Category Archives: What to Watch

What are the OTT releases this week? So many titles out but most of them feel average or above average. But if you’re in the mood to watch something worthwhile, Officer On Duty, Dragon, and Nodidavaru Enantare (2025) are the ones I’d recommend this week. Why I picked these three? Scroll down to read a short review without spoilers.

Gandhi Tatha Chettu (2025): A Tree, A Grandfather, and a Young Girl’s Promise

📺 Where to watch: Amazon Prime
🎬 Director: Padmavathi Malladi
⭐ Cast: Sukriti Veni Bandreddi, Anand Chakrapani, Rag Mayur, Bhanu Prakash

Plot & Review Highlights

Set in a Telangana village in the year 2000, this film follows Gandhi, a schoolgirl, who promises her dying grandfather to protect a neem tree planted in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. As the village faces pressure to sell land to a factory, young Gandhi uses non-violent methods to resist.

❤️ Sukriti Veni gives a natural, bold debut — she even tonsured her head for the role
❤️ First half is simple, grounded, and emotionally strong
❤️ Captures rural life with warmth and honesty

❌ The second half turns weak and dramatic
❌ The climax feels rushed and unrealistic

My Opinion: This is not a perfect film — but it dares to speak gently in a loud world. If you have the patience for a quiet story with an honest heart, give it a watch. Sukriti makes it worth it.

Dragon (2025): A Massy Ride With Two Climaxes and One Honest Heart

📺 Streaming on: Netflix
🎬 Director: Ashwath Marimuthu
⭐ Cast: Pradeep Ranganathan, Mysskin, Anupama, Kayadu Lohar

Plot & Review Highlights

Ragavan, a gold medalist, turns into ‘Dragon’—a college don—for love. Then comes redemption, success, and a second fall. But wait, there’s more. This film gives two full arcs: one downfall and comeback, then another. Almost like watching two stories in one.

❤️ Pradeep Ranganathan goes full mass and full emotion
❤️ Mysskin as the calm, moral principal is a surprise package
❤️ Every small scene has a smart callback — no filler

❌ Second half feels too convenient at times
❌ Women characters deserved more than being plot bridges

My Opinion: Dragon is like a Rajini-style redemption tale for this generation. Over the top, yes — but sincere. If you’re okay with some cliched moments, this one rewards you with good drama, comedy, and that rare cathartic moments.

Baby and Baby (2025): Old Wine in an Older Bottle

📺 Where to watch: Sun NXT
🎬 Director: Prathap
⭐ Cast: Jai, Yogi Babu, Sathyaraj, Pragya Nagra

Plot & Review Highlights

Two friends mix up their babies on a flight back home. One family wants a baby boy, the other believes a baby girl is lucky. Lies, confusion, and kidnapping plans follow.

❤️ Yogi Babu’s one-liners (some land, some don’t)
❤️ A couple of emotional scenes save it from total collapse

❌ Cringe comedy and dated visuals
❌ Wastes veterans like Sathyaraj and Nizhalgal Ravi
❌ Feels like a 2005 DVD re-release

My Opinion: This isn’t a comedy; it’s a time capsule. Even nostalgia can’t save it. Watch only if you want to test your patience—or enjoy chaos with zero logic.

Nodidavaru Enantare (2025): A Soul-Searching Journey That Doesn’t Play Safe

📺 Streaming on: Amazon Prime
🎬 Director: Kuldeep Cariappa
⭐ Cast: Naveen Shankar, Apoorva Bharadwaj, Padmavati Rao, Ayra Krishna

Plot & Review Highlights

Siddharth loses love, loses his job, and then loses his father. Instead of fixing things, he hits the road — to escape, to think, and maybe, to start over.

❤️ Naveen Shankar delivers a raw, silent, and moving performance
❤️ Road trip mood meets existential crisis — slow but deep
❤️ Strong visual storytelling, with emotions that don’t need dialogue

❌ Begins clunky and a bit preachy
❌ Not for those expecting commercial payoffs

My Opinion: This is not a feel-good film. It’s a feel-real one. A quiet but sharp look at loneliness, pressure, and choosing dreams over stability. Not perfect — but it lingers.

Officer On Duty (2025): First Half Hooks, Second Half Cooks

📺 Where to watch: Netflix
🎬 Director: Jithu Ashraf
⭐ Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Priyamani, Muthumani

Plot & Review Highlights

CI Harishankar, demoted and damaged, takes up a fake gold case. From their case moves to a deeper, darker past. The first half builds tension. The second half… flips the genre.

❤️ Kunchacko Boban’s intense, layered performance
❤️ Tight first half with solid investigative buildup
❤️ Jakes Bejoy’s background score keeps the grip

❌ Second half turns too commercial
❌ Emotional drama weakens the thriller tone
❌ Same old cop tropes and character shifts

My Opinion: Starts as a gripping police procedural, ends up as a stylised supercop story. Watch it for the craft, not for surprises.
📖 Want a deeper review? Read More Here

Sky Force (2025): A War Hero’s Story Hijacked Mid-Air

📺 Streaming on: Amazon Prime
🎬 Directors: Sandeep Kewlani & Abhishek Anil Kapur
⭐ Cast: Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Sara Ali Khan, Nimrat Kaur

Plot & Review Highlights

Based on India’s first air strike on Pakistani soil, the film should’ve flown high with the forgotten hero Vijayan. Instead, it turns into an Akshay Kumar show — again.

