Tag Archives: OTT Releases This Week

Which are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, here are 2 picks that I think are worth checking out. Bhageera, Thekku Vadakku are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Bagheera: Loud Superhero

Platform: Netflix
Director: Dr Suri
Cast: Srii Murali, Rukmini Vasanth, Prakash Raj

Plot: Bagheera

Set in the port city of Mangaluru, Bagheera tells the story of Vedanth (Srii Murali), a gold medallist cop disillusioned by corruption within the system, including his own family. This betrayal drives him to don the mask of a black panther and take on the role of a vigilante superhero.

The film explores his fight for justice while navigating personal struggles.

Highlights: Bhageera

❤️ Srii Murali shines as the commanding superhero, combining daredevilry with a striking screen presence.
❤️ Chethan D Souza’s action sequences and Ajaneesh Loknath’s powerful background score elevate the cinematic experience.
❤️ Prakash Raj delivers intrigue as the sharp CBI officer on Bagheera’s trail.
❌ Rukmini Vasanth’s character is underutilised, with the love story feeling superficial.
❌ The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey could have been explored more.

If you love stylish, action-packed superhero dramas with a desi touch, Bagheera is a must-watch. Streaming now on Netflix!

Petta Rap: A Musical Action Drama That Misses the Beat

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: SJ Sinu
Cast: Prabhu Deva, Vedhika, Mime Gopi, Riyaz Khan

Plot: Petta Rap

Balasubramanian, aka Bala (Prabhu Deva), once nicknamed ‘junior Prabhu Deva’ in school, struggles to make it as an actor while grappling with self-doubt and unexpected challenges. The story revolves around his quest for purpose and success, interspersed with action, songs, and messages.

Highlights: Petta Rap

❤️ Vedhika delivers a commendable performance as Jeni, a successful singer.
❌ The film’s musical aspect disappoints with unmemorable songs and lacklustre lyrics.
❌ Prabhu Deva’s character struggles to connect, lacking depth and consistency.
❌ Over-the-top action and poorly written subplots derail the narrative.

Despite its ambitious attempt to blend music, drama, and action, Petta Rap falls short of expectations. Streaming now on Amazon Prime!

Thekku Vadakku: A Satirical Tale That Misses Its Mark

Platform: Manorama Max
Director: Prem Shankar
Cast: Vinayakan, Suraj Venjaramoodu

Plot: Thekku Vadakku

Set in a village where petty ego clashes take centre stage, Thekku Vadakku tells the story of Madhavan (Vinayakan) and Shankunni (Suraj Venjaramoodu), two men locked in a decades-long legal feud over a piece of land. While the entire village becomes engrossed in their rivalry, the actual reason for their conflict remains a mystery.

Highlights: Thekku Vadakku

❤️ Vinayakan and Suraj Venjaramoodu bring distinct energy to their roles, though their efforts feel misplaced.
❤️ The humour falls flat in some areas, but it works in most areas because of the mannerisms from the lead characters.
❌ The lack of intensity in the central conflict leaves the audience disengaged.

With a promising premise and a talented cast, Thekku Vadakku had the potential to deliver a biting satire and worked here and there. Streaming now on Manorama Max!

Lineman: A Rural Drama with Missed Opportunities

Platform: Aha
Director: M Udhayakumar
Cast: Jegan Balaji, Charle

Plot: Lineman

Based on a true story, Lineman follows Senthil (Jegan Balaji), a young engineer from Kambikattu village in Tamil Nadu. Struggling against poverty, patriarchy, and corruption, Senthil invents an auto-sun switch to save lives from electrocution caused by illegal electricity theft. However, his efforts to implement the device face fierce opposition from a powerful salt pan owner, Thalamuthan, and his allies.

Highlights: Lineman

❤️ The film shines a light on rural issues like electricity theft, unsafe working conditions, and the struggle for innovation in underprivileged areas.
❤️ Charle delivers a heartfelt performance as Subbiah, a determined lineman fighting against corruption.
❌ The movie struggles to create a strong emotional connection with Senthil’s journey.
❌ Key social issues, like the plight of salt pan workers and domestic violence, are touched upon but not explored deeply.

