshma Ghatala, Swathi Raguraaman, Vinithra Madhavan Menon and Krishnaswamy Rajkumar, strikes a balance between being spicy, honeyed, heart-warming, and prickly.
The series thoughtfully explores themes of mortality, freedom, and living life on one’s own terms.
Adhura: A Supernatural Thriller Set in a Haunting School
Adhura Trailer
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video Created by: Ananya Banerjee, Gauravv K. Chawla Cast: Ishwak Singh, Rasika Dugal, Shrenik Arora
Adhura, a supernatural thriller set in an elite boarding school, reveals a secret so dark that it disrupts the lives of everyone connected to it. The series traces the mystery surrounding disappearances, secrets, and eerie occurrences that link a guilt-ridden alumnus named Adhiraj and a troubled student named Vedant, merging the lines between the past and present.
The narrative showcases the alluring historical charm and captivating architecture of Ooty, which provides a perfect canvas for the thriller.
The choice of location – an actual school with its weathered exteriors, dimly lit hallways, and shadow-filled corners – lends the series an authentically eerie atmosphere.
IB 71: A Spy Thriller That Explores Pak-Version of Intelligence Stories
IB 71 is a spy thriller that follows the protagonist, Agent Dev (Vidyut Jammwal), who leads a top-secret mission to block Indian air space for West Pakistan’s military movement ahead of the 1971 war. It draws inspiration from real events including the 1971 hijack of a Fokker F27 plane, named Ganga, by Kashmiri extremists.
The film tries to sell us the Pakistani theory that the hijack was the handiwork of the Indian intelligence agencies so that they could find a reason to block the Indian air space for Pakistani military’s movement towards the then East Pakistan in the run-up to the December 1971 war that led to the birth of Bangladesh.
Moonu Muppathi Moonu unfolds the tale of Sandy, who moves into a new house with his family, only to experience peculiar incidents tied to the time 3:33. Sandy’s customised clock chimes this time, awakening a chilling spirit. The plot revolves around Sandy’s struggle against this inexplicable presence.
Sandy Master’s splendid performance, particularly in emotional scenes, shines throughout the film.
The horror element is quite interesting once the spirit’s presence is confirmed. However, predictability creeps in after a point, with clichéd jump-scare moments.
Takkar: A Potential Action-Romance Flick Losing its Spark
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Karthik G Krish Cast: Siddharth, Divyansha Kaushik, Yogi Babu, RJ Vigneshkanth, Abhimanyu Singh
Takkar Trailer
Takkar trails the journey of Guns, a young man trying to climb the social ladder. His life takes a wild turn when he discovers a bag full of money, leading him to cross paths with a group of women traffickers. In this chaos, he saves Lucky, a girl with a troubled past. Their shared ordeal forms the backbone of the narrative.
The plot develops interestingly, with Guns and Lucky finding solace and budding romance in shared adversities.
The movie’s downfall lies in Lucky’s character development, turning her into more of a plot device rather than a real character.
Despite its potential, the film fails to make a lasting impact due to its confusing narrative and lacklustre execution.
Tarla: A Biopic that Celebrates the Life of Renowned Chef Tarla Dalal
OTT Platform: ZEE5 Directed by: Piyush Gupta Cast: Huma Qureshi, Sharib Hashmi
Tarla Trailer
Tarla is a biopic portraying the life of renowned chef and cookbook author Tarla Dalal. The film is an uplifting tale packed with emotions, inspiration, and a sprinkling of entertainment. It highlights the journey of a determined woman who breaks barriers in the culinary world, with the unwavering support of her husband.The film is expected to be a feel-good and moving narrative with a dash of inspiration.
Fatal Seduction: An Erotic Thriller With a Dark Twist
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Steven Pillemer Cast: Thapelo Mokoena, Kgomotso Christopher, Prince Grootboom, Nat Ramabulana, Lunathi Mampofu
Fatal Seduction Trailer
In Fatal Seduction, a married woman, Nandi, takes a weekend trip that not only ignites her desires but ends tragically. The series unravels past lies and secrets, causing Nandi to question the honesty of those close to her.
The plot intertwines eroticism, suspense, and dark secrets, adding depth and mystery to the narrative.
The series features an engaging storyline filled with unexpected twists.
It explores the complexities of relationships and the consequences of hidden secrets.
Blind revolves around a strong, determined protagonist who overcomes various life challenges. The film showcases the life of a woman who does not let her disabilities hinder her resilience, leading to an inspiring and moving narrative.
I hope it will be a comeback for Sonam kapoor.
Farhana – A Tale of Empowerment Amidst Struggles
OTT Platform: SonyLiv (Multi-Audio) Directed by: Nelson Venkatesan Cast: Aishwarya Rajesh, Selvaraghavan, Jithan Ramesh, Anumol, Aishwarya Dutta
Farhana Trailer
Farhana (Aishwarya Rajesh), a Muslim woman from a conservative family, starts working due to financial difficulties. She ends up in a job that involves talking to desperate men seeking female companionship. Over time, she grows comfortable with the work, as it improves her family’s living conditions. Things spiral out of control when she breaks company rules and tries to meet a frequent caller.
Archie’r Gallery: A Nostalgic Romance That Touches the Heart (Bengali)
Archie’r Gallery takes you back to the ’90s through the lives of Archie and Niharika, and their love story influenced by Archie’s father’s romantic narratives. As the film progresses, it questions if the charm of old-school, greeting card romance has faded in the era of dating sites.
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Before Lust Stories 2, let’s get back to square one. In Lust Stories first edition, the anthology kicked off with Anurag Kashyap’s episode – a phenomenal start, indeed.
Lust Stories Title Card
Let me paint the picture:
If I’m not wrong, the opening scene featured Radhika Apte, head out of a car, basking in a nostalgic Bollywood tune. Street lamps illuminated her face, her hair waving in the wind, and she’s laying lazily, looking at her young lover, You get all this in one long shot of a taxi cruising on a quiet, lit-up highway at night.
Isn’t it making you see the picture? Can’t you feel what the character’s going through? No dialogues, but it still speaks to you. That’s my first metric for assessing a film’s quality. How much it speaks to you without dialogue.
