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!