Though Lineman tackles important themes, its lack of depth and emotional resonance keeps it from becoming a compelling rural drama. If you’re interested in socially relevant stories, this one may be worth a watch for its intentions, but don’t expect a gripping narrative. Now streaming on Amazon Prime!

Laggam: A Fun Wedding Drama

Platform: Aha
Director: Ramesh Cheppala
Cast: Sai Ronak, Pragya Nagra, Rajendra Prasad

Plot: Laggam

Set in a lively Telangana village, Laggam follows the story of Sadanandam (Rajendra Prasad) and his daughter Manasa (Pragya Nagra). When Sadanandam decides to marry Manasa to her cousin Chaitanya (Sai Ronak), a software engineer, their plans are disrupted when Chaitanya loses his job. What follows is a mix of humor, emotions, and societal commentary as the family navigates job insecurities, traditional expectations, and the chaos of a wedding.

Highlights: Laggam

❤️ Sai Ronak delivers a relatable performance, balancing rural traditions with urban sensibilities.
❤️ Rajendra Prasad’s emotional portrayal adds depth, especially in the second half.
❤️ Mani Sharma’s music captures the essence of the village and wedding festivities beautifully.
❌ The story is predictable but compensated by strong performances and engaging moments.

With its blend of comedy, melodrama, and a preachy look at societal pressures, Laggam is an average entertainer for audiences seeking feel good rom-com. Now streaming on Aha!

Read Sookshmadrshini Malayalam Movie Review Here.

Which are the OTT releases this week? With so many releases across platforms, here are 3 picks that I think are worth checking out. Kishkindha Kandam, Adithattu and Freedom at Midnight are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Kishkindha Kandam: A Mystery That Will Keep You Guessing

Platform: Jio Star
Director: Dinjith Ayyathan
Cast: Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, Vijayaraghavan, Jagadish, Kottayam Ramesh

Plot Synopsis: Kishkindha Kandam

Kishkindha Kandam follows a retired army officer in his 70s, Appu Pillai (Vijayaraghavan), and his son Ajayan (Asif Ali), a forest officer, as they search for their missing licensed gun.

But things get more mysterious as Ajayan struggles with the disappearance of his first child, who has been gone for years.

Highlights: Kishkindha Kandam

❤️ The film’s slow pace & writing perfectly suits the suspense, building up an unforgettable ending.
❤️ Vijayaraghavan gives a top-class performance, brilliantly portraying his character’s struggles with age and hidden secrets.
❌ The movie’s slow build-up might not appeal to everyone but pays off if you stick with it.

Kishkindha Kandam easily stands as one of Malayalam cinema’s best mystery dramas after Drishyam. If you enjoy movies with depth and mystery, catch it on Jio Star from November 19.

Freedom at Midnight: A Journey Through India’s Partition

Platform: SonyLIV
Director: Nikkhil Advani
Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arif Zakaria, Sidhant Gupta, Rajendra Chawla

Plot: Freedom at Midnight

Freedom at Midnight is a historical drama set during the critical period of India’s independence and partition. The series follows pivotal figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Muhammad Ali Jinnah as they navigate political tensions and personal sacrifices to shape the destiny of two nations. With scenes that explore the human cost of partition, the series dives deep into the challenges and decisions that defined a generation.

Highlights: Freedom at Midnight

❤️ Kareena Kapoor Khan delivers one of her career-best performances as a grief-stricken officer, bringing depth and emotion to the story.
❤️ Arif Zakaria shines as Jinnah, capturing his intensity and struggles with conviction.
❤️ A balanced narrative that captures the complexities of the leaders’ decisions without taking sides.
❌ The series condenses a lot of historical details, which may feel oversimplified at times.

With its powerful performances and engaging storytelling, Freedom at Midnight is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and those intrigued by the partition era. Now streaming on SonyLIV!

Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale – A Glimpse into the Superstar’s Life

Platform: Netflix
Genre: Documentary
Release Date: November 18

This docu-series offers an intimate look at Nayanthara, one of South India’s most iconic stars. Known for her private nature, Nayanthara opens up about her journey, balancing her career with her roles as a daughter, sister, wife, and mother. Featuring interviews with close friends, family, and colleagues like Rana Daggubati and Taapsee Pannu, the series gets deep into her world, revealing the woman behind the so called lady superstar.