❤️ Veer Pahariya gives it soul, especially in the final act
❤️ Real story behind the 1965 Sargodha strike is powerful

❌ Akshay Kumar overshadows the real hero
❌ Female characters written like props
❌ Too much posturing, too little emotional weight

My Opinion: This could’ve been a landmark war film. But it forgets whose story it is. Watch for the visuals, stay for the last 20 mins, skip the star worship.

Khakee: The Bengal Chapter (2025): Familiar Faces, Flat Storytelling

📺 Where to watch: Netflix
🎬 Creator: Neeraj Pandey
⭐ Cast: Jeet, Prosenjit, Saswata, Parambrata, Ritwik, Chitrangada Singh

Plot & Review Highlights

Set in 2000s Bengal, this cops vs gangsters drama shows the rise of don Shankar Barua and the honest cop Arjun Maitra trying to clean the city. But beyond the setup, the show struggles to rise.

❤️ Saswata Chatterjee nails the flashback portions
❤️ Jeet fits well as the upright officer
❤️ A few interesting twists in the middle

❌ Too many clichés, too little depth
❌ Wasted talents like Parambrata & Chitrangada
❌ Bengal setting feels generic — not rooted

My Opinion: A show with top Bengali actors but no real Bengali soul. It starts with promise but quickly becomes just another slow-moving crime drama. Nothing you haven’t seen before.

Nilavukku Enmel Ennadi Kobam (2025): Love, Closure, and a Scene-Stealing Friend

📺 Streaming on: Amazon Prime
🎬 Director: Dhanush
⭐ Cast: Pavish, Anikha Surendran, Mathew Thomas, Priya Prakash Varrier

Plot & Review Highlights

Prabhu attends his ex’s wedding hoping for closure — while a new match awaits back home. What follows is a cocktail of confusion, nostalgia, and young love.

❤️ Mathew Thomas & Anikha steals every scene — the true MVP
❤️ Light-hearted take on Gen Z love & heartbreak
❤️ Dhanush’s flavour is everywhere — from house interiors to ringtone choices

❌ Lead pair lacks chemistry, performances feel uneven
❌ Too many threads, not enough depth
❌ Some scenes feel like extended Instagram reels

My Opinion: It’s Dhanush’s weakest directorial so far, but it’s still likeable — not loveable. Watch it for its charm, subtle callbacks, and a reminder that love today comes with 2x speed and emoji reactions.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

What are the OTT releases this week? After two weeks of dip in quality, this week’s OTT lineup are packed with good enetrtainers. But if you’re looking for the best picks, Hello Mummy is a fun watch, followed by Love Under Construction and Dabba Cartel. Scroll down for more!

Dabba Cartel (2025): A Spicy Mix of Crime and Chaos

Platform: Netflix
Director: Hitesh Bhatia
Cast: Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, Nimisha Sajayan, Shalini Pandey, Bhupendra Jadawat, Anjali Anand, Gajraj Rao, Lillete Dubey, Sai Tamhankar

Plot & Highlights: Dabba Cartel (2025)

What happens when a group of ordinary women accidentally step into the world of crime? Dabba Cartel answers that with a mix of thrills, chaos, and dark humour.

Between shady pharma companies, investigating officers, and dangerous criminals, 5 women must outsmart a system built to crush them.

❤️ Shabana Azmi steals the show with her effortless transformation into a no-nonsense matriarch.
❤️ The show balances humour and suspense well, making it an entertaining watch.

❌ Some moments feel exaggerated, making the plot less believable.
❌ The gangsta elements sometimes feel forced.

My Opinion: Dabba Cartel is an entertaining mix of crime and comedy, with a strong female-led cast. A good watch if you like crime dramas with a fresh twist.

Vidaamuyarchi (2025): A Gritty Actioner With a Vulnerable Ajith Kumar

Platform: Netflix
Director: Magizh Thirumeni
Cast: Ajith Kumar, Trisha, Regina Cassandra, Arav, Arjun, Anikha

Plot & Highlights: Vidaamuyarchi (2025)

Vidaamuyarchi is about Arjun (Ajith Kumar), an ordinary man thrown into extraordinary circumstances. What starts as a road trip to drop his estranged wife, Kayal (Trisha), at her parents’ place turns into a nightmare. As Kayal is kidnapped, Arjun finds himself in a deadly game where survival is the only option.

❤️ Ajith delivers one of his most grounded performances in years.
❤️ Regina Cassandra surprises with her eerie and unpredictable character.
❤️ The film’s technical aspects—cinematography, action sequences, and background score—are top-notch.

