BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, November 28 - The first-week box office collection for Mastiii 4 and 120 Bahadur have turned out to be highly disappointing, with both films failing to attract audiences despite arriving on relatively clear release frames. Both films were almost non-starters and ended up with poor first-week totals. Director Milap Zaveri, who recently scored an unexpected box office hit with Deewaniyat, witnessed a major turnaround with the adult comedy, Mastiii 4, which recorded a washout first-week performance, collecting just around 13.75 crores net (approximately 16.50 crores gross) in India. The film's overseas performance was equally underwhelming, adding only an estimated 1.50 crores to its 18 crores worldwide tally. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The opening week box office performance of Masti 4 is far from the expected one for a brand-backed comedy franchise. Poor word-of-mouth and minimal traction during weekdays ensured that the film never gained momentum after its modest opening. Tere Ishk Mein Day 1 Box Office Trend: Dhanush Joins Rajinikanth In The Elite Double-Digit Opening List On the other hand, 120 Bahadur managed to score slightly better numbers but still ended its first week on a forgettable note. The Farhan Akhtar-led war drama earned approximately 15 crores net (18 crores gross) domestically, with its worldwide collection touching roughly 20 crores. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 120 Bahadur opened below Mastiii 4 but couldn't take the momentum into the weekdays after the decent opening weekend. With competition increasing from fresh releases and major titles on the horizon, the chances of any late turnaround for either film remain slim. Projections now suggest that the combined domestic total of both films is headed for under 35 crores net, marking one of the weakest twin releases with familiar faces in recent times. Both films will depend heavily on digital and satellite rights to recover their investments as their box office journey nears its end. Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, November 28 - Tamil star Dhanush's Bollywood comeback with director Anand L Rai's Tere Ishk Mein is set to turn memorable with an excellent opening at the box office. The romantic drama, also starring Kriti Sanon, is heading for 15+ crores net opening day, which will be among the top 10 biggest openings of 2025. With Tere Ishk Mein, Dhanush has unlocked a massive career milestone, becoming only the second Tamil actor, after superstar Rajinikanth, to score double-digit opening days across three major industries — Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu. Earlier in the year, the actor delivered a double-digit opening in Telugu with Kuberaa. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) This rare achievement places him in an elite club and highlights his expanding market beyond regional boundaries. He is among the very few actors to deliver double-digit starts in multiple language films, proving his worth as a Pan-India star. Rajinkanth scored a double-digit start in Hindi with 2.0, which also featured Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, while in Telugu, he unlocked the mark with Jailer and Coolie. Tere Ishq Mein's solid music, emotional storyline, and the refreshing pairing of Dhanush and Kriti Sanon contributed significantly to its big opening. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Considering that the film is a romantic drama and not a mass-heavy action entertainer, the numbers are even more commendable. Given the strong word-of-mouth and positive critical reviews, Tere Ishk Mein is now well-positioned for an excellent opening weekend. If the momentum continues, the film could turn into Dhanush's strongest all-India performer to date.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The excitement around SS Rajamouli’s magnum opus Varanasi (formerly SSMB29) has just hit a fever pitch. After the massive title reveal earlier this month, a new report is sending shockwaves through Tollywood. If the latest buzz is to be believed, we are about to witness a historic Nandamuri meets Ghattamaneni moment on the big screen! If the latest buzz in Tollywood is anything to go by, fans are in for a massive surprise. According to strong reports, Bhargava Ram—the 7-year-old younger son of 'Man of Masses' Jr NTR—has been roped in to make his grand acting debut in SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi. While official confirmation is still awaited, this development has already sparked a frenzy on social media, marking a potential crossover between two of the industry's biggest acting dynasties. Sources close to the development claim that Bhargava will be playing the childhood version of Mahesh Babu’s character (Rudhra). The casting choice reportedly didn't happen through a usual audition process. The buzz suggests that Superstar Mahesh Babu personally requested Jr NTR to let his son take up the role, feeling the young starkid had the perfect charm and resemblance for the part. While Jr NTR and Mahesh Babu share a close bond off-screen, their families have rarely crossed paths professionally. If verified, seeing the Young Tiger's son play the Superstar's younger self would be a cinematic treat for fans of both massive clans. Officially announced as Varanasi on November 15, SS Rajamouli’s magnum opus is shaping up to be a globetrotting action-adventure of unprecedented scale. The film boasts a stellar ensemble, with Mahesh Babu rumored to essay a dual role as Rudhra and Lord Ram, alongside global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas as the female lead, Mandakini, and Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran as the formidable antagonist, Kumbha. Blending mythology with sci-fi elements, the intricate plot reportedly involves time travel and a catastrophic event in ancient 512 CE Varanasi that links to the modern world of 2027. Mounted on a staggering budget of reportedly ₹1300 crore, Varanasi promises to be India’s most expensive cinematic spectacle to date. While the reports are strong and the casting news is dominating social media trends, an official confirmation from the makers or Jr NTR’s family is still awaited. Until then, fans are keeping their fingers crossed for this mega-crossover!