Deadpool & Wolverine: Marvel’s Wildest Pairing Yet

Platform: Jio Star
Director: Shawn Levy
Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman & Emma Corrin

Plot: Deadpool & Wolverine

In Deadpool & Wolverine, the Time Variance Authority (TVA) recruits Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) to protect the multiverse. Along the way, Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) returns from the dead to join him in a chaotic mission to save their universe. With sharp humor, relentless action, and a plot that spans multiple timelines, the movie explores the uneasy yet hilarious partnership between the sarcastic “Merc with a Mouth” and the brooding Wolverine.

Highlights: Deadpool & Wolverine

❤️ Slick and visually impressive fight sequences that fans will want to rewatch.
❤️ Packed with fourth-wall-breaking humor and surprise cameos that hit the right notes.
❌ The plot feels thin at times, relying heavily on jokes and action to carry the story.
❌ Repetitive humor may not work for everyone, losing charm as the movie progresses.

If you’re a Marvel fan, Deadpool & Wolverine is a fun ride full of laughs and surprises. Stream it now on Jio Star!

Adithattu: A Slow-Burning Thriller

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: Jijo Antony
Cast: Shine Tom Chacko, Sunny Wayne, Alexandar Prashanth

https://youtu.be/XF85ZV0Z11U

Plot: Adithattu

Set against the backdrop of the sea, Adithattu revolves around a fishing crew led by Ambrose (Shine Tom Chacko). Short-handed after the supposed suicide of their leader, the crew brings Marcos (Sunny Wayne), a troublemaker, on board. Tensions rise as hidden agendas and unresolved conflicts come to light during the fishing expedition, leading to a gripping and violent confrontation.

Highlights: Adithattu

❤️ Adithattu stands out with its raw storytelling and visually stunning cinematography.
❤️ Shine Tom Chacko delivers an intense performance, perfectly embodying the ruggedness of a fisherman.
❤️ The film’s 94-minute runtime focuses on character detailing, offering an immersive experience.
❌ The slow pace and minimalistic story might not appeal to everyone.
❌ The violent sequences and frequent cuss words earn the film its ‘A’ certification.

If you enjoy moody, character-driven thrillers that don’t spoon-feed their narrative, Adithattu is a must-watch. Now streaming on Amazon Prime!

Martin: Killing Spree With No Substance

Platform: Zee5
Director: AP Arjun
Cast: Dhruva Sarja, Vaibhavi Shandilya, Anveshi Jain

Plot: Martin

Martin follows Arjun (Dhruva Sarja), an aggressive man captured in Pakistan who struggles with memory loss. As he tries to escape and uncover his identity, he learns about Martin, a shadowy figure connected to his past. Their intertwined fates lead to high-octane action sequences, hidden agendas, and a chaotic search for answers.

Highlights: Martin

❤️ Martin shines in its ambition, delivering some thrilling action set pieces.
❤️ Dhruva Sarja showcases intensity and versatility, excelling in the film’s action sequences.
❌ Weak character development and predictable twists undermine the narrative.
❌ Continuity errors, chaotic plotting, and lackluster dialogue detract from the experience.

If you finished all other movies and web series and still you have time, try Martin at Zee5.

Read more Reviews and Suggestions here.

What are the OTT releases, this week? With so many releases across platforms, here are 3 picks that I think are worth checking out. The Buckingham Murders, Vettaiyan and ARM are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Devara- Grand Visuals, Bland Emotions

Platform: Netflix
Director: Koratala Siva
Cast: NTR, Saif Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Prakash Raj

Plot Synopsis: Devara

He faces challenges and hidden conflicts, especially with his ally Bhaira (Saif Ali Khan). Their differences cause tension among the clans. As Devara’s story unfolds, his son Vara (also NTR) and his love interest Thangam (Janhvi Kapoor) get involved in the family feud. The film ends on a big cliffhanger, similar to Baahubali.