❌ Predictable twists make the suspense feel weak.
❌ Trisha’s character remains underdeveloped, serving only as a plot device.
❌ Some mass moments lack the emotional depth needed for true impact.

My Opinion: Vidaamuyarchi may entertain because of Ajith’s compelling performance and the film’s slick execution. But the film’s predictable screenplay and lack of emotional weight in key moments hold it back from being a great entertainer.

Love Under Construction (2025): A Middle-Class Man’s Battle Between Home and Heart

Platform: JioHotstar
Director: Vishnu Raghav
Cast: Neeraj Madhav, Gouri Kishan, Aju Varghese, Anand Manmadhan

Plot & Highlights: Love Under Construction (2025)

What happens when your biggest dream becomes your biggest struggle? Love Under Construction follows Vinod (Neeraj Madhav), a middle-class Malayali man living in Dubai, who dreams of building his own home back in Kerala. But as his home construction turns into a never-ending headache, so does his personal life. His relationship with Gauri (Gouri Kishan) is at a crossroads—while Vinod wants a home, Gauri wants to move to Canada. Between family drama, financial struggles, and society’s pressures, Vinod must figure out what truly matters.

❤️ Neeraj Madhav delivers a natural, relatable performance as Vinod.
❤️ Gouri Kishan’s character is refreshingly practical, breaking the usual heroine stereotypes.

❌ Some subplots feel stretched, slowing down the pacing.
❌ The conflicts, though realistic, sometimes resolve a little too easily.

My Opinion: Love Under Construction is a heartwarming and relatable feel good story that every middle-class family can see themselves in. I recommend it to those who ever tried to build a dream—be it a home or a relationship.

Sankranthiki Vasthunam (2025): A Comedy Overload That Mostly Works

Platform: Zee5
Director: Anil Ravipudi
Cast: Venkatesh, Aishwarya Rajesh, Meenaakshi Chaudhary, VK Naresh, Upendra Limaye, Saikumar

Plot & Highlights: Sankranthiki Vasthunam (2025)

Anil Ravipudi’s Sankranthiki Vasthunam is an all-out comedy that throws logic out of the window and works on Ravipudi spices. The film revolves around Raju (Venkatesh), a devoted husband stuck between his possessive wife Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh) and his ex-girlfriend-turned-police-officer Meenakshi (Meenaakshi Chaudhary). When Meenakshi re-enters his life for a high-stakes mission, chaos started, mixing romance, action, and non-stop gags.

❤️ Venkatesh shines, effortlessly balancing comedy and action.
❤️ Aishwarya Rajesh delivers a quirky, endearing performance.
❤️ The supporting cast, especially Upendra Limaye and child artist Revanth, provide some of the biggest laughs.

❌ Too many gags crammed in, leading to moments of exhaustion.
❌ Some jokes and subplots feel unnecessary, especially towards the climax.

My Opinion: Sankranthiki Vasthunam is an entertainer but if you’re looking for realism, this isn’t the film for you. But if you enjoy over-the-top, slapstick humour, then Ravipudi delivers yet another laugh riot.

Hello Mummy (2024): A Fun Horror-Comedy That Keeps You Hooked

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: Vaishakh Elans
Cast: Sharaf U Dheen, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Jagadish, Johny Antony, Aju Varghese, Bindu Panicker

Plot & Highlights: Hello Mummy (2024)

Hello Mummy is a mix of horror, comedy, and family drama into an entertaining ride. The story revolves around Boney (Sharaf U Dheen), a spoiled rich kid forced into marriage with Stephy (Aishwarya Lekshmi), an ambitious scholar. But marriage comes with an unexpected guest—Stephy’s mother, Gracy (Jagadish), who just happens to be a ghost!

While Boney just wants a normal married life, Gracy has other plans, leading to a series of comic encounters, spooky moments, and unexpected twists.

❤️ Sharaf U Dheen’s impeccable comic timing carries the film.
❤️ The mix of humour and horror keeps it engaging without getting too dark.
❤️ Supporting cast, especially Jagadish and Johny Antony, add to the fun.

❌ Some subplots feel unnecessary and underdeveloped.
❌ The climax is stretched and could have been tighter.

My Opinion: Hello Mummy is a simple yet laugh-out-loud entertainer that doesn’t take itself too seriously. While the second half could have been sharper, the film’s humour and performances make it worth a watch. If you’re in the mood for a fun horror-comedy with a heart, this one’s for you!

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

What are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, unfortunately, I couldn’t find any great options for you this week, since all releases are mediocre; if you have time, try The Mehta Boys or Mrs. Why I pick that; scroll down to read more.

Mrs. (2024): A Powerful Tale of Silent Struggles

Platform: ZEE5
Director: Arati Kadav
Cast: Sanya Malhotra, Nishant Dahiya, Kanwaljit Singh

Plot & Review: Mrs. (2024)

Richa (Sanya Malhotra), a vibrant young woman, enters an arranged marriage expecting love and companionship. But she soon finds herself trapped in a suffocating routine of a toxic patriarchal system and emotional neglect.