After this scene, there’s a chat where Radhika Apte asks her boyfriend if they’re alone at home. He says only grandma’s home, and she can’t hear well. Then they’re in his room, talking about the books on the shelf, sharing thoughts. You can tell loads about the characters from this conversation. Kashyap uses the setting and dialogue to peel back layers of the characters. There’s a lot of talking, mostly by Radhika, but none of it’s senseless.
Why am I talking about Lust Stories 1 while writing about the second edition? Because that’s the easiest way for me to share my experience of Lust Stories 2.
Episode 1: Granny from the Future: Too Much Sex, Too Little Sense
Anurag Kashyap used the atmosphere and ambience to convey the emotions and used dialogue to portray the inner layers of the characters.
It’s not simply about sex or lust. The characters are not talking sex or f*** a lot of times; they are talking about their anxieties, which might be yours as well, and they are unveiling the deceptive covers in front of you. In the first episode, when Radhika Apte asks you, How can you expect one person to be everything, your friend, your lover, and your wildest fantasy? you will be able to empathise with the character Kalindi and be convinced that Kalindis exists.
First Episode: Lust Stories 2
In Lust Stories 2, everything is flipped. We start with R. Balki’s episode with a granny from the future, or maybe another planet. The episode is all sex or fuck. It feels so fake, full of cringe dialogue. Why did they pick this as the first episode? It made me want to stop watching. But after a break, I gave the second episode a chance. Balki should have made some notes from Anurag Kashyap’s Lust Story episode, especially on world building, character sketching, and dialogues.
Episode 2: A Peek into Hidden Emotions, Konkona Sen Sharma’s Lust Story
In Lust Stories 1, the second episode is from Zoya Akhtar, another great talent. It’s about a relationship between a domestic worker Sudha and the man she works for. It’s a subtle, simple story that leaves a question at the end. You can see that Sudha has almost no dialogue, but you can see her transformation, her anxieties, and, in the end, her acceptance of a hard truth.
Second Episode: Lust Stories 2
In Lust Stories 2, the second episode by Konkona Sen Sharma is very similar to what Zoya did; it is subtle, with almost no dialogue between the main characters except a short tirade. The episode ends with a superb commentary on voyeurism and how some emotions can only be limited to being kept under the wraps. Tillotama Shome nailed it, and I was so happy to see her again in the Night Manager today.
Episode 3: Lots of Lust but a ‘lustful’ Misfire
In Lust Stories 1, Dibakar Banerjee crafted the third episode, and it has a strong message for women. It is about Reena, who is in an extremely unhappy marriage with a businessman. She stuck in her roles as wife, mother, and lover, unable to assert herself as an individual. A single line of dialogue from Reena is enough to understand what’s going on; she says, “You need a mother, not a wife, and I cannot be that.” The movie questions the institution of marriage from a woman’s perspective.
Tammanna and Vijay Verma Lust Stories 2
But in ‘Lust Stories 2’, the third episode by Sujoy Ghosh is just a show. Lots of kissing and cleavage, and then a predictable twist. I couldn’t figure out what it was trying to say. At least they should have tried to remove that cliched backstory, which would have helped them make the climax better. If you are a Tamanna fan, go for it; otherwise, just watch the first 5 minutes and the last 10 minutes of the episode.
Even Vijay Verma couldn’t save this one as he did in Dahaad, I believe. By the way, I believe Jenniffer Piccinato is going to be a most searched term after Lust Stories 2. Her video call in this third episode added more Lust than the writers did.
Episode 4: Predictable Fairy Tale, Saved by Kajol’s Eyes
Kajol in Lust Stories 2
In Lust Stories, Karan Johar surprised me with the last episode. Among philosophical takes and social commentaries, he presented a simple yet thoughtful comedy-drama. But Lust Stories 2 ends with Amit Sharma’s episode trying to be a dark fairy tale and ending up just being dull. The only good thing was Kajol and her beautiful eyes.
There is actually nothing much to explain about Lust Stories 2. The endings or plot points are pretty straight, and if you are still looking for ending explained posts, you should really evaluate your cognitive skills.
In the end, I believe ‘Lust Stories 2’ may disappoint you. They messed up the brand with an amateur job.
Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From Lust Stories 2 to Celebrity(Netflix). Thrillers, Comedy, Action, K-Drama…the list is long and hopeful.
OTT Releases This Week: June 30
Veeran – A Mythical Superhero Comedy
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Directed by: ARK Saravan Cast: Hiphop Adhi, Vinay Rai, R Badree
Veeran Trailer
Plot Synopsis
Veeran revolves around Kumaran, a man with unique superpowers, who assumes the guise of the village’s forgotten deity, Veeran, to protect his people from a threatening corporate project. The film uniquely combines elements of myth, superhero elements, and village life comedy. The plot journeys with Kumaran as he uses his mind-control and electric-arc-discharging powers to thwart the dangerous project led by the antagonist, Sharath.
Vimanam weaves a melodramatic tale of a differently-abled father’s endeavors to fulfill his son’s dream of experiencing air travel. Facing mounting odds, Veerayya, the father, and his son Raju grapple with their circumstances and societal prejudices.
Highlights
An emotional narrative, underpinned by the strong performances of Samuthirakani and Master Dhruvan.
Portrayal of a tender father-son relationship is heartwarming but often dips into the realm of melodrama.
The film could have benefited from fresh narrative tropes and better writing.
The Night Manager Season 2 : Thrilling Labyrinth
OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar Directed by: Priyanka Ghose Cast: Anil Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sobhita Dhulipala, Tillotama Shome
Plot Synopsis
In this second season, former Navy officer Shaan Sengupta must navigate unexpected challenges as he uncovers illegal activities of a man he was tasked to spy on.
Highlights
Successful adaptation of John le Carré’s The Night Manager into a Hindi version. Intense performances and intricate plot lines keep audiences engaged and wondering what will happen next. While the first season set the stage, the anticipation for the unfolding events in season two is high.
Good Night: A Slice-of-Life Comedy with Heart and Wit
Good Night narrates the story of Mohan, an IT professional whose loud snoring affects his relationships. Meanwhile, Anu, an introverted accountant, grapples with her past and feelings of unluckiness.
