Category Archives: What to Watch

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.

The Trial: An intoxicating blend of personal drama and courtroom suspense!

OTT Platform: Disney+Hotstar
Directed by: Suparn Verma
Cast: Kajol, Jisshu Sengupta, Sheeba Chaddha, Kubbra Sait, Alyy Khan

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

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Randeep Jha
Cast: Suvinder Vicky, Barun Sobti, Manish Chaudhari, Harleen Sethi, Varun Badola, Rachel Shelley

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.

Janaki Jaane: Fear, Tear & Mere!

OTT Platform: Disney+Hotstar
Directed by: Aneesh Upasana
Cast: Navya Nair, Saiju Kurup, Johny Antony

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

OTT Platform: Jio Cinema
Director: Avishek Ghosh
Cast: Mohit Raina, Lara Dutta, Neena Gupta, Kanwaljit Singh

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.

OTT Sequels This Week

Storybots: Answer Time Season 2
OTT platform: Netflix

The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 2
OTT platform: Amazon Prime Video

College Romance Season 4
OTT platform: SonyLIV

Looking for a good scare? This Israeli thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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 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

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

OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Directed by: Sankalp Reddy
Cast: Vidyut Jammwal, Anupam Kher, Vishal Jethwa, Dalip Tahil, Faizan Khan, Niharica Raizada

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: A Failed Horror Experiment

OTT Platform: Aha Cinema
Directed by: Nambikkai Chandru
Cast: Sandy Master, Shruthi Selvam, Mime Gopi, Saravanan, Rama, Reshma, Gautham Vasudev Menon

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 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 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

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: A Tale of Resilience and Determination

OTT Platform: Jio Cinema
Directed by: Shome Makhija
Cast: Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak, Lillete Dubey, Shubham Saraf

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 (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)

OTT Platform: Zee5
Directed by: Promita Bhattacharya
Cast: Bonny Sengupta, Ayoshi Talukdar

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.

Other OTT Releases This Week

Katharbasha Endra Muthuramalingam, ZEE5

Hack My Home, Netflix

Beautiful Disaster (2023), Amazon Prime

Hawa, SonyLiv

For more movie suggestion, click here.

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.

Veeran – A Mythical Superhero Comedy

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: ARK Saravan
Cast: Hiphop Adhi, Vinay Rai, R Badree

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.

Read detailed review here.

Vimanam – A Melodrama of Love and Determination

OTT Platform: ZEE5
Directed by: Siva Prasad Yanala
Cast: Samuthirakani, Master Dhruvan, Rahul Ramakrishna, Anasuya Bharadwaj

Plot Synopsis

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

OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Directed by: Vinayak Chandrasekaran
Cast: Manikandan, Meetha Raghunath, Ramesh Thilak, Raichal Rabecca

Plot Synopsis:

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.

Afwaah – A Must Watch Political Warfare

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Sudhir Mishra
Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bhumi Pednekar, Sumeet Vyas, Sharib Hashmi

Plot Synopsis

Afwaah is a powerful socio-political thriller revolving around the menacing spread of rumors and the consequential mob violence that it spurs.

The film’s examination of contemporary socio-political dynamics makes it a gripping watch, especially in the context of today’s digital world.

The narrative, though complex, is layered with well-crafted elements of political intrigue and human vulnerability, making it quite relatable.

Read detailed review here.

Other OTT Releases This Week

Hijack – Apple Tv

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.

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.

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

OTT Platform: ZEE5
Directed by: Farhad Samji
Cast: Salman Khan, Pooja Hegde, Venkatesh, Bhumika Chawla, Shehnaaz Gill, Jagapathi Babu, Palak Tiwari

Plot

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

OTT Platform: SonyLIV
Directed by: Surender Reddy
Cast: Akhil Akkineni, Mammootty, Dino Morea, Sakshi Vaidya

Plot

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.

• Interesting plot with juxtaposed roles between ‘The Devil’ and ‘The God’.

Why You Should Skip

• The love track is forced and seems out of place, and the musical score fails to add value.
• The narrative is inconsistent with jarring tonal shifts and misplaced ‘mass moments’.
• Major character reveals are handled with nonchalance, reducing their impact.
• The film fails to build emotional depth, making significant scenes feel unimpressive.

John Wick: Chapter 4 – A Riveting Action-Packed Finale

OTT Platform: Lionsgate Play
Directed by: Chad Stahelski
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Lance Reddick

Read detailed review here.

Exclusive OTT Releases This Week

Tiku Weds Sheru 

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.

Kafas

OTT Platform: SonyLiv
Directed by: Sahil Sangha
Cast: Sharman Joshi, Mona Singh, Zarina Wahab

Plot

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.

For more suggestions and reviews click here.

Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? From I Love You(Jio Cinema) to Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King (Netflix). Thrillers, Romance, Animes, Action…the list is long and diverse.