Highlights: Devara

❤️ NTR shines in his dual role as Devara and Vara, bringing depth to complex characters.
❤️ Stunning cinematography and Anirudh Ravichander’s music elevate the film, adding a unique coastal atmosphere.
❌ The story is stretched, with an underwhelming romance subplot and a slower second half.
❌ Cliched and exaggerated events lack depth, and Janhvi Kapoor’s role feels underdeveloped.

Devara: Part 1 has its share of thrilling moments, but its stretched narrative holds it back from being entirely satisfying. Watch it on Netflix if you enjoy epic visuals and intense Telugu action drama.

Vettaiyan: A Powerful Message From A Weak Script

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: TJ Gnanavel
Cast: Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Dushara Vijayan, Ritika Singh

Plot Synopsis: Vettaiyan

Vettaiyan tackles the issue of fake encounter killings through the story of SP Athiyan (Rajinikanth), a tough cop. Guided by retired Judge Sathyadev (Amitabh Bachchan), Athiyan is on a mission to fix the system and get justice for Saranya (Dushara Vijayan), a young teacher who faced injustice.

Through Athiyan’s journey, the film explores the impact of quick justice and the real consequences of police power.

Highlights: Vettaiyan

❤️ Rajinikanth delivers a Superstar performance as a flawed hero, with Amitabh Bachchan adding depth to the narrative.
❤️ Fahadh Faasil as ‘Battery’ Patrick, adding a touch of humour and charm to the intense drama.
❌ The storyline leans on predictable twists, and some plot details, like Saranya’s tragic fate, feel unnecessarily overplayed.
❌ Despite its good intentions, the film struggles to balance Rajinikanth’s hero moments with a nuanced stand against encounters.

Vettaiyan blends Rajinikanth’s larger-than-life appeal with a message against fake encounters, making it a bold entry in Tamil cinema. For action and social commentary fans, it’s streaming now on Amazon Prime Video!

Janaka Aithe Ganaka: A Courtroom Comedy with Missed Opportunities

Platform: Aha
Director: Sandeep Reddy Bandla
Cast: Suhas, Goparaju Ramana, Sangeerthana Vipin, Murli Sharma, Vennela Kishore

Plot Synopsis: Janaka Aithe Ganaka

Janaka Aithe Ganaka centers on Prasad (Suhas), a middle-class salesman who decides with his wife to avoid parenthood due to financial worries. However, when they face unforeseen consequences, Prasad takes a surprising step by filing a legal case against a condom company, leading to chaotic courtroom drama.

Through his court battles, the film touches on themes like the challenges of raising a child, societal stigma, and financial struggles, all wrapped in humor that sometimes hits and misses.

Highlights: Janaka Aithe Ganaka

❤️ Suhas brings his genuine middle-class charm to the screen, capturing relatable emotions.
❤️ Vennela Kishore’s comedy manages to lighten up some heavy scenes, bringing some much-needed laughs.
❌ The film struggles to maintain focus, shifting between social issues without a clear direction.
❌ Courtroom scenes lack punch, with jokes and twists that feel forced and disconnected.

Janaka Aithe Ganaka has potential with its social themes but ultimately falls short, missing the impact a sharp comedy-drama can deliver. Streaming now on Aha if you’re up for a light-hearted but uneven ride!

The Buckingham Murders: Kareena Kapoor at Her Best

Platform: Netflix
Director: Hansal Mehta
Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranveer Brar, Ash Tandon, Prabhleen Sandhu

Plot Synopsis: The Buckingham Murders

In The Buckingham Murders, Kareena Kapoor Khan stars as Jaspreet “Jass” Bhamra, a police officer grieving a personal tragedy. Seeking escape, she moves to England, hoping for peace, but instead finds herself drawn into the case of a missing teenager in a multicultural community. As she investigates, Jass battles her own inner conflicts while piecing together the complex mystery surrounding the crime.

Highlights: The Buckingham Murders

❤️ Kareena Kapoor Khan delivers a gripping performance, portraying both strength and vulnerability with ease.
❤️ The film thoughtfully weaves social themes into the suspense, making it more than just a whodunit.
❌ The storyline tries to cover many social issues, which might feel like too much for some viewers.
❌ The pacing may feel slow to those expecting a high-intensity thriller.