Highlights
Stellar performances by Manikandan and Meetha Raghunath, infused with comedic timing, make the series engaging. The narrative successfully intertwines humor into everyday problems. The relationship between Mohan and Anu evolves organically, adding depth to the storyline.
Ardhamayyinda Arunkumar – A Small-Town Boy in the Big City
OTT Platform: Aha Directed by: Jonathan Edwards Cast: Harshith Reddy, Tejaswi Madivada, Ananya
This series follows Arun Kumar’s transition from a small-town boy to a corporate worker in Hyderabad, providing humorously poignant insights into his encounters and experiences.
Lakadbaggha – A Wild Crime Comedy With A Poor Draft
OTT Platform: ZEE5 Directed by: Victor Mukherjee Cast: Anshuman Jha, Milind Gunaji, Sanjay Mishra, Shakti Kapoor
Plot Synopsis
In this Hindi crime-comedy, Arjun Bakshi (Anshuman Jha), a martial arts teacher and animal lover, faces his worst nightmare when dogs start vanishing from the streets of Kolkata. His curiosity leads him to discover an illegal and ruthless animal trade run by a dangerous kingpin who deals in exotic animals and murders street animals on contract.
Witty dialogues and funny sequences make this movie an entertaining watch.
An outside the box idea with a blend of crime and comedy seamlessly.
However, the storyline at times seems predictable and could use more suspense or unexpected twists.
Lust Stories 2 – An Intricate Tapestry of Desire and Intimacy
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: R Balki, Konkona Sen Sharma, Amit R Sharma, Sujoy Ghosh Cast: Tamannaah Bhatia, Mrunal Thakur, Vijay Varma, Kajol, Angad Bedi, Tillotama Shome, Kumud Mishra, Neena Gupta, Anushka Kaushik, Amruta Subhash, among others.
Plot Synopsis
Lust Stories 2 explores the nuanced complexities of intimate relationships and sexual awareness through four unique episodes.
The series, while maintaining the original’s provocative theme, offers fresh perspectives with its new cast and creative directors.
Each episode tackles distinct themes effectively, showing various facets of desire and intimacy, which helps to keep the viewers engaged.
However, some episodes could feel uneven and may not fully resonate with the audience. If you are a fan of first season, you may get disappointed with its amateurish writing.
There are certain scenes where the storytelling feels a bit preachy, potentially affecting the overall narrative flow.
Directed by: Jim Field Smith Written by: George Kay Cast: Idris Elba, Neil Maskell, Eve Myles
In Hijack, Idris Elba plays Sam Nelson, a passenger on a seven-hour flight from Dubai to London, which gets hijacked by a group of extremists. The narrative plays out in real time as Sam, an experienced business negotiator, must utilize his skills to prevent a catastrophe while ground control in the UK attempts to manage the crisis.
Celebrity Netflix
Directed by: Kim Cheol-kyu Written by: Kim Yi-young Cast: Park Gyu-young, Kang Min-hyuk, Lee Chung-ah, Lee Dong-gun, Jun Hyo-seong
Celebrity is a South Korean drama series that provides a stark look at the world of social media influencers and the subsequent pressures they face. The series follows Seo A-ri, played by Park Gyu-young, an ordinary office worker who becomes a social media sensation overnight and is thrust into the world of influencers, celebrities, and the obsessions they bear with their online image. She soon learns the hidden truths behind the glittering world of likes, followers, and subscribers, and has to navigate her own path.
Dark Impulse (2011), a gripping Spanish thriller, stars the captivating Veronica Echegui, Alex García & Juan Pablo Shuk. The original Spanish title is ‘Lo Mejor De Eva’.
Dark Impulse Movie Poster
The Plot: Judicial Ethics Meets Forbidden Passion
Eva (Leonor Watling) is a young, integrous, and relentless judge. Her judicial career, prompted by her father, a former prosecutor, has shaped her in his image. With him now in a coma, she finds herself dealing with the death of a young stripper, Liuba (Polina Kiryanova). This sets the stage for Lo mejor de Eva aka Dark Impulse (2011), directed by Mariano Barroso. It’s his comeback after Hormigas en la boca(2005) and Kasbah (2000).
Leonor Watling as Eva
Dark Impulse starts as a typical courtroom drama, where we get to know the Eva. What initially appears as a straightforward legal proceeding, soon spirals into an unexpected romantic entanglement as Eva falls for Rocco (Miguel Angel Silvestre), the key witness and former boyfriend of the murdered girl. As Eva and Rocco’s relationship tightens, the film morphs into a high-voltage erotic thriller. The scenes showcasing the chemistry between the protagonists are the film’s best parts.
From Courtroom to Bedroom: Eva’s Struggle with Desire
Eva’s life, which has always been deeply entrenched in her legal work, begins to unravel as she succumbs to her intense attraction to Rocco. The judge, initially cold and distant, transforms into a passionate woman driven by impulses she never knew she possessed.
Leonor Watling from Dark Impulse
These drastic changes not only affect her personal life but also have implications for the ongoing murder case. As the plot progresses, the line between right and wrong becomes increasingly blurred, pulling the viewer into a thrilling whirlpool of suspense and eroticism.
Echoes of Urbizu: A Tale of Two Judges
The film, in some ways, echoes Enrique Urbizu’s No Rest For the Wicked (2011), which also features a judge with many similarities to Eva. However, where Urbizu’s film focused on a cop, Barroso’s centers on Eva’s life. Everything changes when Rocco (Miguel Angel Silvestre), the boyfriend of the murdered girl, becomes the key witness.
From Verdict to Vulnerability: The Dark Impulse of Events
The film grips the viewer’s attention from the get-go. However, due to its unpredictability and sudden shifts in tone and genre, it may lead to some confusion. The transformation of Dark Impulse from a courtroom drama into an erotic thriller could take the viewer by surprise.
Leonor Watling from Dark Impulse
Despite these abrupt shifts, the film does an impressive job of maintaining the suspense and intrigue throughout, offering a thrilling experience for those who enjoy genre-bending narratives.