1. I Love You – A Twisted Tale of Love and Revenge

OTT Platform: Jio Cinema (Hindi)
Directed by: Nikhil Mahajan
Cast: Rakul Preet Singh, Pavail Gulati, Akshay Oberoi, Kiran Kumar

Plot Synopsis

“I Love You,” directed by Nikhil Mahajan, known for his successful Marathi film “Godavari,” is an unconventional romantic thriller that promises to defy expectations. The plot revolves around Satya Prabhakar (Rakul Preet Singh), an independent working woman in Mumbai, whose life takes a drastic turn just when she decides to advance her relationship with her love interest. As the story unfolds, it takes the audience on a thrilling journey of revenge and justice that Satya seeks.

The trailer, already captivating the viewers, introduces a complex love triangle involving Satya, Pavail Gulati, and Akshay Oberoi’s characters. As the tale progresses, it uncovers a web of betrayal and murder that hints at an exciting and suspense-filled narrative that challenges conventional notions of love stories.

2. Tamilarasan – ‘Paasam’ filled with Courage and Justice

OTT Platform: Zee5 (Tamil)
Directed by: Babu Yogeswaran
Cast: Vijay Antony, Suresh Gopi, Sonu Sood, Remya Nambeesan

Plot Synopsis

Tamilarasan (Vijay Antony), a dedicated cop, and his wife Leena (Remya Nambeesan) are hit with a heavy blow when they learn that their son Prabhakar (Pranav Mohan) has a weak heart that requires an immediate transplant. However, the hospital where they admit him prioritizes profits over patients, making Prabhakar’s life a low concern. This infuriates Tamilarasan, who takes heart specialist Dr. Muruganantham (Suresh Gopi) hostage to ensure his son’s treatment. All the while, his corrupt superior Rana Pratap Singh (Sonu Sood) is eager to bring him down. The film follows Tamilarasan’s desperate struggle to save his son, battling a system steeped in greed and corruption.

Why You Should Try

The performances by Vijay Antony and Suresh Gopi, along with the supporting cast, add to the intense and dramatic narrative. The movie’s attempt to address issues like medical corruption and the importance of organ transplantation, although not without flaws, offers food for thought.

Why You Should Skip

The movie is stuffed with melo-drama. Some of the serious scenes might seem funny by accident, and the movie doesn’t do enough research on organ transplantation, which makes the story less believable.The movie also suffers from an underdeveloped script and a lack of character depth.

3. Kandahar – An Underwhelming Journey Through Hostile Territory

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (English)
Directed by: Ric Roman Waugh
Cast: Gerard Butler, Ali Fazal, Navid Negahban, Bahador Foladi

Plot Synopsis

The plot follows the adrenaline-fueled journey of undercover CIA operative, Tom Harris (Gerard Butler), whose mission in the hostile territory of Afghanistan takes a dangerous turn when an intelligence leak exposes his identity. He must navigate through perilous obstacles to an extraction point in Kandahar, avoiding an elite special forces unit out to get him. Ali Fazal plays the role of Kahil, involved in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with Butler’s character.

Why You Should Try

It is based on the true events from the life of a former military intelligence officer. If you are a fan of Gerard Butler or Ali Fazal, their performances might be a reason to give this film a try. The film’s brilliant cinematography and the gripping narrative, drawing inspiration from real-life events, could provide an exciting cinematic journey.

Why You Should Skip

Despite its promising premise, Kandahar seems to have fallen short of delivering a thrilling action film. The film also brings up social issues, such as the oppression of women, but fails to address them meaningfully, which may frustrate viewers seeking a deeper narrative. Kandahar’s Western saviour narrative may seem uninspired and xenophobic. This film might not be for those seeking fresh, compelling narratives or exciting action sequences in the genre.

4. Extraction 2 – The Return of the Rake: No Boundaries, No Mercy

Platform: Netflix (English)
Director: Sam Hargrave
Main Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa

Plot Summary

Extraction 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Netflix’s 2020 hit, brings back the formidable mercenary Tyler Rake, played by Chris Hemsworth. This time, Rake must rescue a Georgian gangster’s family from a foreign prison.

Aiming to deepen Rake’s backstory, the sequel introduces new characters and offers more insight into Rake’s motivations. The film promises high-octane action, including a stunning 21-minute escape scene featuring Hemsworth himself. Director Sam Hargrave raves about Hemsworth’s commitment to his role, commending his physical and emotional performances.

5. Shaitan – A Bold Take on Survival and Crime

OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar (Telugu)
Directed by: Mahi V Raghav
Cast: Rishi, Shelly, Deviyani, Jaffer Sadiq, Ravi Kale, Lenaa

Plot Synopsis

Shaitan focuses on a family of four struggling to survive in the toughest conditions. Each family member resorts to a life of crime, which they see as a means of survival. The series paints an unfiltered picture of the socio-political circumstances that trigger Bali, the head of the family, into a world of crime. The rise and fall of this criminal family form the crux of this gripping Telugu crime drama.

Why You Should Try

Shaitan may appeal to those who appreciate intense crime dramas that shed light on the darker aspects of society.