The Buckingham Murders combines mystery with meaningful commentary, making it a must-watch for fans of suspense with substance. Catch it now on Netflix for a thought-provoking experience.

Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM): A Visual Treat

Platform: Hotstar
Director: Jithin Laal
Cast: Tovino Thomas, Krithi Shetty, Surabhi Lakshmi, Basil Joseph

Plot Synopsis: Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM)

ARM follows the story of Ajayan (Tovino Thomas) and his two ancestors, Kunjikelu and Maniyan, all played by Tovino across three timelines. While Kunjikelu was a warrior, Maniyan is remembered as a thief, leaving Ajayan in the present to face the consequences of his family’s legacy.

Ajayan’s love interest blends real-life struggles with magical realism, bringing a unique mix of period thrillers and fantasy.

Highlights: Ajayante Randam Moshanam

❤️ Tovino Thomas shines in a triple role, bringing life and nuance to each character across timelines.
❤️ The stunning visuals and VFX work well within the film’s budget, especially in the rich folklore scenes.
❌ While the story starts strong, the middle feels predictable, with some themes losing impact due to over-explanation.
❌ Secondary characters, except for Surabhi Lakshmi, feel underdeveloped, which could have added depth.

Ajayante Randam Moshanam is a visual spectacle that balances history and fantasy, elevated by Tovino’s performance. If you enjoy folklore-inspired dramas with a touch of magic, this one’s worth the watch on Hotstar.

Citadel: Honey Bunny – Slick Action But Not A Sleek Script

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: Raj & DK
Cast: Varun Dhawan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Kay Kay Menon, Shivankit Singh Parihar

Plot Synopsis: Citadel: Honey Bunny

Set across two timelines in 1992 and 2000, Citadel: Honey Bunny is a spinoff of the Russo Brothers’ Citadel. The story is about the lives of Rahi Gambhir aka Bunny (Varun Dhawan), a Bollywood stuntman moonlighting as a secret agent, and Hanimandakini aka Honey (Samantha Ruth Prabhu), a struggling actress turned agent. In 2000, as Honey flees from mysterious assassins, Bunny attempts to rescue her, leading to the origin story of Citadel.

Highlights: Honey Bunny

❤️ The action sequences are top-notch, with visually impressive, slick choreography that keeps you engaged.
❤️ Samantha Ruth Prabhu shines in her role, bringing strength and believability to her character, Honey.
❌ The plot is predictable, with twists that fall short, lacking the complexity fans expect from Raj & DK’s work.
❌ Despite great efforts, the overall story feels thin and repetitive, struggling to stay engaging.

While Honey Bunny is good with thrilling action and star-studded visuals, it misses the mark on story depth. If you’re in for the action, it’s worth a watch, but don’t expect too many surprises along the way. Available now on Amazon Prime.

Other OTT Releases

Telisinavaallu: A Quirky Thriller-Mystery

Platform: ETV Win
Director: Viplove Koneti
Cast: Ram Karthick, Hebah Patel, Naresh, Pavitra Lokesh, Jaya Prakash

Telisinavaallu is a half baked mix of family drama, romance, thriller, and mystery. Ram Karthick stars as the protagonist, with Hebah Patel in a fresh, never-seen-before role. Share your comments if you have watched this.

Are you keen on catching the latest OTT releases this week? From thrilling spy genres to unconventional superhero movies, the list is exciting.

Por Thozhil: An Intelligent Twist to Investigative Thrillers

OTT Platform: SonyLiv
Directed by: Vignesh Raja
Cast: Sarath Kumar, Ashok Selvan, Nikhila Vimal

Plot Synopsis:
Por Thozhil follows seasoned police officer Lokanathan and young recruit Prakash as they join forces to nab a serial killer. A tale of intelligence and cooperation, the film transcends the typical buddy cop formula to delve into a more sophisticated story of action and intrigue.

Highlights:
Smart writing sets Por Thozhil apart from other investigative thrillers. The unlikely pairing of Sarath Kumar’s veteran wisdom and Ashok Selvan’s youthful ingenuity brings freshness to the genre.