The Lighting of the film, particularly in the erotic scenes, is noteworthy. The camera work in these scenes is exceptional, creating an ambiance that accentuates the charged chemistry between Eva and Rocco.
A Final Thought: Dark Impulse
The way Dark Impulse combines elements of a courtroom drama with those of an erotic thriller, echoes the tonal shifts seen in films such as Basic Instinct. It also reflects narrative elements seen in Body Heat, where the lines between law and desire, right and wrong, are obscured, creating a morally grey space that is as intriguing as it is unsettling. The film’s unique blend of genres sets it apart, while also drawing parallels with other classics in the erotic thriller category.
Miguel Angel Silvestre as Rocco
So, if you are a fan of such movies, give it a try. Dark Impulse is an interesting pick for those looking for a film that is not just a thriller but also explores into human psychology and sensuality.
As an ardent fan of Pawan Kumar, my expectations were sky-high for Dhoomam, especially after being enamored with his last web series, Kudi Yedamayithe. I eagerly waited two long years for Pawan Kumar to unveil his new work, post Kudi Yedamayithe.
Dhoomam Title card
However, to my disappointment, I couldn’t find the signature sophistication and finesse I had anticipated from Pawan Kumar in Dhoomam. It doesn’t show the output of 2 years of homework.
Plot
The plot centers around Avinash (Fahadh Faasil), who is the marketing head of a major tobacco company. He and his wife Diya (Aparna Balamurali) find themselves held hostage in a secluded hilly terrain. The kidnapper issue a series of demands via phone calls, prompting Avinash and Diya to complete certain tasks to save their lives.
The film switches between the couple’s present predicament and flashbacks to Avinash’s career rise in the tobacco company run by Sid (Roshan Mathew). In the past, we see Avinash’s cunning methods to promote the company’s products and influence government policies.
The plot leaves some loose ends, with questions around who the ‘faceless’ caller is and why Avinash is being targeted instead of Sid, the actual head of the company.
Expectations and Initial Disappointment
Director Pawan Kumar’s effort to highlight a grave issue like smoking deserves applause. However, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. The kidnapping scene at the beginning of the film is unconvincing and disrupts the viewing experience. The film’s pacing feels off, with crucial events happening too rapidly and without adequate build-up. These elements, combined with a plethora of continuity errors, contribute to a sense of disconnection from the narrative.
Direction and Continuity Issues
When the movie starts, we can see Aparna Balamurali is waiting for Fahad Fazil and it’s raining, but while getting into the car, you can see that she is not at all wet. I couldn’t find any raindrops on her face, hair, or dress. If this movie was directed by any other directors from Kannada, I wouldn’t have cared, but since it was Pawan Kumar, this was a friction point for me.
With poor editing and scripting, the kidnapping scene in the movie was so artificial and unconvincing for me. There were a lot of loopholes in that scene, and I found so many continuity issues in just 20 minutes of the film. For example, I don’t know why the kidnapper took the watch from Fahad Fassil. While driving, there is a watch on his left hand, but in the morning it is not there.
There is a fight scene between a gunman and Fahad Fassil, and you can see a lot of wounds and bruises over his face and body, but after a face wash, he is clean and left with only a scar.
When it comes to the plot development, I would say it is highly predictable and filled with cliched events.
The character development also suffered from amateur first thoughts. Take Fahad Fazil’s character Avinash as an example; he was portrayed as a creative thinker, problem-solver, and ambitious individual. However, the writer failed to provide a compelling trigger for this character’s transformation or introspection. I found it unconvincing that such a calculating character would alter his mindset without a strong reason.
All this means I couldn’t enjoy the movie at all? A Big No!!
Why You Should Try This Movie
There are some dialogues from Fahad Fazil as a marketer that really strike every citizen, I believe. For example, the way Avinash (Fahad) marketed the vapes was so brilliant, and as a marketer, I find it so interesting, and I realized how dangerously our emotions and mirror neurons work.
Similarly, the government’s involvement in promoting tobacco usage was represented neatly.
Fahad Fazil as Avinash in Dhoomam
Fahadh Faasil, playing the ambitious marketer, delivers a solid performance, reflecting his character’s complexity and moral struggle. Aparna Balamurali, despite a somewhat overly dependent character, brings credibility to her role. Roshan Mathew also offers a convincing portrayal in his role as the head of the tobacco company.
The climax is well-drafted, so realistic, and well-executed. I strongly believe that climax can make a huge impact on anyone who smokes; at least they will think twice next time when they hold a cigarette. The last 15 minutes of the film were really worth it, and that’s where I found the signature of Pawan Kumar.
Despite its flaws, “Dhoomam” delivers a potent social message. The impactful final scenes carry a significant enough message to make smokers reconsider their habits, highlighting the dangers of tobacco usage.
Final Thoughts
It might be best described as a missed opportunity – a film that could have been a powerful social commentary but falls short due to its execution.
Kerala Crime Files, As Hotstar’s first Malayalam thriller web series, I held high hopes. And I was happy to see that Disney Hotstar managed to meet my expectations in terms of production quality.
The series, set in 2011, showed a clear investment in recreating that era’s technological and ambient milieu. The craftsmanship on display was remarkable.
Penned by Aashiq Imar and directed by Ahammed Khabeer (known for ‘Madhuram’ and ‘June’), I had a feeling that the narrative might have fared far better as a standalone OTT movie instead of a web series.
The plot, at its core, is simple. Sub-Inspector Manoj and his team of four are on the heels of a sex worker’s murderer. Their leads? A fake address: Shiju Parayil Veedu, Neendakara, and a witness who claims the suspect has squinted eyes. They are solving the case within six days (6 Episodes).
It sounds gripping, doesn’t it?
However, as the story opened up, my interest began to wane. The narrative felt like a wafer-thin premise stretched far too thin; it’s pretty evident that the writer didn’t spend much time with the characters or the events. If it were a 100-minute movie, this writing might work well, but I am not sure about a crime-thriller web series.
The series takes off slowly, with the first two episodes feeling like they could have been compressed into one. The narrative regains momentum in the third episode, establishing a robust motive for the lead character (S.I. Manoj) to track down the killer. But after that, the excitement ebbs again, only to return in the fifth episode.