❤️ Sanya Malhotra’s stellar performance—she carries the film with quiet strength.
❤️ Brilliant use of food as a metaphor, showing Richa’s gradual emotional exhaustion.

❌ Some moments feel too on-the-nose, reducing the impact of subtler themes.
❌ The male characters, though well-acted, remain one-dimensional in their toxicity.

My Opinion: Mrs. is a hard-hitting, must watch film that holds a mirror to the silent struggles of countless women. While it may not add much new to The Great Indian Kitchen’s narrative, Sanya Malhotra’s performance and the film’s emotional weight make it worth watching. A must-watch if you appreciate films that challenge societal norms.

Game Changer (2024): A Political Thriller With Instant Highs, But No Lasting Impact

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: S. Shankar
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, SJ Suryah, Anjali

Plot & Review: Game Changer (2024)

Ram Nandan (Ram Charan), a principled IAS officer, takes on a ruthless politician, Bobbili Mopidevi (SJ Suryah), in a battle for power and governance. The film blends past and present political drama, tackling themes of corruption and electoral reforms, but prioritises style over substance.

❤️ Ram Charan’s powerful double role, especially his emotional portrayal of Appanna.
❤️ SJ Suryah’s scene-stealing performance adds energy to the film.

❌ The story feels rushed and choppy, lacking emotional depth.
❌ Supporting characters, including Kiara Advani, are underutilised.
❌ The climax drags with an over-the-top action sequence, diminishing its impact.

My Opinion: Game Changer delivers instant gratification with stylish action and a weak political drama but lacks the depth and emotional connection. Watch it for the style, but don’t expect a game-changing experience.

Daaku Maharaaj (2024): A Stylish Action Drama With a Weak Core

Platform: Netflix (Feb 9)
Director: Bobby Kolli
Cast: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shraddha Srinath, Bobby Deol, Pragya Jaiswal

Plot & Review: Daaku Maharaaj (2024)

When a young girl in a hill station is threatened by local gangsters, a mysterious dacoit, Maharaaj (Balakrishna), steps in under the guise of a driver. As his violent past reveals, the film attempts to mix action, hero worship, and social drama, but struggles to keep the narrative engaging.

❤️ Stylish cinematography and action sequences keep the film visually engaging.

❌ A weak villain (Bobby Deol) fails to create tension.
❌ Unnecessary subplots and underdeveloped characters dilute the impact.
❌ Forced comedy and romance feel outdated and disrupt the pacing.

My Opinion: Daaku Maharaaj delivers slick action and striking visuals, but lacks a solid emotional and narrative core. While Balakrishna and Shraddha Srinath elevate the film, the underwhelming antagonist and stretched screenplay hold it back. Watch it for high-octane action, but expect a headache if you are not used to Balayya tortures.

Madraskaaran (2024): A Predictable Action Drama That Wastes Its Potential

Platform: Aha
Director: Vaali Mohan Das
Cast: Shane Nigam, Kalaiyarasan, Niharika Konidela, Aishwarya Dutta

Plot & Review: Madraskaaran (2024)

Sathya (Shane Nigam), a Chennai native, returns to his hometown for his wedding, but a reckless car accident turns his life upside down. A fender-bender with Durai Singam (Kalaiyarasan) escalates into an ego-fueled clash, leading to tragic consequences that force Sathya to uncover the truth behind the accident.

❤️ Kalaiyarasan delivers a strong performance, though the script lets him down.
❤️ Some intense moments in the second half provide mild engagement.

❌ Weak writing choices make key moments predictable and unconvincing.
❌ Female characters are sidelined, despite being crucial to the plot.
❌ The film rushes into unnecessary twists, diluting the emotional impact.
❌ Songs and stretched-out flashbacks disrupt the pacing.

My Opinion: Madraskaaran starts with a promising setup but quickly turns into a formulaic action drama with forced twists and underwhelming execution. Shane Nigam and Kalaiyarasan do their best, but the predictable writing and lack of emotional depth make this a forgettable watch. Skip it unless you’re a fan of ego-driven action thrillers.

The Mehta Boys: A Heartfelt Father-Son Drama with Global Appeal

Platform: Prime Video
Director: Boman Irani
Cast: Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, Shreya Chaudhry

Plot & Expectations

The Mehta Boys follows Amay (Avinash Tiwary), a young architect grappling with the loss of his mother while trying to balance his career and relationship with his girlfriend, Zara (Shreya Chaudhry). His already complicated life takes an unexpected turn when his father, Mehta (Boman Irani), is forced to stay with him for an extended period. 

❤️ Boman Irani’s Directorial Debut – The veteran actor steps behind the camera for the first time, bringing years of storytelling experience to craft an intimate, emotional, and universally relatable narrative.
❤️ An International Screenplay Touch – Co-written by Academy Award winner Alexander Dinelaris (Birdman)

Final Thoughts: The Mehta Boys promises to be an emotionally rewarding and explore relationships with a mix of humour, heart, and realism.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

What are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, unfortunately, I couldn’t find any great options for you this week, since all releases are mediocre; if you have time, try Identity or The Secret of the Shiledars. Why I pick that; scroll down to read more.