BY CHRISTA LINCY

In a surprising turn of events, the survival thriller Paanch Minar has made its digital premiere on Amazon Prime Video barely a week after hitting the big screen. The film, which was released in theaters on November 21, 2025, is now available for streaming as of today, marking one of the shortest theatrical windows in recent times. #RajTarun’s #PaanchMinar Streaming now on Prime video....just 7 days gap! pic.twitter.com/QCzFCEiEB7— T2BLive.COM (@T2BLive) November 28, 2025 Usually, films follow a standard 4-to-8-week window between their theatrical release and OTT premiere. However, Paanch Minar has broken this norm, landing on streaming platforms in just 7 days. According to industry insiders, the decision was likely driven by a dismal performance at the box office. Reports suggest the film struggled to attract footfall from Day 1, facing stiff competition and a lack of pre-release buzz. With shows being cancelled in several locations due to zero occupancy, the makers seemingly opted to cut their losses and trigger an early digital release to capture the home audience. Directed by Ram Kadumula, Paanch Minar features an ensemble cast led by Raj Tarun, who has been looking for a solid comeback hit.Raj Tarun plays the protagonist ‘Kittu’, alongside Rashi Singh as the female lead. The film boasts a strong lineup of seasoned performers, including Brahmaji, the versatile Ajay Ghosh, and comedy staples Srinivas Reddy and Sudarshan. This isn't the first time a film has taken the express route to OTT. In 2025, several small to mid-budget films that failed to garner traction in theaters have opted for early digital premieres (often within 2 weeks) to salvage revenue through streaming rights. Paanch Minar is the latest addition to this list. Here are some of the other notable films that opted for an early digital premiere following poor theatrical performance: 1. Double iSmart (2024) Theatrical: August 15, 2024 OTT: September 5, 2024 (Prime Video) Gap: 21 Days. This was a major shock to the industry as it involved big names like Ram Pothineni and Sanjay Dutt. 2. Mr. Bachchan (2024) Theatrical: August 15, 2024 OTT: September 12, 2024 (Netflix) Gap: 28 Days. Released alongside Double iSmart, this Ravi Teja film also crashed and arrived on Netflix under the standard 4-week mark. 3. Operation Valentine (2024) Theatrical: March 1, 2024 OTT: March 22, 2024 (Prime Video) Gap: 21 Days. The film struggled significantly at the box office, leading to this rushed release. 4. The Lady Killer (2023) Theatrical: November 3, 2023 OTT Fate: Released for free on YouTube (T-Series channel) in September 2024. Context: This is a famous industry case study. The film had such a disastrous limited theatrical run (reportedly selling less than 300 tickets on Day 1) that it couldn't secure a standard OTT deal for months, eventually landing on YouTube for free. For producers, this Express Route serves as immediate damage control, allowing them to monetize streaming rights while the marketing buzz—however faint—is still alive. But for the industry at large, Paanch Minar setting a 7-day benchmark is a worrying sign. It reinforces the audience's growing belief: Why pay for a ticket when it will be on my phone next week? As the gap between the big screen and the small screen vanishes for underperforming films, the theatrical business faces its toughest test yet. For now, Paanch Minar has found its permanent home on Prime Video—whether it finds an audience there remains to be seen.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Vijay Deverakonda is in beast mode! The Rowdy star, who is known for immersing himself completely into one character at a time, has broken his own rule. For the first time in his decade-long career, the actor is juggling two high-octane projects simultaneously—Rowdy Janardhan and VD14 (his period drama with Rahul Sankrityan). And by his own admission, the makers are pushing him to his absolute limits. Taking to Instagram to share a rare life update, Vijay Deverakonda gave fans a peek into his grueling schedule, confessing that the double-duty is no walk in the park. The actor revealed that shooting for two massive films in parallel has been extremely demanding and has effectively taken over his life. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vijay Deverakonda (@thedeverakonda) In a candid note, he wrote: It's been a while... Shooting 2 films parallely for the 1st time in my life.. both extremely demanding, they have taken up my life.The schedule is so packed that the actor hinted at the torturous discipline required to keep up, stating he trains like he is always prepared for war and refuses to skip his pooja rituals despite the exhaustion. In the same life update post where he detailed his grueling work schedule, Vijay shifted gears to share some personal highlights. After describing the intense physical and mental demands of his shoots, he wrote, But here are bits from my life recently. before showcasing his latest purchases—including some new tech gadgets he is enjoying and his current favorite accessory, a beautiful vintage Rolex. One half of this grueling schedule belongs to Rowdy Janardhan (tentatively VD13). Directed by Ravi Kiran Kola and backed by ace producer Dil Raju, this film promises to be a raw, rural mass entertainer. The project marks a significant shift for Vijay, bringing him back to the rugged, high-octane zone that his fans adore. Adding to the intense pressure is VD14, a massive period action drama directed by Rahul Sankrityan, marking a reunion for the duo after their hit film Taxiwaala. Produced by the heavyweights at Mythri Movie Makers, this project is touted to be the most ambitious undertaking of Vijay's career. Set in a cursed land between 1854-1878, the film reportedly features Vijay in the role of a warrior—a character that demands a severe physical transformation and rigorous combat training. This grueling preparation explains the actor's declaration that he is "always ready for war," as he shapes up to anchor a historical narrative of this scale. With Kingdom (VD12) behind him, Vijay is clearly leaving no stone unturned for 2026. While the schedule might be torturous, the actor is channeling that pain into what promises to be the most ambitious phase of his career.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The party anthem of the year has officially arrived! Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday have set the internet ablaze with the launch of the title track of their upcoming romantic entertainer, Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri. The song was unveiled at a grand event in Jaipur, bringing the Pink City to life with its electrifying beats. Reigniting their sizzling on-screen chemistry, Kartik and Ananya look stunning in the music video. The track is described as having an absolutely infectious vibe, with Kartik Aaryan once again proving why he is one of Bollywood's best dancers with his effortless, high-energy moves.The foot-tapping number has been composed and rendered by the dynamic duo Vishal-Sheykhar, promising to be a staple on dance floors this wedding season. Watch the full video below: The film marks a significant reunion for director Sameer Vidwans and Kartik Aaryan, following the massive critical and commercial success of Satyaprem Ki Katha. Backed by a powerhouse production team, the movie is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, Shareen Mantri Kedia, Kishor Arora, and Bhumika Tewari. It is a joint presentation by Dharma Productions and Namah Pictures. Mark your calendars! Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri is locked for a massive worldwide theatrical release on Thursday, December 25, 2025. The film is set to light up the box office this Christmas, promising a perfect blend of romance, music, and entertainment.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, November 28 - The fifth and final season of Netflix's highly-awaited sci-fi horror Stranger Things has arrived, and early audience reactions to the first 4 episodes are largely positive. Fans praise the darker tone, intense action, and emotional storytelling, calling it a grand and satisfying start to the show's closing chapter. Created by Duffer Brothers, Stranger Things 5 follows after the events of the fourth season. In the fall of 1987, the group seeks to find and kill Vecna after the Rifts opened in Hawkins. The mission becomes complicated when the military arrives in Hawkins and begins hunting Eleven. As the anniversary of Will Byers' disappearance approaches, the group must fight one last time against a deadly threat. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While viewers are praising the show for its visuals and eerie atmosphere, some viewers, however, point out that the season's long episodes and multiple subplots slow the pacing at times. A few characters feel underused, according to fan discussions, but strong performances—especially by Millie Bobby Brown and Noah Schnapp—have been widely praised. Emotional payoff is a major highlight for fans. Many believe the show successfully ties together long-running story threads while delivering several powerful, heartfelt moments. The horror elements, too, are getting attention, with viewers calling this one of the series' scariest seasons yet. Overall, the audience verdict leans strongly positive. Even with minor pacing issues, fans feel the first 4 episodes, especially the 4th, of Season 5 offer memorable sequences, strong character arcs, and a fitting setup for the series finale. For many, it's a thrilling and nostalgic farewell to a show they've followed for nearly a decade. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) #StrangerThings5 kicks off strong, the first four episodes are fantastic, fast paced, and packed with new reveals🔥If they keep this momentum, we might be looking at the best season yet❗pic.twitter.com/xVH7SOey8p— Mohammed Ihsan (@ihsan21792) November 28, 2025 Sorry kids, but #StrangerThings5 is off to a rough beginning of the end. The final season of the hit Netflix series has the longest episodes, but also the most painfully clunky dialogue. It only makes one nostalgic for its beginning nearly a decade ago. Review in the first reply. pic.twitter.com/DH0OARXy8L— Chase 'Hutch' Hutchinson (@EclecticHutch) November 27, 2025 just finished watching all 4 episodes, I don't want to give any spoilers but omg it was so good, some really iconic scenes, full of action & as always an emotional rollercoaster, can't wait for the rest of the episodes ❤️#StrangerThings #StrangerThings5pic.twitter.com/Y2JsboMvk3— ßεςκα 🤍 (@exoforever4812) November 27, 2025 #StrangerThings5 Vol 1: Review[ 5 / 5 ⭐ ]What a start to the last season it is. Epic action, heartbreaking moments, all done on a grand scale.This show remains a masterful interplay of light and dark, funny and tense, playful and deeply serious.This is cinema ✋😮🤚 pic.twitter.com/VnTAmmLR3L— The Cinediction (@TheCinediction) November 27, 2025 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Stranger Things 5 review:The Duffer Brothers did a great job with the ending of #StrangerThings5 part 1! Without spoilers it's the kind of ending that leaves you super hyped for part 2, but without making you mad that you have to wait. 5/5 stars for me! Hyped for part 2. pic.twitter.com/WILf6Omtgb— JRT_Games (@JRT_Games) November 28, 2025 Just finished #StrangerThings5 Vol. 1 and I can’t say I enjoyed it. Very slow till the back half of episode 4. Acting from some of the cast is really poor. The story feels like it was thrown together last minute to fix plot holes. I liked the ending but yeah I’m disappointed. 😔 pic.twitter.com/q5TCUANGOb— Drew TheThemeParkDude (@DrewTheDude123) November 27, 2025 Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

In what promises to be one of the most emotional cinematic events of the year, the makers of the upcoming war drama Ikkis have unveiled a special tribute from the legendary Dharmendra. As the industry mourns the loss of the He-Man of Bollywood, his final silver-screen appearance has just been given a soul-stirring heartbeat—a poem penned and recited by the icon himself. The makers, Maddock Films, released a moving video featuring a poem written by Dharmendra titled "Aj bhi ji karda hai, pind apne nu jaavan" (My heart still yearns to go back to my village). The verses capture the veteran actor's deep connection to his roots, mirroring the film's theme of love, loss, and the longing for home. Directed by National Award-winner Sriram Raghavan, the film uses this poetry to underline the emotional father-son bond that forms the crux of the story. While the film serves as a tribute to a legend, it also marks the arrival of a new star. Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, is making his theatrical debut in the challenging role of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Following his digital debut in The Archies, Agastya steps into the boots of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film chronicles the life of the 21-year-old war hero who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Ikkis marks the highly anticipated reunion of the powerhouse duo, director Sriram Raghavan and producer Dinesh Vijan, who previously defined gritty cinema with their cult classic collaboration Badlapur (2015). Known for his mastery over suspense in hits like Andhadhun and Merry Christmas, Raghavan is now shifting gears to helm this biographical war drama, promising a narrative that is as deeply personal as it is patriotic. Adding weight to this vision is a stellar cast featuring Agastya Nanda alongside the legendary Dharmendra—who portrays the hero's father, M.L. Khetarpal—and the intense Jaideep Ahlawat in a pivotal role, setting the stage for a cinematic tour de force. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Ikkis chronicles the heroic life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal while delving into the poignant emotional journey of his family. The biographical drama is officially locked for a grand worldwide theatrical release this Christmas, hitting screens on Thursday, December 25, 2025. Beyond its patriotic core, the film has generated massive anticipation as a historic cinematic event, serving as the final cinematic chapter of the legendary Dharmendra’s illustrious 65-year career.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Ahmedabad, November 28 – Gujarati cinema witnesses a landmark moment as the devotional hit Laalo Krishna Sada Sahaayate has become the first ever Gujarati film to hit 100 crores gross collection at the worldwide box office, a milestone industry didn't think of. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The film, driven by strong audience sentiment and remarkable word of mouth, has emerged as a cultural phenomenon across Gujarat and Gujarati-speaking regions worldwide. After 49 days in theatres, Laalo has grossed an impressive 93.50 crore in India, making it the highest-grossing Gujarati film of all time. Tere Ishk Mein Box Office Prediction/Preview: Dhanush, Kriti Sanon-starrer Set For Strong Start The film was also released in international markets recently, and its overseas run has added another 5.50 crore, taking the worldwide tally to around 99 crore as of today, an extraordinary achievement for a regional devotional drama. It will comfortably breach the 100 crore global milestone by the end of the day (50th day), marking a historic first for the Gujarati film industry. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) This milestone is particularly significant considering the limited market size of Gollywood, making the film’s streak nothing short of sensational. With sustained footfalls even in its seventh week, Laalo Krishna Sada Sahaayate continues to attract family audiences and devotees alike. Its monumental success has not only set new benchmarks but has also opened fresh possibilities for Gujarati cinema. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The theatrical run of Mahavatar Narsimha may have officially ended, but its legacy is just beginning. In a script that feels more dramatic than fiction, India’s highest-grossing animated film has officially qualified for the Best Animated Feature category at the 98th Academy Awards. What started as a risky dream for a small team has now cemented its place in history, setting the stage for a David vs. Goliath battle against global heavyweights. Behind the headlines of Oscar qualifications and a historic ₹ 325.74 Cr theatrical run lies a reality far removed from the glitz of the red carpet. Mahavatar Narsimha wasn't born in a high-tech corporate boardroom or backed by deep-pocketed sponsors. Instead, it was crafted in a tiny studio over five grueling years, fueled by a team that quite literally bet the roof over their heads to prove a point. The journey to the 98th Academy Awards was paved with immense personal sacrifice. According to reports, creator Ashwin Kumar and his team faced a daunting path, enduring the uncertainty of two COVID-19 lockdowns that threatened to derail the project entirely. In a revealing statement to Telugu FilmNagar, Kumar admitted that the team bypassed traditional big-studio backing, choosing instead to fund the film themselves. This meant emptying life savings and even mortgaging their homes to keep the production afloat.All our savings went into making this, and our home is leased, Kumar revealed. We heard no from so many people. The struggle wasn't just financial; it was ideological. For years, the team fought against the industry stereotype that animation in India is exclusively for children.This is not a cartoon; it’s a universal film made for grown-ups too, Ashwin emphasized. Their vision was to build an Indian Cinematic Universe rooted in mythology that could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global giants like Disney and Marvel—a goal that seemed impossible to many investors who turned them away. Today, that gamble has paid off in historic fashion. The film that began in a tiny studio with mortgaged assets has now qualified for the Best Animated Feature category at the Oscars 2026. It stands as a competitor against billion-dollar franchises like Zootopia 2 and Chainsaw Man. From facing rejection to awaiting the final nomination list on December 16, the team behind Mahavatar Narsimha has proven that Indian animation is ready to shine—not because of big budgets, but because of an unbreakable belief in the story.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