Although the choice to depict six days across six episodes lends realism, the thrill factor takes a hit, perhaps a side effect of my steady diet of thrillers.
Written Poor, but Executed Well
The characters, whether the killer or the police officers, lack depth and layers. The addition of officers’ personal lives seemed a ploy to stretch the runtime, lacking subtlety or layers. The writer tried to build an image of the murderer with the first five episodes, and when it was finally revealed, I found a mismatch between the buildup and reality. That’s where I felt the writer should have spent much more time with the scripting.
In the climax, the explanation of the motto felt artificial. The victim character did not pull it off well enough to make it convincing. However, I really enjoyed the villain and his subtle cues.
The series showcases commendable performances from Aju Varghese in the lead role, supported by Navaz Vallikunnu, Zhinz Shaan, and Devika Rajendran. Zhinz Shaan’s constable “Pradeep” deserves a special mention for his steadfast character arc. His obstinate and narrow-minded approach distinguishes him from his colleagues. Another noteworthy performance is that of Lal in the role of CI Kurian.
To sum it up, lower your expectations, and you may find ‘Kerala Crime Files’ enjoyable. While it manages to retain your attention, it falls short of being a nail-biting thriller. The expectations set by the trailer didn’t fully translate into the series, and it spoiled my experience with this thriller.
My Opinion: A Promising Start, but Does It Deliver? Doubtful
Mani Ratnam’s films are known for their layered storytelling. Ponniyin Selvan is no different, packed with scenes that become more meaningful with an understanding of Tamil history. Here I will share my interpretations and observations, which may help explain Ponniyin Selvan better.
The Entrance of the Enigma: Aditya Karikalan
Aditya Karikalan (Chiyaan Vikram), the character, is introduced in an intriguing manner, with his first appearance shrouded in fog. The moment he steps onto the battlefield, the fog clears, revealing a warrior prince carrying a heavy heart.
The misty backdrop is Mani Ratnam’s creative method to hint at Aditya’s obscure past. With this single shot, Maniratnam establishes that he is coming from a shady past, and we are not clear about his past.
Aditya Karikalan introduction
We are hearing about his past through his conversations with Parthibendran and Kundavai in multiple instances.
As per the historical narratives and the novel, Aditya is stubborn, sticking to his decisions regardless of the circumstances. But no one really knows, who he really was, or what he was going through.
Shadowed Past and Victorious Present
Now, let’s pick another scene. After winning the Nolamba dynasty, Aditya explains his past and agony to Parthibendran. It’s all dark, and Aditya’s face is not clear; we are getting only one half, and if you look at the background, it’s misty again. I believe it’s symbolic of the shady past of Aditya Karikalan.
Aditya- Parthibendran
The deliberate symbolism points towards Aditya’s murky past. When the painful past is shared, and Aditya waves the flag, the frame transitions into sunlight.
This change implies the flag wave as a metaphorical act to ward off the clouded past. War, Rage, and Victory are his ways to clear off the painful and obscure past around him.
The choice of costumes for Aditya is noteworthy. He is always seen in black and red, contrasting with Arulmozhi, who wears pristine white. This difference in colour choices signifies the differing characters and histories of the two.
Parallels with Karnan from Mahabharatha
This is actually a wild theory. Thanks to Sandeep (Nanban 🙂 )
Aditya Karikalan’s portrayal has parallels with Karnan from Mahabharatha.
During Aditya’s triumphant moments, a sun glare can be seen in the backdrop. Ravi Varman (the cinematographer) brilliantly incorporated the sun glare as an aura around Aditya. Contrarily, when Aditya is depicted in a state of sadness, the sky appears cloudy, or he is shown in darkness. Even his death happened at night.
Aditya asks Nandini if it is hard for her to look at him. Then he waves off all the lamps and dies in the darkness.
In the Mahabharata, even Lord Krishna wept at Karna’s death because Karna was kind, loyal, and understood his dharma. However, he was cursed by Bhumi Devi for disrespecting her. It was just his luck or curse spoiled him. He was unlucky as much as Aditya.
Aditya was also cursed. Nandini asked him only one thing, to spare Pandiya’s life, but he ignored her plea. He disrespected her and hurt her. That was the sin he was carrying (metaphorically, Aditya says, “I consumed poison that day”).
A dying Karna asked Krishna to inform his mother Kunti of his death. He could have asked Krishna to give victory to Duryodhana and bring his armies back to life. However, he didn’t. He wanted his mother to proclaim publicly that he was her son and that he was not of low caste. He was looking for acceptance.
Aditya’s last words were a request for Nandhini to tell him that he still lives in her heart. He was looking for acceptance.
The epic beauty of the scene is the way Vanthiya Thevan carries Aditya’s dead body. The background is filled with smoke, just like when Aditya was first introduced in PS-1. It is a shady mystery, and we could never really understand Aditya, even his death remains a mystery.
The Dance of Victory: Devarattam
Devarattam, a traditional dance form, was performed by kings and warriors to celebrate victory, particularly in the Pandyan and Chola dynasties. During Vanthiyathevan’s visit to Kadambur in the movie, however, the dance depicted appears to align more with “Kecak” than Devarattam.
Actual Devarattam, image credits: twitter/@devarattam
Some argue that Devarattam took inspiration from Kecak, but this theory doesn’t holds historical back. The Chola’s naval invasions in Southeast Asia, a possible channel for cultural exchange, started only in 1025, while Aditya Karikala and the Pandyas were active before 1000 CE. Additionally, Southeast Asian rulers like those from Srivijaya, who had close relations with the Pala Empire in Bengal, did not seem to have left any influence on the dance form.
The real Keckak from Bali
The dance is based on the story of the Ramayana and is traditionally performed in temples and villages across Bali (Indonesia).
The Clash of Titans: Kundavai-Nandini Confrontation Scene
The Kundavai-Nandini faceoff scene is one of the most epic scenes in Ponniyin Selvan part -1. The rivalry between two women is on full display in this scene.
But I feel, many might have misread it. Here is my interpretation.