Identity (Malayalam): A Twisted Thriller That Overcomplicates

Platform: ZEE5
Directors: Akhil Paul & Anas Khan
Cast: Tovino Thomas, Trisha Krishnan, Vinay Rai

Plot & Review: Identity (2024)

Alisha (Trisha Krishnan), a key witness to a crime, is placed under police protection. Sketch artist Haran (Tovino Thomas) tries to help her identify the killer, but her memory condition complicates things. The first half sets up an engaging thriller, but the second half spirals into chaos—multiple villains, forced twists, and moments where logic completely disappears.

❤️ What Works:
✔High production value, well-shot action sequences.
✔Tovino Thomas brings intensity, though his character is built just to highlight his skills.

❌ What Doesn’t:
✖The second half feels overstuffed with unnecessary subplots.
✖Trisha’s character is barely developed beyond her memory condition.
✖Some scenes defy logic—people survive fatal injuries, planes magically land.

My Opinion: While Identity starts as an intriguing thriller, it loses itself in an overcomplicated mess of twists. The film sacrifices clarity for shock value, making the second half feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. Watch if you love stylish thriller, skip if you have other choices.

Pushpa 2: The Rule – A King Without a Kingdom

Platform: Netflix
Director: Sukumar
Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil

Plot & Review: Pushpa 2 (2024)

Does the sequel justify the hype? I would say no.

The first half revisits familiar themes—Pushpa outwitting the cops, proving his dominance, and flexing his brand. The only standout is the ‘Gangamma Jatara’ sequence, where Allu Arjun, draped in a sari, exudes both ferocity and grace. But beyond these moments, the film stretches itself thin, focusing more on ego battles than storytelling.

❤️ What Works:
✔Allu Arjun’s larger-than-life presence, especially in the Jatara scene.
✔ Stunning visuals and music.

❌ What Doesn’t:
✖ A predictable plot—too many recycled elements from part one.
✖ Shekhawat lacks menace; he’s more ego-driven than strategic.

My Opinion: The highs are high, but the narrative feels stretched, lacking the punch that made the first one special. Watch for the grandeur, but don’t expect anything fresh.

Emakku Thozhil Romance: A Rom-Com Without the Romance or Comedy

Platform: Sun NXT
Director: Balaji Kesavan
Cast: Ashok Selvan, Avantika Mishra, Urvashi, Bagavathi Perumal

Plot & Review: Emakku Thozhil Romance (2024)

Uma (Ashok Selvan) is an aspiring filmmaker who dreams of winning an Oscar but spends most of the film entangled in relationship misunderstandings with Leo (Avantika Mishra).

❤️ What Works:
✔ Urvashi brings life to an otherwise forgettable film.
✔ A few slapstick comedy moments land well.
✔ Short runtime (100 minutes) prevents complete exhaustion ;-).

❌ What Doesn’t:
✖ The romance feels hollow, with no real depth in writing.
✖ The conflicts are forced and repetitive.

My Opinion: While Emakku Thozhil Romance tries to be a lighthearted rom-com, it lacks both charm and originality. Watch if you enjoy mindless entertainment, but don’t expect much else.

The Secret of the Shiledars: A Historical Treasure Hunt With a Modern Twist

Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Director: Aditya Sarpotdar
Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal, Sai Tamhankar, Gaurav Amlani, Ashish Vidyarthi

Plot & Review: The Secret of the Shiledars (2025)

Dr. Ravi Bhatt (Rajeev Khandelwal) discovers he is part of the legendary Shiledars, a secret group protecting Chhatrapati Shivaji’s lost treasure. Along with Aditya (Gaurav Amlani) and Priya (Sai Tamhankar), he embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth, battling hidden enemies and solving age-old mysteries

❤️ What Works:
✔ Rich historical backdrop adds depth to the mystery.
✔ Rajeev Khandelwal delivers a solid performance.
✔ Crisp runtime (35 min episodes) keeps it engaging.

❌ What Doesn’t:
✖ The supporting cast lacks strong character development.
✖ A few predictable plot points take away the thrill.

My Opinion: While The Secret of the Shiledars is an entertaining mix of history and adventure, it doesn’t reinvent the treasure hunt genre. Watch if you love mystery thrillers with a historical touch, but don’t expect a mind-blowing revelation.

Dhoom Dhaam (Telugu): A Predictable Comedy That Struggles to Stand Out

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: Sai Kishore Macha
Cast: Chetan Krishna, Hebah Patel, Sai Kumar, Vennela Kishore, Prithviraj, Goparaju Ramana

Plot & Review: Dhoom Dhaam (2024)

Karthik (Chetan Krishna) falls in love with Suhan (Hebah Patel) and plans to marry her with their parents’ blessings. However, things take a turn when he realizes her father, Mahendra Bhupati (Vinay Varma), has a mysterious past connection with his family. What follows is a mix of comedy, misunderstandings, and family drama.