Though the film draws inspiration from classics like Stray Dog and Lethal Weapon, it finds a unique spot with its combination of suspense, action, and intelligence.

Read a detailed review here.

The Jengaburu Curse: Noble Intentions Overshadowed by Overwhelming Drama

OTT Platform: Sonyliv
Directed by: Nila Madhab Panda
Cast: Faria Abdullah, Nasser, Makarand Deshpande, Sudev Nair, Deipak Sampat, and Hitesh Dave

Plot Synopsis:
Far removed from her Adivasi origins in London, Priya Das (Faria Abdullah) is thrust into the mysteries of her past when her activist father, Swatantra, disappears. The backdrop is Jengaburu, an ancestral village now under the iron grip of a mining company led by the unscrupulous Srinivas.

Local legends warn of a dragon king sleeping beneath the village, a creature that mustn’t be stirred. Yet, with each explosion and machine rumble, an ancient curse seems poised to awaken.

Highlights:
The Jengaburu Curse commendable foregrounds the Adivasi narrative and the contentious realm of Indian mining, an effort far more nuanced than similar takes like Aar Ya Paar (2022).

The series boasts an ensemble cast that shines in their roles, with Faria Abdullah’s portrayal of Priya being particularly spirited.

While the series is based on a compelling premise, it often finds itself ensnared by the trappings of its thriller genre.

Over-dramatization, convenient plot developments, and drawn-out scenes at times detract from the core message.

Made in Heaven: Season 2 – A Rich Tapestry of Indian Weddings and Social Realities

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Neeraj Ghaywan, Alankrita Shrivastava, and Nitya Mehra
Cast: Sobhita Dhulipala, Arjun Mathur, Jim Sarbh, Kalki Koechlin, Vijay Raaz, among others.

Plot Synopsis:

Season 2 of Made in Heaven witnesses the return of Tara Khanna and Karan Mehra, our favourite wedding planners from Delhi. Diving deep into the opulent world of Indian weddings, the season unravels not just the grandeur of these ceremonies, but the undercurrents of societal norms, personal aspirations, and familial expectations. Picking up from where it left off, Tara’s personal life is in turmoil while Karan grapples with his sexuality.

Highlights:
This season magnifies its focus on complex issues, with episodes like Neeraj Ghaywan’s Dalit wedding narrative, featuring a formidable Radhika Apte, standing out.

Secondary characters add depth, notably Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju’s resonating storyline. However, amidst the multitude of narratives, Sobhita Dhulipala’s Tara feels slightly subdued.

Overall, Made in Heaven: Season 2 offers a layered exploration of contemporary Indian society, intertwining the allure of weddings with hard-hitting social commentaries.

Neymar: A Lighthearted Bond with Man’s Best Friend

OTT Platform: Hotstar
Directed by: Sudhi Maddison
Cast: Mathew Thomas, Naslen K Gafoor, Shammi Thilakan, Yog Japee

Plot Synopsis:
In Neymar, the directorial debut of Sudhi Maddison, the bond of friendship intertwines with the love for a dog, leading to a series of unforeseen adventures. Centered around Aakamsh and Shinto, staunch supporters of the Brazil football team and admirers of its star player Neymar, the story takes a twist when an indie dog, named Neymar, enters their lives. From dreaming about aviation careers to a whirlwind quest in Pondicherry to retrieve Neymar from a formidable new owner, the film serves an intriguing cocktail of comedy and chaos.

Highlights:
While the narrative takes a relaxed pace in its Kothamangalam setting, the momentum magnifies when the backdrop shifts to Pondicherry.

The camaraderie between Mathew and Naslen is palpable, though their established chemistry sometimes feels repetitive. Yet, it’s the veterans like Vijayaraghavan, manifesting as the vibrant Chackola, who leave an indelible mark.

Despite its predictability, the film scores with its heartwarming moments, especially those involving the titular dog.
For those seeking light-hearted entertainment, Neymar is a delightful pick.