Background: Nandini has deep resentment towards Kundavai, blaming her for all her miseries. Nandini believes that it was Kundavai who got her expelled from the palace and constantly made her feel inferior due to her lineage. In a bid to gain power, Nandini manipulates Periya Pazhuvettayar and considers Madurantakan’s claim to the throne. She keeps Sundara Chola, Kundavai’s father, under house arrest, cutting him off from others for easy manipulation.
Learning about Nandini’s scheme from Vandiyathevan, Kundavai decides to confront her at the Tanjore palace. As the dramatic background music “Saayam Sanchare” (Evening- where Day and Night meets) fills the air, their coded conversation unfolds:
Nandini: “Upon your visit, Tanjore palace itself has become beautiful.”
Kundavai: “But I heard all the beauty in the world has been kept in the Tanjore palace.” (hinting at Nandini’s beauty)
Nandini: “Yes, beauty is held captive here indeed.” (referring to Sundara Chola being under house arrest, Sundara means ‘beautiful’)
Kundavai: “Captive? Does the golden beauty [Sundara Chola] not adorn the throne?“
Nandini: “Yes, it’s gold, old gold.” (referring to the king as old)
Kundavai: “Faded gold is the most precious.”
Nandini: “Even golden shackles are still shackles.” (indicating Sundara Chola is under her control, regardless of his position)
Kundavai: “The key to the shackles are in our hand anyway.” (asserting her ability to free Sundara Chola)
Nandini: “No one can defeat the princess (Kundavai) in an argument.”
Following this heated exchange, Kundavai smiles as the background score saayam sanchare intensifies. The combined genius of AR Rahman, Ravi Varman, and Mani Ratnam in this scene is simply beyond words.
Kundavi is envious of Nandini’s beauty; Nandini is jealous of Kundavi’s power; and throughout her life, Nandini feels inferior to Kundavi because of the power she holds. You will get all this from this scene, if you read it well.
Nandini: The Ever’green’ Queen
Pandiya’s Fish Eyed(Meenakshi) diety is green. Crafted from a single large emerald stone, the goddess is believed to be Vishnu’s sister, just as Nambi(Jayaram), a vaishnavite, is Nandini’s brother.
Echoes from the Past and Authentic Settings
There’s a scene where Vandhiyathevan ingeniously escapes from the Pazhuvettarayar guards, reminiscent of chase sequences from the movie ‘Thiruda Thiruda’. The elements that Vandhiyathevan disturbs in the crowd — from buttermilk to puffed rice — align perfectly with the setting of 10th century Thanjavur, enhancing the authenticity of the scene.
Mani Ratnam also adeptly portrays the flourishing trade relations of the time. The period from 900 to 1300 CE, termed the Early Age of Commerce in Southeast Asian history, saw burgeoning trade ties between China and South India.
In the film, the charioteer is usually depicted as a Chinese man when the scene is set in Lanka. The character’s inability to understand Tamil allows Arulmozhi to converse freely with his companions without worrying about eavesdropping. This detail cleverly illustrates the language and cultural barriers present in the historical trade relations.
Another historically accurate detail is Sundara Cholan’s acupuncture treatment, highlighting the influence of Chinese medical practices in the region during the time.
One of the most poignant scenes, overlooked by many in the first viewing, happens in Pazhayaarai. As Sendhan Amudhan reaches Trisha to deliver news about Vandhiya Thevan, he nods at Sembiyan Mahadevi, who responds in acknowledgment. This loaded interaction may go unnoticed if you’re unfamiliar with the book.
Sendhan Amudhan is actually Sembiyan Mahadevi’s son, while Madhurantakan is the son of Oomai Rani. Will explain in detail soon.
Sembiyan Mahadevi’s Pioneering Influence
What’s striking in the movie is Sembiyan Mahadevi sporting a pottu (bindi). A surprising element, considering the times depicted, this choice moves away from the traditional depiction of widows.
Sembiyan Mahadevi was the queen consort of the Chola Empire from 949 CE – 957 CE, wife of Gandaraditya Chola.
Following Gandaraditya’s death, Sembiyan Mahadevi, rather than committing sati or withdrawing to the Andapuram (the palace’s female quarters), chose a different path. She devoted herself to religious and social activism, becoming not only a revered dowager queen but also the matriarch of the Chola family for the next 50 years.
A 1,000-year-old idol of the Queen was traced recently by the TN Idol Wing.
A pioneer in Kalpani (literally ‘stone-work’), Sembiyan Mahadevi initiated projects that transformed ancient brick and mortar temples into enduring granite structures. Her historical foresight led her to order the copying of ancient inscriptions before the reconstruction work. The temples and icons commissioned under her oversight bore a unique mark, and she donated jewels and bronzes to many temples, some built by her and others by her son, Uttama Chola( Madhurantakan).
Symbolism of Victory and Omen: The Red Lion Flag and the Comet
A symbolic scene depicts the triumph of Chola king Arul Mozhi Varman over Mahindan, the Sri Lankan king, as the waves on the coast of Lanka wash ashore the Lankan King’s red lion flag.
A powerful visual metaphor that conveys the complete and utter defeat of the Sri Lankan forces. The foamy waves that touch the Lankan shore symbolize the Chola army’s arrival on Sri Lankan soil, and their presence is a reminder that the Chola Empire is now the dominant power in the region.
Comet in the background When Nandini order to take captive of Arulmozi
In another instance, the scene where Nandhini and Pazhuvettayir order a convoy to capture Arulmozhi, you can spot a comet in the background. This comet reappears when the Pandiya’s are shown. The comet is a symbol of foreboding, hinting at a threat to the throne or signalling the imminent death of Aditya.
The Comet Scene in Ponniyin Selvan: A Symbol of Impending Doom
Scientifically, the comet seen in Ponniyin Selvan can’t be Halley’s comet as it passed by in 989 CE, by which time Rajaraja had already ascended the throne and Aditya was dead.
Comet in the background while showing Pandiyan Prince
Historically, the appearance of a comet has often been interpreted as a sign of the impending death of a great person, usually a king. Notable examples include the comets associated with the deaths of Julius Caesar and King Harold. In 1910, when Halley’s Comet streaked across the sky, King Edward VII passed away. Around this time, Kalki (1899-1954) would have been around 11 years old and may have heard about the event.
