BY CHRISTA LINCY

In a significant move aimed at safeguarding the theatrical business, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce has officially proposed a mandatory 8-week OTT release window for all Telugu films. The proposal was discussed during a high-level Executive Committee (EC) meeting held recently, where members expressed growing concern over the dwindling theatrical run of films due to early digital premieres. This rule, if implemented, would mean that no Telugu film can stream on any OTT platform until at least 56 days after its initial theatrical release, a move that trade experts believe is essential to bring audiences back to cinema halls. The primary motivation behind this proposal is to combat the wait-for-OTT mindset that has significantly impacted the box office performance of mid-range and small-budget films. Currently, while most big-ticket Indian films aim for a longer window, many Telugu releases have been arriving on digital platforms within just 3 to 6 weeks of their release. Exhibitors and distributors argue that this short gap kills the long-term prospects of a movie, as viewers often choose to skip the theatre knowing the film will be available on their mobile screens in less than a month. Standardizing the 8-week rule is seen as a way to ensure that the theatrical experience remains the primary source of revenue for the industry. While the proposal has been cleared by the Film Chamber's Executive Committee, it is not yet a binding regulation. The next crucial step involves detailed consultations with the Telugu Film Producers Council and the Telugu Film Producers Guild. These bodies represent the production houses that often rely on lucrative early-window deals from streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar to recover their investments quickly. Reaching a consensus between the exhibitors' need for a long run and the producers' need for immediate liquidity will be the deciding factor in whether this rule becomes a permanent industry standard. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The Film Chamber pointed towards the massive success of recent global blockbusters as a precedent for this rule. In the post-pandemic era, only a few films, most notably Prabhas's Kalki 2898 AD and Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2: The Rule, have strictly adhered to the full 8-week window across all languages. The sustained box office collections of these films over several weeks have proven to the trade that a delayed digital release can significantly boost a film's total theatrical earnings. By implementing this rule across the board, the Chamber hopes to replicate this long-tail success for a wider variety of films. However, the mandatory window poses a unique challenge for small and medium-budget films. For many smaller producers, the revenue generated from selling digital rights for a 3-week window is often higher than what they might earn from a prolonged theatrical run. If the 8-week rule becomes mandatory, OTT platforms may reduce their acquisition prices, potentially affecting the financial viability of smaller projects. As the Producers Council and the Guild prepare to meet, the industry is waiting to see if a middle ground can be reached to protect both the theatre owners and the independent producers.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Los Angeles, February 26 - The highly anticipated Malayalam crime suspense thriller Drishyam 3, starring Mohanlal and directed by Jeethu Joseph, has secured a massive theatrical deal in overseas markets. Even before its theatrical debut, the film has generated strong traction among international distributors, reaffirming the enduring global appeal of the Drishyam franchise. According to trade reports, the North American theatrical rights of Drishyam 3 have been sold for a huge 10 crore, making it the biggest for a Malayalam film in the market. The USA rights are valued at around 6 crore, while the Canada rights have fetched approximately 4 crore, highlighting the robust demand for the film across key diaspora-driven territories. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The distribution responsibilities in North America have been clearly divided, with Prathyangira Cinemas acquiring the USA theatrical rights and Hamsini Entertainments taking charge of the Canadian release. Both distributors are known for handling major South Indian releases overseas, ensuring a wide and strategic theatrical rollout for the film. The strong North America deal reflects the massive recall value of the Drishyam brand, which has enjoyed success across languages and markets over the years. With expectations already running high, Drishyam 3 is shaping up as one of the most significant Malayalam releases internationally, setting the stage for a potentially strong overseas box office performance upon its release on April 2nd. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

While the back-to-back release of three tentpole films usually sparks concerns regarding screen sharing and box office cannibalization, director Harish Shankar maintains an optimistic outlook. Speaking exclusively to Variety, Shankar emphasized that he views this period as a celebration of cinema rather than a cutthroat race. He drew parallels to the festive Pongal/Sankranti season, where multiple big-budget films often thrive simultaneously, stating that the industry should move past viewing fellow filmmakers as rivals. One of the primary reasons the Ustaad Bhagat Singh team remains confident is the distinct nature of the film compared to its predecessors. Harish Shankar noted that based on the content released so far, Toxic and Dhurandhar 2 belong to entirely different genres. While Toxic is a period gangster saga and Dhurandhar 2 is a high-octane spy thriller, Ustaad Bhagat Singh is expected to be a massy commercial entertainer. Shankar told Variety that their audience base is unique, ensuring that there is enough room for all three films to find their footing. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Beyond the numbers, the filmmaker highlighted a broader shift in the industry's mindset. He asserted that the era of language barriers is over and that every film should be viewed through the lens of Indian Cinema. Even though Ustaad Bhagat Singh may not be positioned as a primary pan-India project like Toxic, Shankar expressed his deep respect for all filmmakers across the country, wishing success to every major release in that window. The excitement surrounding Ustaad Bhagat Singh is largely driven by the reunion of Pawan Kalyan and Harish Shankar. The duo previously collaborated on the blockbuster Gabbar Singh, which remains an industry hit and a fan favorite. This upcoming project marks their return after over a decade, promising to showcase the Power Star in a magnetic, high-energy persona that fans have been eagerly waiting for. Set to hit the big screens on March 26, 2026, Ustaad Bhagat Singh features a stellar supporting cast including Sreeleela, Raashii Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, Nawab Shah, B.S. Avinash, Gautami, and Chammak Chandra. With the film arriving exactly one week after the March 19 releases, the industry is bracing for a historic two-week run that could potentially break multiple box office records.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Los Angeles, February 26 - Director Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana reportedly had its first internal test screening at the Cinemark Playa Vista theatre in Los Angeles, nearly nine months ahead of its planned theatrical release. According to multiple media reports, the screening was held for a select, invite-only audience aged 18-60, marking the first time a rough cut of the film was showcased outside the core creative team. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Early feedback emerging from the screening has been largely positive, with strong praise directed at the film's visual scale, VFX quality, and rooted storytelling. Reports suggest that despite being an unfinished cut, the film impressed viewers with its ambition and emotional treatment of the epic. The makers are said to be using these reactions primarily to assess technical finesse and tonal consistency, rather than to implement any major narrative changes. It is important to note that this was not a public test screening, and the film is still undergoing extensive post-production, particularly on VFX-heavy sequences. The makers are reportedly in no hurry to release promotional material and are prioritising refinement over timelines. An official teaser or announcement is expected only after the team is fully satisfied with the final output, as expectations surrounding Ramayana continue to soar. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by Prime Focus Studio with Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Ravana, and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, among many others. Adding to the global scale of the project is the collaboration between music maestros A. R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, who have joined hands to compose the score. The historical epic will be released in two parts, with first part scheduled to release on Diwali this year, followed by the second part on Diwali 2027. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Rocking Star Yash is all set to redefine the cinematic experience with his next ambitious project, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. In a massive update for cinema enthusiasts and trade analysts alike, the film has been officially confirmed for an IMAX release. This news ensures that the period gangster saga will be a visual powerhouse, designed to be witnessed on the largest screens possible. The confirmation came through IMAX's official investor presentation release slate, which listed Toxic as a key part of its upcoming global rollout, signaling a massive premium-format push across India and international markets. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Geetu Mohandas, Toxic is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026. The makers have strategically locked in this date to capitalize on a massive four-day holiday weekend, coinciding with major festivals like Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr. This timing, combined with the IMAX branding, is expected to provide the film with a record-shattering start at the box office, particularly in metropolitan centers where premium formats dominate collections. The film boasts one of the most elite ensemble casts in recent Indian cinema, reflecting its pan-India appeal. Yash will lead the charge, reportedly playing a dual-layered role that involves characters named Raya and Ticket. Joining him on screen are some of the biggest names in the industry, including Kiara Advani and Nayanthara in pivotal roles. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi, and Sudev Nair, making it one of the most star-studded productions currently under development. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Set against the backdrop of Goa between the 1940s and 1970s, Toxic is described as a fairy tale for grown-ups that explores the gritty rise of a criminal empire. The narrative follows the transition from the colonial era to the emergence of local crime syndicates, delving into deep themes of power and betrayal. To bring this vision to life, the production is mounted on a reported staggering budget of approximately ₹600 crore. The technical team includes Ravi Basrur for music, Rajeev Ravi for cinematography, and Hollywood action director JJ Perry, known for his work on John Wick, who will choreograph the film's high-octane sequences. On the business front, Toxic is already creating history with its distribution deals. The theatrical rights for the Telugu states (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) have reportedly been acquired by Dil Raju's Sri Venkateswara Creations for a record ₹120 crore. Meanwhile, Anil Thadani's AA Films will handle the distribution in North India and Nepal, while Phars Film has secured the overseas rights for nearly ₹105 crore. These record-breaking numbers reflect the massive trade confidence in Yash following the global success of the KGF franchise. As the industry looks ahead to March 2026, Toxic is currently positioned for a historic box office showdown. The film is expected to clash with other major release, that includes Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar 2. However, with its IMAX confirmation and the Rocking Star factor, Toxic remains one of the most formidable contenders for the top spot.