Why You Should Skip

Shaitan is filled with explicit content, strong language, and graphic violence, making it unsuitable for sensitive viewers. It pushes boundaries with its bold scenes and disturbing elements, which might not appeal to everyone.

6. 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

Plot Synopsis

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.

Why You Should Try

Farhana is an intriguing drama that highlights empowerment and the freedom of choice. Aishwarya Rajesh delivers a standout performance, bolstered by a nuanced script and strong supporting cast. The film creatively employs symbolism and parallels, making it a thought-provoking watch. Its suspenseful narrative and the impactful portrayal of a woman’s fight against societal norms could be engaging for many viewers.

Why You Should Skip

Farhana might not suit everyone due to its pacing issues and some plot points that might stir controversy. Some scenes and dialogues may unintentionally evoke laughter, and the hurried climax might not satisfy everyone. If you are uncomfortable with the depiction of certain regressive societal viewpoints or prefer a lighter narrative, Farhana may not be your cup of tea.

7. Bichagadu 2 (Pichaikkaran 2)

OTT Platform: Disney + Hotstar (Telugu)
Director, Music Director, Editor: Vijay Antony
Cast: Vijay Antony, John Vijay & Kavya Thapar

Plot Synopsis

In Bichagadu 2, Vijay Antony takes on the roles of a billionaire named Vijay Gurumoorthy and a beggar named Sathya. The story twists when Sathya, with a hard past, is a victim of an illegal brain transplant that forces him into the life of a billionaire.

Why You Should Try

The film tries to build a new narrative using the original movie’s framework, which might appeal to fans of the first instalment.

Why You Should Skip

The movie falls short due to its lackluster storyline and simplistic treatment of a classic double-action trope. The supporting characters, action scenes, and songs are forgettable, diminishing the overall impact.

8. Raavana Kottam – Clash of Castes, Clash of Ideals

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (Tamil)
Directed by: Vikram Sugumaran
Cast: Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, Prabhu, Anandhi, Sanjay Saravanan

Plot Synopsis

Raavana Kottam is set in Ramnad district where the village is divided into Meltheru and Keezhtheru, both living peacefully due to the influence of respected villager Chandrabose (Prabhu) and his son Sengu (Shanthnu). Sengu’s love for Indhira (Anandhi) creates tension between Meltheru and Keezhtheru, leading to the destruction of their harmony. This clash is further exploited by politicians for their gain. The film ends on an emotional note, highlighting the exploitation of innocent villagers by power-hungry politicians.

Why You Should Try

The film stands out for its socio-political narrative that deals with caste politics, water scarcity, and corporate mafia. Shanthnu’s performance is commendable, and he tries to hold the film singlehandedly. The landscape of the Ramnad district is beautifully captured.

Why You Should Skip

Raavana Kottam has its flaws, with a lack of depth and impact being major ones. The humour falls flat, and the film suffers from one-dimensional characters. The narrative is not powerful enough to hold your attention throughout. If you prefer movies with well-rounded characters and a strong, focused storyline, Raavana Kottam might disappoint you.

9. Jee Karda – A Tale of Love, Friendship, and Understanding

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime (Hindi)
Directed by: Arunima Sharma
Cast: Tamannaah Bhatia, Suhail Nayyar, Aashim Gulati

Plot Synopsis

Set amidst a group of seven childhood friends, Jee Karda is a tale of love, friendship, and unexpected realisations. At present, two of the friends decide to get married, but they start to realise that they might not be in love after all. The movie follows them as they deal with the challenges of their relationship and try to figure out what they really want.

Why You Should Try

Last week, Tamannaah was trending on Twitter. I believe Tamannaah Bhatia and Suhail Nayyar are the biggest reasons to watch this movie. The movie is trying to explore the complicated love-friendship spectrum of urban couples.

Why You Should Skip

If you are looking for an intense drama or a great romantic movie, Jee Karda might not cater to your taste. The movie’s deep focus on the celebration of friendships and romantic relationships, and the lack of depth in characters or plot elements might not be okay with all viewers. If you love dramas like Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar
Go for it, or else skip it.

10. Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Ayataka Tanemura

Plot Synopsis

Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King is a highly anticipated film in the Black Clover franchise, following the hit anime series. Set to unravel an all-new story, the film brings viewers back to the Clover Kingdom after a hiatus since the season four finale.

The protagonist, Asta, will encounter the former Wizard King and a host of new and familiar characters. Although the storyline details are currently under wraps, fans can anticipate thrilling battles and stunning animation.

The original manga creator Yūki Tabata is serving as the movie’s chief supervisor and original character designer. Key members of the television anime staff will be returning for the film, under the direction of Ayataka Tanemura. The film will boast of character designs by Itsuko Takeda and music composition by Minako Seki.

Other OTT Releases this week

Vamanan (Malayalam)

OTT Platform: Manorama Max

Rafuchakkar

OTT Platform: Jio Cinema

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