In the context of the movie, the comet symbolizes the impending death of Aditya Karikalan. However, given Sundara Chola’s frail health, everyone interprets the comet as a prediction of his demise.
Sangam Poetry and Cinematic Genius: The Tale of Mandakini in Ponniyin Selvan
The meeting of Mandakini (Uma Rani), and Sundara Chola has a song playing in the background, it’s another example of Mani Ratnam’s brilliance.
It was so painful for me considering Mandakini’s fate. She doesn’t know she has children (will explain more on this soon); she considered Arulmozhi her son (considering it’s from her beloved one), and After years, she meets Sundara Chola again and lays down her life to save his.
Now if you try to understand more about that song, you will realise how painful it is to listen by watching Mandakini’s (Uma Rani’s) death.
This song is ‘Puranaanuru 242,’ one of the 400 songs from the ancient Tamil anthology (Sangam Poetry). AR Rahman adapted this song for the heartbreaking scene of Mandakini’s demise.
The original song was penned by Gudavai Keerathanar (was one of the poets of the Sangam period). Although he belonged to Gudavail, he visited many towns and made many friends. Perunjathan was one such friend from Ollaiyur. He was a chief Satthan (Chieftain) who was famous for his valorous deeds in battlefield.
The poet comes to the town of Ollaiyur and realises that his friend is no more. The whole town is mourning. There he composed this song out of great sadness.
In the poem, the poet questions the jasmine flower, asking why it still blooms after his death in Ollaiyur.
The lyrics go like this: “Young men don’t wear them. Women with bangles don’t pluck them. The whole town is sad because Satthan, the warrior, died. So, Jasmine, who are you blooming for? Why are you still blooming in vain?”
Nothing could better represent the tragic love and death of Mandakini. For what she lived for. It’s a painful question.
Love, Loss, and Forgotten Memories: Nandini’s Birth Secret
Sundara Chola and Mandakini were in a romantic relationship, but they were forced apart before Sundara Chola’s coronation. Overcome with heartbreak, Mandakini jumped off a lighthouse. However, Anirudha Bramarayan (was a leading minister in the court of the Sundara Chola) rescued her and sent her to Sri Lanka, while telling Sundara Chola that she had died. Meanwhile, Sundara Chola moved on, got married, and had children. His eldest son, Aditya Karikalan, was older than Nandini.
In Sri Lanka, Mandakini and Veera Pandian, both rescued by the boatman(Karuthiramaran) and with Mandakini having lost all her memories, spent a significant amount of time together. She got pregnant and decided to leave Sri Lanka, while Veera Pandian stayed back and lived with the Sri Lankan king.
On her return to Tanjore, Mandakini and her mute sister Vani encountered Sembian Mahadevi, who was also pregnant. They started living with her in the palace. Both women gave birth around the same time. Sembian Mahadevi’s son was stillborn, while Mandakini gave birth to twins and left them. Sembian Mahadevi adopted the male twin, Madhurantakan, and handed over the female twin, Nandini, to Azhwarkaddiyan’s (Nambi) parents. Vani was instructed to bury the supposedly dead infant, who, in reality, survived. She took the child, Sendhan Amudhan, and left.
Meanwhile, Veerapandiyan sent Karuthiruman (boatman played by Yog Japee) to relay a message to Mandakini, who was back in Kodi Karai under her father’s care. However, upon arrival, he found that Mandakini had suffered another accident, which had restored her memory.
She could not recognise Karuthiruman, which meant she had no recollection of what had transpired between her fall from the lighthouse and her recent accident.
Was Nandini ever in love with Aditya Karikalan?
Nandini, a creation of Kalki, is one of the most multifaceted characters you will encounter in “Ponniyin Selvan.” She is like a diamond. Not only is she stunningly beautiful, but she’s also incredibly intelligent. Her willpower and ingenuity make her a unique femme fatale in literature.
She has been described as treacherous, vicious, venomous, lethal, and dangerous. These aren’t misjudgments, as Nandini is truly the most formidable character in the novel.
Understanding Nandini takes some time because, much like a finely cut diamond, she has numerous aspects to her persona. The novel introduces us to her character well before we meet her. Kandan Maran speaks of Periya Pazhuvetarayar’s marriage to a younger woman, and teases him about his obsession with her. Later, Azhwarkadiyan shares a censored version of her life story, painting her as a sisterly figure and stoking our sympathy for her as a young woman forced to marry an older man.
We first meet Nandini through the eyes of Vandiya Devan, entranced by her beauty, as she peeks out from the curtains of a veiled palanquin to investigate the disturbance in her path.
Aditya Karikalan’s frank confession to Parthibendran uncovers more about Nandini’s history. It seems that Nandini mastered her unique brand of seduction with Aditya Karikalan. But was it love, or was it a longing for the power she would gain if she were to marry the Crown Prince? It’s hard to say for sure.
What we do know is that the deep-seated jealousy between Kundavai and Nandini originated from their childhood. Nandini coveted Kundavai’s status and influence as the Princess, while Kundavai envied Nandini’s beauty.
The scene where Nandini imagines her childhood as a queen
Nandini’s obsession with power drove her, I believe, and her confession to Aditya in the end holds some truth, in my opinion
Nandini v/s Kalpana
Do you remember the first movie that Mani Ratnam made with Aishwarya Rai? It’s Iruvar (1997).
In Iruvar, Aishwarya played a character similar to Jayalalitha. There are striking similarities in their ruthlessness.
It’s as if Mani Ratnam saw reflections of Nandini in Jayalalitha and vice versa. Like Nandhini in Jayalalitha or a Jayalalitha in Nandhini. But both are versions of Lady Macbeth considering their character shades.
That can be a reason why he picked Aishwarya for this role.
A scene in “Iruvar” where Kalpana (Aishwarya Rai) sows seeds of doubt in Anandan’s (Mohan Lal) mind is particularly reminiscent of Nandini’s manipulations.
She asked Anandan, “Who is bigger? An actor or a CM? Don’t you to wish to be the CM?“
Anandan thought about her question. He had never considered himself to be a competent to his friend Tamizhselvan. But Kalpana’s words made him wonder if he could be.