❤️ What Works:
✔ Vennela Kishore’s humor saves the second half.
✔ Decent music and vibrant visuals.

❌ What Doesn’t:
✖ Predictable storyline with no surprises.
✖ The first half lacks energy and feels stretched.
✖ Chetan Krishna’s performance is serviceable but lacks depth.

My Opinion: While Dhoom Dhaam has a few entertaining moments, it mostly feels like an old story with a new cast. Watch if you’re in the mood for a time-pass entertainer, but don’t expect anything fresh.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

What are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, unfortunately, I couldn’t find any great options for you this week, since all releases are mediocre except Night Agent season 2. Why I pick that; scroll down to read more.

Srikakulam Sherlock Holmes: A Detective Without Direction

Platform: ETV Win
Director: Mohan
Cast: Vennela Kishore, Ananya Nagalla, Prabhakar, Anish Kuruvilla

Plot & Review: Srikakulam Sherlock Holmes (2024)

Balu (Vennela Kishore), a telephone booth operator, finds himself entangled in a mysterious case alongside Brahma (Ananya Nagalla), a police officer, and a group of fishermen. As a private detective, Balu must solve the case within seven days, but the deeper he digs, the more tangled the truth becomes.

❤️ Ananya Nagalla at her best, making the most of her well-written role.
❤️ Some Srikakulam-accented humour works in parts, bringing a lighthearted touch.
❌ Forced twists undermine character consistency, making the story feel insincere.
❌ The film struggles between paying homage to Chiru’s Chantabbai and becoming a shallow imitation.

Opinion: Despite Vennela Kishore’s comedic strengths, Srikakulam Sherlock Holmes fails to balance humour with mystery. Instead of an engaging detective thriller, the film relies on predictable reveals and uninspired writing. 

Hisaab Barabar: A Math Whiz in a Messy Thriller

Platform: ZEE5
Director: Ashwani Dhir
Cast: R Madhavan, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Kirti Kulhari, Manu Rishi

Plot & Review: Hisaab Barabar (2024)

Radhe Mohan Sharma (R Madhavan), a ticket collector with a sharp mind for numbers, finds himself entangled in the shady dealings of a corrupt banker, Mickey Mehta (Neil Nitin Mukesh). As he navigates a financial scam, a police officer (Kirti Kulhari) with a past connection to him complicates matters further.

❤️ Madhavan brings his affable charm, making even dull scenes watchable.
❤️ The film had the potential to be a sharp social satire on corruption.
❌ Neil Nitin Mukesh’s over-the-top villain weakens the narrative.
❌ Forced humour and underdeveloped subplots drag down the storytelling.

Opinion: Hisaab Barabar starts with an interesting premise but quickly loses its footing due to cartoonish villains and clunky execution. Madhavan’s performance is a saving grace, but the film fails to balance its social message with engaging storytelling. A forgettable thriller with wasted potential.

The Smile Man: A Cop, A Killer, A Missed Opportunity

Platform: Aha
Director: Syam-Praveen
Cast: Sarathkumar, Kalaiyarasan, Suresh Menon, Sija Rose, Sreekumar

Plot & Review: The Smile Man (2024)

Chidambaram Nedumaran (Sarathkumar), a retired cop battling Alzheimer’s, is pulled back into a serial killer case. The elusive “Smile Man” leaves behind gruesome victims with eerie carved smiles, and Chidambaram must race against his fading memory to catch him.

❤️ Sarathkumar delivers a committed performance despite the film’s flaws.
❤️ The premise has potential, mixing crime with a psychological edge.
❌ Overuse of flashbacks and sluggish pacing drain the suspense.
❌ The killer’s weak backstory and plot loopholes dull the impact.

Opinion: Despite a gripping setup, The Smile Man turns into a sluggish thriller that never fully utilises its strengths. Sarathkumar shines, but the film’s predictable writing and uninspired execution leave it struggling to stand out. A thriller that needed sharper teeth like Por Thozhil.

Thiru.Manickam: A Moral Tale That Feels Too Preachy

Platform: ZEE5
Director: Nandha Periyasamy
Cast: Samuthirakani, Ananya, Bharathiraja, Nassar, Thambi Ramaiah

Plot & Review: Thiru.Manickam (2024)

Manickam (Samuthirakani), a humble lottery ticket seller in Kumily, discovers that an old man (Bharathiraja) has won a ₹1.5 crore jackpot. Despite his own financial struggles, Manickam embarks on a mission to hand over the prize to its rightful owner. However, his journey is filled with resistance—from his family’s desperation to corrupt police officers trying to seize the money.

❤️ Samuthirakani fits the role perfectly, delivering his signature earnest performance.
❤️ The film attempts to highlight righteousness and social values.
❌ Overt messaging makes the film feel more like a moral lecture than a gripping drama.
❌ Convenient plot points and exaggerated scenarios dilute the impact.

Opinion: While Thiru.Manickam starts with a promising premise, it quickly loses its charm due to heavy-handed storytelling and unrealistic conveniences. It aims to be an uplifting tale of honesty but ends up feeling contrived and repetitive. A film with good intentions but weak execution.