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Mumbai, February 25 - Amid widespread speculation on social media claiming that the teaser of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond has been removed following court intervention, the makers have issued an official statement putting an end to the rumours. The production house has categorically denied all reports suggesting that the teaser or any promotional material has been taken down. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) In a statement released by Sunshine Pictures, the makers clarified that the news currently circulating about the removal of the teaser is "completely false, baseless, and misleading." They emphasised that no such action has been taken by the team and that the claims doing the rounds have no factual backing. The producers further stated that the matter concerning the film is presently sub judice. However, they stressed that no judgment or order has been passed by any court directing the removal of any content related to the film. "We have not deleted or taken down any material," the statement added, making their position unequivocally clear. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) pic.twitter.com/WLEpaxdl3C— Kamakhya Narayan Singh (@kamakhyanarayan) February 24, 2026 Reassuring audiences and media alike, the makers confirmed that both the teaser and the trailer of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond continue to remain available across all official platforms, contrary to viral claims suggesting otherwise. The statement also urged media houses, digital platforms, and individuals to refrain from spreading unverified information and speculative reports, noting that such misinformation only leads to unnecessary confusion. With this clarification, the makers have firmly dismissed all rumours surrounding the alleged removal of the teaser. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and starring Ulka Gupta, Aditi Bhatia, and Aishwarya Ojha, the film expands the narrative of its predecessor and follows the lives of several young women across different Indian states. The story explores themes related to personal relationships, alleged religious conversion, and societal pressures. It is scheduled to be released on February 27. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK TEAM

Ranveer Singh's high-octane actioner, Dhurandhar, has set a massive new benchmark in the digital space, emerging as a historic success on OTT. According to the latest viewership data, the film has officially become the most-viewed Indian film on Netflix for titles released from 2024 onwards (excluding direct-to-digital releases). By the end of its 4th week, the film has amassed a staggering 20.7 Million views, outperforming some of the biggest theatrical blockbusters of the year in terms of digital reach and sustained engagement. The film's performance on the global streaming giant has been nothing short of extraordinary, maintaining a dominant position in the Global Top 10 (Non-English) category for four consecutive weeks. Reaching the 20.7 million mark by the end of its fourth weekend is a rare feat for post-theatrical releases, highlighting the film's immense long-tail appeal. Unlike many big-ticket films that see a sharp decline in viewership after the initial fortnight, Dhurandhar has continued to draw in new audiences, driven by Ranveer Singh’s international star power and the film’s high production values. In achieving this milestone, Dhurandhar has successfully bypassed the viewership records of several major 2024 hits. It has comfortably moved ahead of the heist-comedy Crew, which stood at 17.9 million views, and the Dulquer Salmaan starrer Lucky Baskhar, which recorded 16.9 million views. Furthermore, it has surpassed the critically acclaimed Maharaja (15.5M) and the horror-thriller Shaitaan (14.8M). The nearly 3-million-view lead over its closest competitor, Crew, solidifies Dhurandhar as the undisputed leader of the 2024 digital leaderboard for theatrical films on Netflix. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The staggering 20.7 million views reflect a widespread global footprint, with the film performing exceptionally well across India as well as in key international territories like the UAE, USA, and Canada. Netflix calculates these views by dividing the total hours watched by the film's runtime, indicating that audiences are not just clicking on the title but are staying engaged throughout the duration. This high retention rate is a testament to the film's gripping narrative and its ability to translate theatrical momentum into a digital blockbuster status. As Dhurandhar continues its successful run into the fifth week, it remains the gold standard for how big-budget Indian action films can find a massive second life on streaming platforms. For Ranveer Singh and the makers, these numbers represent a major victory, proving that the film's mass appeal has resonated deeply with the OTT audience. With no immediate signs of slowing down, Dhurandhar has firmly established itself as the biggest Indian streaming hit of the year so far.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, February 25 - Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming period romantic action drama Love and War has been making waves for its sheer scale and ambitious vision. Featuring a powerhouse trio of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, the film is being positioned as one of the most anticipated Bollywood projects, with expectations riding high among trade and audiences alike. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to Variety India, Bhansali's ambition for the film is costing many extra crores in the production as the budget of Love and War has now reportedly shot up to a staggering 425 crore, significantly higher than its originally planned 350 crore. The spike in cost is said to be a direct result of the director's uncompromising quest for perfection, which is pushing the cost much higher than anticipated. Report further reveals that the 425 crore figure does not include the remuneration of the leading cast. Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal have all reportedly opted for backend profit-sharing deals, a strategy that reduces immediate production pressure while aligning the actors' earnings with the film's eventual box office performance. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Love and War has also seen a major extension in production timeline. The film was initially expected to be wrapped within 120 shooting days, but the schedule has now been stretched by nearly 50 more days. As things stand, the shoot is expected to conclude in approximately 175 days, reflecting the film's massive scale and Bhansali's meticulous filmmaking process. With soaring costs, an extended shoot, and one of the strongest star line-ups in recent years, Love and War is shaping up to be a true high-risk, high-reward cinematic spectacle. The makers have already recovered 200 crores from the non-theatrical revenues and are confident of making big at the box office when the film hits the big screens. It will be released in 2027. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK TEAM

Acclaimed filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma (RGV) has shared a detailed and significant assessment of the upcoming film Dhurandhar 2. Taking to his social media, the director compared the Aditya Dhar directorial to an ASTEROID that has the potential to end the DINOSAUR era of filmmaking. According to Varma, the film, scheduled for release on March 19th, is not just another release but a project that could permanently alter the trajectory of the Indian film industry. The veteran director stated that Dhurandhar 2 has high chances of obliterating the pan-India south films movement by establishing a new benchmark. He highlighted that the film's ultra-realistic making and genuine character depths are designed to engage the audience's brain while delivering a raw visceral impact. Varma believes that once audiences experience this new standard, every film currently under production in the previous masala style could instantly become endangered. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   In his post, RGV issued a warning to the industry, specifically mentioning that big-budget masala projects currently in production will face an uphill task. He noted that producers betting on formulaic making might face empty theatres and career-ending losses as audience tastes convert to international standards. He further advised directors that the combination of mass + vfx + scale + gravity-defying stunts will no longer guarantee a hit, and they must reinvent themselves by studying the Dhurandhar audience. Varma also touched upon the portrayal of superstars, stating that those resting on mindless hero worship will be challenged by characters who grow to be heroes within the context of the story. He criticized the dinosaur era of filmmaking, which he described as being full of sheer volume, fake heroism, and the so-called masala treatment. He concluded his assessment with a stark analogy, stating that the goalpost has been changed and if filmmakers do not change their direction, they risk significant professional failure.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, February 25 - It has been a quiet February for Bollywood in terms of box office, as most of the films released this month have failed to make any impact and attract audiences in cinemas. Things aren't looking any better till March 19, when Dhurandhar 2 and Toxic will arrive, but something might happen in between that no one is betting on. Coming this Friday (February 27), there is the release of the controversial film The Kerala Story 2, which has been a subject of heated debate across social media platforms and in television discussions. The sequel to 2023's blockbuster film is releasing amid zero expectations, but it might spring a surprise no one is expecting, just like its predecessor. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The Kerala Story 2 has generated massive attention due to its subject matter. Unlike a typical big-ticket film, it does not rely on star power or marketing. The pre-release traction for the film is fuelled by curiosity and strong opinions on both sides, where a section of the audience views the film as an extension of a hard-hitting narrative, while others have criticised it heavily, calling it provocative and divisive. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The original film, released amid the massive controvery and zero expectations two years back, was a big blockbuster after taking the opening of eight crore plus net. Normally, sequels of successful films do well at the box office, but the same can't be said for a film like Kerala Story, whose primary audience is not the one who watches cinema on a regular basis; hence, it is hard to predict what the opening could be. Such films, however, do carry the surprise element, as we have seen with the first film. Advance buzz indicates that curiosity-driven viewers may turn up in good numbers on Day 1, despite the backlash. Trade is largely mute on The Kerala Story 2, but suggests that the film could see a decent opening in the range of five crores net or more. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The future of the film's box office, again, depends on how much the audience can connect to it. Sustaining momentum beyond the opening day will largely depend on audience feedback and word of mouth, which could swing either way sharply. Going into its release, The Kerala Story 2 stands as one of the most unpredictable box office contenders of the year, because it is that kind of film where if it works, it's a lottery, and if it doesn't, that's fine. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK TEAM