Fast forward 25 years, and the same Aishwarya Rai masterfully brings Nandini to life on screen with the same shades of Kalpana. Kalpana’s words were similar to what Nandhini had said to Pazhuvettarayar. Nandhini had charmed the elderly Pazhuvettarayar and planted the seeds of desire in him.
She had told him that Madurantakan should claim the throne, by that the power will always lies in Pazhuvettarayar.
But Nandhini had failed in her attempts unlike Kalpana.
This realisation & the guilt made her commit suicide.
Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ka Jaan(Zee5) to Skull Island (Netflix). Thrillers, Documentary, Animes, Action…the list is long and diverse.
This week OTT Releases
Kondraal Paavam – Suspense Thriller with Compelling Performances
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Directed by: Dayal Padmanabhan Cast: Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Santhosh Pratap, Eswari Rao, Charle
Plot
Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, Kondraal Paavam is a gripping Tamil remake of the Kannada film ‘Aa Karaala Ratri’. The narrative revolves around a poverty-stricken family of three — Mallika (Varalaxmi Sarathkumar) and her parents (Eswari Rao and Charle). Their mundane lives take a turn when a mysterious visitor, Arjun (Santhosh Prathap), seeks shelter at their home for the night. A series of tense events unravel, as the movie brilliantly showcases the fallout of misdirected desires and its implications.
Why You Should Try
Director Dayal Padmanabhan establishes each character’s motives and backstory proficiently, leading to a better understanding of their actions and decisions in the latter part of the film.
A standout performance by Varalaxmi Sarathkumar as Mallika, a character with a moral grey area willing to do whatever it takes to escape the shackles of poverty.
Intriguing subplots, like the enigma around the character of Arjun, keep the audience hooked.
Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan – A Mix of Salman Khan’s Trademark Action and Comedy
Remake of Tamil movie Veeram starring Ajith Kumar. Salman Khan, as Bhaijaan, is a single man who lives with his three adoptive brothers. Bhagyalaxmi’s entry complicates matters, and Bhaijaan’s potential in-laws are threatened. Bhaijaan takes matters into his own hands, and viewers are treated to traditional Salman Khan action with a comedic twist.
Why You Should Try:
Full of references to Salman Khan’s past movies, a treat for his fans.
Pooja Hegde’s charming and humorous portrayal of Bhagyalaxmi may entertain her fans.
Why You Should Skip:
Heavy reliance on Salman Khan’s star power with less emphasis on plot.
Missed opportunities to explore cultural differences and some humor may fall flat.
Action scenes might appear less impressive compared to recent action films.
Take Care of Maya – An Emotional Tangle of a Family’s Struggle
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Henry Roosevelt Documentary Genre: Health, Family, Legal
Plot
“Take Care of Maya” is a harrowing Netflix documentary following the case of Maya Kowalski, a young girl admitted to a pediatric hospital in 2016 for extreme pain. She was kept in the hospital for three months under a state-issued shelter order, separated from her parents who were suspected of medical child abuse. This documentary explores the events and their aftermath, unfolding from the perspective of the Kowalskis, through court testimony, father’s recollections, and various records from Maya’s mother.
It sheds light on a critical issue involving medical child abuse suspicion and its effect on a family.
Provides a deep dive into a rare pain syndrome case and its related controversies.
The real-life story behind the documentary is engaging and heartbreaking.
Agent – A Predictable Spy Thriller without any Thrill
Agent is a spy thriller about an unlikely protagonist, Ramakrishna aka Rikki, who dreams of becoming a RAW agent. Despite his quirks and wild behavior, Rikki catches the attention of the RAW chief, Mahadev, who sends him on a mission to thwart the evil plans of a rogue ex-RAW agent. The film follows Rikki’s misadventures as he tries to save the day, with his love interest and unpredictable actions adding to the chaos.
OTT Platform: Amazon prime Directed by: Sai Kabir Cast: Avneet Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Plot
The film was initially titled as “Divine Lovers”, with Irrfan Khan and Kangana Ranaut as main leads in 2016. Tiku, who looks at marriage as her escape to Mumbai from a local town to become an actress and Sheru, who has been working as a junior artist in the city for years. They get married and the comedy of errors for this couple starts.
Kerala Crime Files
OTT Platform: Disney Plus Hotstar Directed by: Ahammed Khabeer Cast: Aju Varghese, Lal, Navas Vallikkunnu, Sanju Sanichen
Plot
This is the first true thriller webseries from malayalam film industry & as per reports, it is based on true events.
A team of six policemen led by Sub-Inspector Manoj is on a chase to solve a murder in a suburban lodge room, with just one clue – a fake address, Shiju, Parayil Veedu, Neendakara, from a lodge register. As per the updates, ‘Kerala Crime Files’ consists of six episodes, 30 minutes each.
A middle-class family sees a brighter tomorrow when their son meets with a life-changing career opportunity. But this transition only unravels a web of trauma, raising poignant questions about wealth, power, and morality.
Secret Invasion
OTT Platform: Disney Plus Hotstar Directed by: Ali Selim Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Emilia Clarke, Martin Freeman, Cobie Smulders
Plot
Nick Fury learns of a secret invasion of Earth by a faction of shapeshifting Skrulls; Fury joins his allies, and together they race against time to thwart an imminent Skrull invasion and save humanity.
I’m a Virgo
OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Directed by: Boots Riley Cast: Jharrel Jerome, Mike Epps & Walton Goggins
Plot
It’s a coming-of-age absurdist comedy tale about Cootie, a 13-foot-tall 19-year-old black man raised by his aunt Lafrancine and uncle Martisse in Oakland, California. He is shielded from the outside world until he is accidentally discovered by a group of teenage political activists.
Skull Island (Anime)
OTT Platform: Netflix Directed by: Brian Duffield Genre: Action, Adventure & Science fiction
Plot
A group of well-meaning explorers venture out to sea to rescue Annie from the ocean. In doing so, they find themselves shipwrecked on the perilous Skull Island. Together, they fight to survive the dangers of the mysterious isle, which is home to large creatures and terrifying monsters; including Kong. This is the fifth installment overall in the franchise.