This week’s chart is a mix of star-studded theatrical blockbusters finding a second wind and exclusive OTT premieres making waves. The list is led by the courtroom comedy Jolly LLB 3, while regional cinema continues to dominate with hits like Dude and Bison Kaalamaadan. 1. Jolly LLB 3 (2 Weeks in Top 10) Genre: Courtroom Drama / Comedy Cast: Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi, Saurabh Shukla, Huma Qureshi Director: Subhash Kapoor Performance: After a ₹160+ Cr theatrical run, the film is dominating streaming charts, with viewers praising the "Double Jolly" chemistry. The franchise’s biggest face-off yet sees the original Jolly (Arshad Warsi) locking horns with the reigning Jolly (Akshay Kumar) in a case involving corrupt officials and a powerful builder. Judge Tripathi returns to referee the chaos. 2. Dude (2 Weeks in Top 10) Genre: Romantic Comedy Cast: Pradeep Ranganathan, Mamitha Baiju, Sarathkumar Director: Keerthiswaran Performance: Fresh off a successful theatrical run in Tamil Nadu, the film’s youthful vibe has made it a favorite among Gen-Z audiences nationwide. A fresh take on modern relationships, the story follows Agan and Kural, childhood friends whose bond is tested when one falls in love while the other tries to navigate family pressure and caste dynamics. 3. Telusu Kada (2 Weeks in Top 10) Genre: Romantic Drama Cast: Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Raashii Khanna, Srinidhi Shetty Director: Neeraja Kona Performance: Despite mixed theatrical reviews, the film is performing exceptionally well on OTT, aided by Thaman S's chart-topping soundtrack. A stylized drama about Varun, a chef caught in a web of past baggage and present commitments. The story takes a complex turn with a surrogacy subplot that tests his marriage. 4. Bison Kaalamaadan (1 Week in Top 10) Genre: Sports Drama Cast: Dhruv Vikram, Pasupathy, Anupama Parameswaran Director: Mari Selvaraj Performance: Critics have hailed this as Dhruv Vikram’s career-best performance, with the film's gritty realism sparking strong social media conversations. Based on the life of Kabaddi player Manathi Ganesan, this raw drama follows a young man from an oppressed community who fights systemic discrimination to become a national champion. 5. Dining with the Kapoors (1 Week in Top 10) Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor Genre: Documentary / Reality Special Director: Smriti Mundhra Performance: Debuting strong, the special has gone viral for its candid moments, especially the banter between cousins Ranbir and Kareena. A first-of-its-kind "fly-on-the-wall" special where Bollywood’s first family gathers for their legendary annual lunch to celebrate Raj Kapoor’s legacy, sharing food, secrets, and nostalgia. 6. Idli Kadai (4 Weeks in Top 10) Cast: Dhanush, Nithya Menen, Arun Vijay Genre: Drama Director: Dhanush Performance: A "comfort watch" that has held its spot for a month, largely due to the celebrated chemistry between Dhanush and Nithya Menen. A heartwarming tale of a successful man who returns to his village to take over his father’s humble Idli shop, rediscovering his roots and the joy of simple living. 7. Baramulla (3 Weeks in Top 10) Cast: Manav Kaul, Bhasha Sumbli Genre: Supernatural Thriller Director: Aditya Suhas Jambhale Plot: Set against the snowy backdrop of Kashmir, a cop investigating missing children stumbles upon a mystery that blurs the lines between crime and the paranormal. Performance: A sleeper hit on the platform, praised for its eerie atmosphere and Manav Kaul’s intense performance. 8. Frankenstein (3 Weeks in Top 10) Cast: Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, Christoph Waltz Genre: Gothic Horror Director: Guillermo del Toro Performance: A global hit that is trending in India for its stunning visuals and Jacob Elordi’s tragic portrayal of the Monster. A visual masterpiece reimagining the classic tale where Dr. Victor Frankenstein challenges nature to create life, only to birth a tragic creature that exposes humanity's own monstrosity. 