The Tamil film industry has witnessed a phenomenal success story with the release of the romantic comedy With Love. Produced on a modest budget, the film has captured the hearts of audiences, transforming into a massive commercial hit. Even as the film continues its impressive theatrical run into its 20th day, it is already gearing up for its digital premiere, which is set to bring this heartwarming story to a global audience. When and Where to Watch With Love on OTT? Even as With Love continues its successful run in cinemas, anticipation for its digital debut is growing. However, an official announcement from the makers regarding the exact OTT release date is still awaited. Now, according to a report by 123Telugu, the film is expected to start streaming from March 6, 2026. Upon its digital arrival, the film will reportedly premiere on Netflix in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada, further solidifying its status as a significant pan-South success. What is the story of With Love Directed by Madhan—who previously served as a co-director for the blockbuster hit Tourist Family—With Love is a nostalgic romantic drama that centers on the lives of Sathya (Abishan Jeevinth), a designer, and Monisha (Anaswara Rajan), a social media influencer. The narrative kicks off when the two, who were once schoolmates, unexpectedly reconnect during a blind date years after their time in school. Realizing they both carry the weight of unresolved feelings from their youth, Sathya and Monisha decide to embark on a collaborative journey to track down their respective unrequited school-time crushes. This quest for closure serves as the emotional heart of the film, taking the characters on a sentimental path where they must confront the what-ifs of their past. As they navigate this journey of resolution, they are forced to confront their current emotions for one another. What begins as a search for past crushes ultimately leads to a blossoming romance between Sathya and Monisha, offering a realistic and heartwarming look at how second chances can lead to deep, modern-day connections. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   With Love Box Office Collection The financial performance of With Love is extraordinary. By Day 20, the film has netted ₹27.7 Crore in India (Tamil: ₹25.1 Cr, Telugu: ₹2.6 Cr). With an overseas contribution of ₹3.5 Crore, the Worldwide Gross stands at ₹36 Crore. Having already earned 9 times its production cost, the film is one of the most profitable Tamil ventures of the year, with collections expected to rise further before it hits the streaming platform. With Love: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is With Love a hit or a flop? With Love is a massive Box Office Blockbuster. Produced on a small budget of ₹ 4 Crore, the film has grossed over ₹ 36 Crore worldwide(As of Day 19). It has not only recovered its costs within the first weekend but has also generated significant profits, making it one of the highest ROI (Return on Investment) films of the recent season. Where to stream With Love on OTT? The film will be available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. Subscribing viewers can watch the movie in its original Tamil version, as well as dubbed versions in Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. Who is the director of the movie With Love? The film is directed by Madhan, who has earned widespread acclaim for his nuanced and refreshing approach to the romantic comedy genre.Madhan has previously served as a co-director for the massive blockbuster hit Tourist Family. What is the OTT release date for With Love? While the makers have yet to make an official announcement, according to a report by 123Telugu, With Love is expected to start streaming on Netflix from March 6, 2026. The film is currently maintaining a steady hold at the box office as it enters its third week of release.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Rani Mukerji's powerhouse performance in Mardaani 3 continues to resonate with the audience as the film enters the final leg of its fourth week. On its 26th day (4th Tuesday), the film maintained a rock-steady hold at the box office, earning an estimated ₹ 0.25 Crore net in India. This performance is particularly impressive as it showed a 0% fluctuation compared to its 4th Monday, indicating that the film has reached a point of stability where it is drawing a consistent niche audience despite the arrival of newer titles. With this latest collection, Mardaani 3 has achieved a monumental milestone by officially becoming the highest-grossing film in the entire Mardaani franchise. The film's total India net collection now stands at ₹ 48.2 Crore, comfortably surpassing the lifetime earnings of both the original Mardaani and its 2019 sequel, Mardaani 2. This achievement solidifies the series as one of the most successful and consistent female-led action franchises in Indian cinema, with each installment showing growth in its box office potential. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The success of Mardaani 3 also marks a significant career high for Rani Mukerji. The film has now emerged as her second-highest-grossing film of all time in a leading role, trailing only behind the 2012 psychological thriller Talaash, which netted ₹ 93 Crore. By outperforming her other major hits, this film reaffirms Rani's status as a box office draw who can carry gritty, social-commentary-driven thrillers to commercial success on her own shoulders. On the global front, the film has crossed several key benchmarks. The worldwide collection of Mardaani 3 has reached ₹ 71.6 Crore, supported by a healthy contribution from international markets. While the India gross collection stands at ₹ 57.1 Crore, the overseas market has contributed a steady ₹ 14.5 Crore. The film's ability to find takers in the international circuit has played a crucial role in pushing its total earnings well beyond the ₹ 70 Crore mark globally. As the film concludes its 26th day, the focus now shifts to whether it can cross the ₹ 50 Crore net mark in the Indian market. Given its current trajectory and the steady hold on weekdays, the film is expected to continue its slow but sure crawl toward this milestone. For Yash Raj Films, Mardaani 3 stands as a major victory, proving that strong characters and compelling storytelling continue to be a winning formula at the box office.