Maaveeran: The Voice Within – An Audacious Superhero Story

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: Madonne Ashwin
Cast: Sivakarthikeyan, Yogi Babu, Mysskin, Sunil, Saritha, Adithi Shankar

Plot Synopsis:
In the bustling streets of Tamil Nadu, Sathya, a humble comic-book artist, sketches tales of valor. His life, shadowed by poverty and the need to protect his family, takes a radical shift when a mysterious voice (akin to the ‘Maveeran’ from his comics) begins forecasting imminent events. This auditory guide, coupled with socio-political upheavals, thrusts him into an extraordinary journey. As structures crumble and systems fail, Sathya grapples with his newfound ‘precognition’ power, while also confronting his own inhibitions.

Highlights:
Maaveeran brilliantly juxtaposes a superhero narrative with underlying political tones.

Sivakarthikeyan‘s rapport with comedic genius Yogi Babu enlivens the film, adding layers of humour amidst intense sequences.

Noteworthy is the film’s audacity to challenge and subvert traditional superhero tropes while still catering to the commercial palette.

The dynamics between supporting characters, notably Sunil and Mysskin, are intricately woven, ensuring every subplot gets its deserving closure.

Padmini: A Humorous Dive into Societal Scrutiny

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Senna Hegde
Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Aparna Balamurali, Madonna Sebastian, Vincy Aloshious.

Plot Synopsis:
Amidst the buzzing chatter and societal judgements, Rameshan’s life takes an unexpected turn when his wife, Smrithi, elopes on their wedding day. Left to face the brunt of the village’s ridicule, Rameshan, a poet and lecturer, embarks on a comedic journey to find love once again. Amidst the chaos, parallel narratives unfold, touching upon modern relationships, societal norms, and the quirks that bind us all together.

Highlights:
Hegde’s signature style of highlighting societal intricacies remains intact.

Kunchacko Boban excels as the heartbroken Rameshan, whose endeavours in love, interspersed with comedic interactions with his brother-in-law (portrayed by Anand Manmadhan), form the essence of the film.

A standout subplot showcases advocate Sreedevi’s (Aparna Balamurali) turbulent relationship with her over-protective fiance Jayan (Sajin Cherukayil). The inclusion of fictional brand advertisements, reminiscent of Tarantino-esque style, adds a quirky flavour.

Other Exclusive OTT Releases This Week

Vaan Moondru

OTT: Aha
Director: Amr Murugesh
Writer: Amr Murugesh
Stars: Ammu Abhirami, Aditya Badekar, Delhi Ganesh

Plot Synopsis:
A timeless romantic narrative that intricately binds six individuals, Vaan Moondru beautifully transcends societal norms surrounding age and relationships. This poignant tale of love paints a vivid picture of evolving relationships and emotions.

Hidimbha

OTT: Aha
Director: Aneel Kanneganti
Stars: Ashwin Babu, Nandita Swetha

Plot Synopsis:
Set in the heart of Hyderabad, “Hidimbha” unravels a chilling medical mystery. As two diligent police officers embark on an inquiry into a peculiar case, the city witnesses a series of disappearances. Strikingly, all victims are young girls, bound by one intriguing similarity. As the plot thickens, truths emerge, and a sinister game begins.

The Killing Vote

OTT: Amazon Prime
Director: Park Shin-Woo
Writer: Eom Se-Yoon
Stars: Park Hae Jin, Park Sung Woong, Lim Ji Yeon

Plot Synopsis:
In an unsettling world where justice is questionable, “The Killing Vote” dives deep into the unsettling game of death penalty voting. Every adult citizen is polled. If majority votes favor the death sentence, the mysterious Gae Tal (Dog’s Tail) exacts lethal justice on offenders who exploit the system’s flaws. As the narrative unfolds, moral dilemmas arise, questioning societal norms and individual agency.

Heart Of Stone

OTT: Netflix
Stars: Alia Bhatt, Gal Gadot

Plot Synopsis:
Join the espionage world with “Heart of Stone.” Gal Gadot, celebrated globally for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, takes center stage in this thrilling spy drama. Taking cues from franchises like “Mission: Impossible” and “James Bond,” Netflix ventures into the realm of spy thrillers, positioning Gadot in a pioneering role. As intrigue, action, and suspense merge, “Heart of Stone” is poised to establish its niche in the spy genre.

For more reviews and suggestion click here.