9. Homebound (1 Week in Top 10) Cast: Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, Janhvi Kapoor Genre: Drama Director: Neeraj Ghaywan Performance: Recently selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars, the film has seen a surge in viewership and is being called a "powerful, necessary watch." Two childhood friends from a marginalized community dream of joining the police force. Their bond is tested by societal barriers and the harsh realities of the COVID-19 lockdown. 10. Ek Chatur Naar (3 Weeks in Top 10) Cast: Divya Khosla Kumar, Neil Nitin Mukesh Genre: Dark Comedy / Thriller Director: Umesh Shukla Performance: A surprise entry that has remained in the Top 10, finding a loyal audience among fans of light-hearted thrillers. A slice-of-life thriller where a struggling woman finds a lost phone belonging to a corrupt power broker, leading to a dangerous game of blackmail and wits. From the high-stakes courtroom drama of Jolly LLB 3 to the gothic chills of Frankenstein, this week’s Top 10 proves that Indian streaming audiences are more experimental than ever. The clear takeaway is the blurring line between Regional and National cinema; with Tamil and Telugu hits like Dude, Bison Kaalamaadan, and Idli Kadaioccupying nearly half the chart, Whether you are looking for the nostalgic comfort of the Kapoor family lunch, the gritty realism of an Oscar entry like Homebound, or a breezy rom-com, this list offers a perfect binge-watch option for every mood. /* This class makes the video responsive */ .responsive-video { width: 100%; /* Take up available width */ max-width: 100%; /* Prevent overflowing the container */ aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; /* Maintain standard YouTube shape */ height: auto; /* Allow height to adjust automatically */ display: block; /* Removes tiny space below inline elements */ }

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The wait for a massive turnaround for Ustaad Ram Pothineni continues. His latest emotional drama, Andhra King Taluka, released yesterday (Thursday) to a lukewarm reception at the ticket windows. Despite a fresh combination with director Mahesh Babu P and the presence of Kannada superstar Upendra, the film’s opening day numbers have fallen significantly short of the actor’s recent standards. According to early estimates, Andhra King Taluka collected a net of ₹4.25 Crore in India on its first day (Thursday). While these numbers would be decent for a mid-range film, they are alarming for a star of Ram’s stature, especially when compared to his previous openers. The film has failed to generate the "mass frenzy" usually associated with his releases. To put the current performance into perspective, a comparison with Ram Pothineni’s recent releases reveals a concerning downward trend in his initial theatrical pull. While his previous outing Skanda registered a massive opening of ₹13.6 crore gross, followed by Double iSmart with a moderate start of ₹8.4 crore gross, Andhra King Taluka has opened significantly lower. With an estimated gross of roughly ₹5.2 crore (derived from the ₹4.25 crore net figures), the film’s opening numbers are approximately 60% lower than Skanda and trail significantly behind Double iSmart, indicating a sharp decline in day-one dominance. Trade analysts suggest the drop in numbers could be due to the film’s significant genre shift. Unlike Ram Pothineni’s previous high-octane mass actioners like Skanda and Double iSmart, Andhra King Taluka is pitched as an emotional biopic of a fan, a theme that may not have immediately resonated with the mass audience. Directed by Mahesh Babu P (of Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty fame), the film features Bhagyashri Borse as the female lead and music by the duo Vivek-Mervin. The plot follows the journey of Sagar (Ram Pothineni), a die-hard fan whose life revolves around a fictional superstar named Surya Kumar, played by Kannada star Upendra, shifting the focus from typical commercial elevations to a more grounded, character-driven narrative. Early word of mouth is mixed to positive but lacks blockbuster euphoria. While audiences are praising Ram Pothineni’s grounded performance and his emotional dynamic with Upendra, the slow pacing and absence of commercial high moments have reportedly disappointed the core mass audience expecting his usual high-energy actioners. With an opening of ₹4.25 Crore Net, Andhra King Taluka has a runway to build momentum over the coming days. The Thursday release provides a strategic advantage in the form of an extended weekend, offering ample time for the film to grow. If the emotional content resonates with the audience as expected, the movie is well-positioned to capitalize on the holiday stretch and see an upward trend in collections.