Barroz: A Grand Vision That Falls Short

Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Director: Mohanlal
Cast: Mohanlal, Maya Rao West, Guru Somasundaram

Plot & Review: Barroz (2024)

Barroz (Mohanlal), a ghostly guardian, has spent 400 years protecting a hidden treasure, waiting for the rightful heir of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. As modern-day investors plan to turn the palace into a casino, Barroz’s duty is tested, leading to an adventure filled with magic, history, and redemption.

❤️ Mohanlal’s presence adds gravitas to the fantasy setting.
❤️ Some 3D sequences and visual effects are well-executed.
❌ The screenplay feels weak, with overdramatic dialogues that dilute the impact.
❌ The storytelling lacks depth, making it less engaging for children and adults alike.

Opinion: As Mohanlal’s ambitious directorial debut, Barroz had the potential to be a landmark fantasy film. However, its sluggish pacing, inconsistent writing, and uneven VFX make it a missed opportunity rather than a magical adventure. While visually appealing in parts, it struggles to deliver an emotionally compelling experience.

Razakar: History or Hysteria?

Platform: Aha
Director: Yata Satyanarayana
Cast: Raj Arjun, Indraja, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Makarand Deshpande

Plot & Review: Razakar (2024)

Set during the turbulent integration of Hyderabad into India, Razakar attempts to depict the atrocities committed by the Nizam’s private militia. The film follows a brutal, one-sided narrative, showing Hindu villages under attack and portraying the Razakars as bloodthirsty villains. Packed with gory visuals, exaggerated violence, and politically charged storytelling, it prioritises shock value over nuance.

❤️ Strong production values, especially in cinematography and costume design.
❤️ Powerful background score enhances the intensity of key scenes.
❌ Overly simplistic and one-dimensional portrayal of history.
❌ Excessive, graphic violence desensitises rather than engages the audience.

Opinion: Razakar tries to be a historical exposé but ends up as a loud, sensationalised retelling that prioritises fear-mongering over balanced storytelling. Instead of offering an insightful take on Hyderabad’s past, it leans on exaggerated violence and selective narratives, making it a film that serves a political agenda more than historical accuracy.

The Night Agent 2: Action-Packed But Missing the Spark

Platform: Netflix
Director: Shawn Ryan
Cast: Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, Arienne Mandi, Amanda Warren, Brittany Snow, Keon Alexander

Plot & Review: The Night Agent (Season 2)

Ten months after saving the President, Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) is now a full-fledged agent of the top-secret Night Action program. Sent on an intel mission to Thailand, his assignment goes sideways, forcing him to return to New York, where he suspects a mole is working against the agency. Meanwhile, a young Iranian diplomat, Noor (Arienne Mandi), wants to defect but is caught in a dangerous web of espionage and betrayal.

❤️ The high-stakes espionage keeps the tension alive.
❤️ Noor’s subplot adds depth, exposing political hypocrisies.
❌ Lacks the gripping romance of Season 1—Peter and Rose feel sidelined.
❌ Over-reliance on action dilutes the character-driven storytelling.

Opinion: While The Night Agent 2 retains the fast-paced action and high-stakes conspiracies, it struggles to recreate the magic of its debut season yet is watchable. The espionage elements remain thrilling, but the emotional core—especially Peter and Rose’s chemistry—feels neglected. With Season 3 already confirmed, here’s hoping the show balances its action with deeper character moments.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

What are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, here are 3 options that I think are worth checking out. I am Kathalan, Paatal Lok 2 and Pani are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Rifle Club: Style and Action, But Lacks Traction

Platform: Netflix
Director: Aashiq Abu
Cast: Darshana Rajendran, Dileesh Pothan, Anurag Kashyap, Vani Vishwanath, Hanumankind

Plot & Review: Rifle Club (2024)

Set in a remote rifle club deep in the Western Ghats, the film follows superstar Shahjahan (Vineeth Kumar), who arrives hoping to train for a hunting-themed film. However, a massy killing spree follows when a powerful arms dealer, Dayanand (Anurag Kashyap), and his gang invade the club, leading to a violent showdown.

❤️ Stunning cinematography and rich visuals make it a visual treat
❤️ Well-executed action sequences, including a sharpshooter on a bike, add excitement
❌ Weak writing, especially in the climax, leaves the film feeling shallow
❌ Some talented actors feel underutilised in an overcrowded cast

My Opinion: Rifle Club delivers on action and style but lacks depth in storytelling. With sharper writing (more prfoane and anarchy as the script demands), it could have been a knockout thriller.

Alangu: A Simple Yet Engaging Survival Thriller

Platform: Prime Video
Director: SP Sakthivel
Cast: Gunanidhi, Kaali Venkat, Appani Sarath, Chemban Vinod Jose, Sreerekha

Plot & Review: Alangu (2024)

Dharman (Gunanidhi), a socially outcast labourer, finds solace in a stray dog he rescues. When he travels to a village on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border for work, he crosses paths with Augustine (Chemban Vinod Jose), a ruthless man who orders a brutal culling of village dogs. This act triggers a tense battle for survival, testing Dharman’s resilience.

❤️ Gunanidhi delivers a restrained yet powerful performance, carrying the film with ease.
❤️ Strong emotional core with the man-dog bond adding depth to the narrative.
❌ Underdeveloped villains make the conflict feel one-dimensional.
❌ Some predictable moments and an extended runtime slow down the pacing.

My Opinion: Alangu keeps you invested with its emotional moments and raw survival elements. While it doesn’t break new ground, its engaging execution and heartfelt performances make it worth a watch.

Anand Sreebala: A Familiar Yet Engaging Mystery Thriller

Platform: ManoramaMAX
Director: Vishnu Vinay
Cast: Arjun Ashokan, Sangita, Aparna Das, Siddique, Saiju Kurup

Plot & Review: Anand Sreebala (2024)

When Merin Joy, a young law student, is found dead in the backwaters of Kochi, the police quickly rule it as suicide. However, her grieving parents suspect foul play. Journalist Sreebala (Aparna Das) takes up the case for a crime show, and her boyfriend Anand (Arjun Ashokan), an aspiring police officer, joins the investigation. As Anand digs deeper, his past trauma and his late mother’s influence shape his quest for justice.

❤️ Arjun Ashokan delivers a compelling performance, balancing vulnerability and determination.
❤️ The procedural elements keep the mystery engaging despite predictable moments.
❌ Some leaps in logic and convenient deductions weaken the case buildup.
❌ Aparna Das’s character feels sidelined despite being central to the plot.

My Opinion: Anand Sreebala is a watchable thriller with a solid lead performance and a gripping mystery. However, it sticks too closely to old-school investigative tropes, leaving little room for fresh storytelling.

I Am Kathalan: A Relatable Techno-Thriller That Plays It Safe

Platform: ManoramaMAX
Director: Girish A.D
Cast: Naslen, Anishma Anilkumar, Dileesh Pothan, Lijomol Jose

Plot & Review: I Am Kathalan (2024)

Vishnu (Naslen), a directionless engineering graduate with a history of cyber mischief, spirals into hacking after his girlfriend Shilpa (Anishma Anilkumar) breaks up with him. His small-scale pranks escalate into a serious cybercrime that puts him in the crosshairs of an ethical hacker (Lijomol Jose).

❤️ Authentic depiction of hacking, avoiding over-the-top tech jargon.
❤️ Naslen’s minimalistic, introverted performance makes the character relatable.
❌ Lack of high-stakes moments makes the cat-and-mouse game feel underwhelming.
❌ A rushed moral resolution limits the film’s impact.

My Opinion: I Am Kathalan keeps things engaging with its realistic approach and well-timed humour but doesn’t go all in on its cyber-thriller potential. It plays it safe, offering a brisk yet predictable watch.

Pani: A Gritty, Blood-Soaked Revenge Drama

Platform: SonyLIV
Director: Joju George
Cast: Joju George, Sagar Surya, V.P. Junaiz, Prashanth Alexander, Chandini Sreedharan

Plot & Review: Pani (2024)

Two amateur criminals, Don (Sagar Surya) and Siju (V.P. Junaiz), commit a brutal murder but soon find themselves in a deadly clash with a powerful mafia syndicate led by Giri (Joju George). What starts as a hit job spirals into a violent power struggle in the underbelly of Thrissur.

❤️ Joju George’s direction keeps the tension alive with sharp pacing and intense action.
❤️ The mafia syndicate’s internal dynamics add depth beyond a typical revenge plot.
❌ Excessive gore and graphic violence might not be for everyone.
❌ Overused tropes like sexual assault as a revenge trigger feel unnecessary.

My Opinion: Pani engages you with its raw execution, gripping action, and strong performances, even if the story follows a familiar revenge template. A brutal, well-crafted thriller that doesn’t hold back.

Paatal Lok 2: A Darker, Sharper, and More Ambitious Sequel

Platform: Prime Video
Director: Avinash Arun Dhaware
Cast: Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh, Gul Panag, Tillotama Shome, Anurag Arora, Nagesh Kukunoor, Jahnu Barua

Plot & Review: Paatal Lok 2 (2025)

After five years, Hathi Ram Chaudhary (Jaideep Ahlawat) returns, this time drawn into a politically charged murder case linked to Nagaland’s power struggles. As the investigation unfolds, it exposes deep-seated tensions, hidden agendas, and a battle between law and corruption.

❤️ Jaideep Ahlawat delivers another powerhouse performance as the weary but relentless cop.
❤️ The shift to Nagaland adds authenticity, tackling complex regional politics with nuance.
❌ The South Delhi subplot feels unnecessary and underdeveloped.
❌ Some characters drop off midway, leaving a few loose ends.

My Opinion: Paatal Lok 2 raises the stakes with its bold storytelling, blending crime, politics, and human drama. With gripping performances and a layered narrative, it can be marked as one of 2025’s best shows.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.