Movie lovers have several options to choose from this week, with a mix of Malayalam, Telugu and Tamil titles scheduled to arrive across theatres and streaming platforms. The lineup includes romantic comedies, family entertainers, action thrillers and political dramas, with most major releases scheduled for August 21, primarily from Malayalam cinema as it gears up for its Onam season.
‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit ‘ features Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju
Girish A D’s Malayalam movie ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’ is scheduled to reach theatres on August 21, featuring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju in the lead roles. Nivin Pauly plays Justin, a man who prefers a quiet and uncomplicated life, until his routine changes when Ashley, played by Mamitha Baiju, moves into the neighbourhood. Introduced as a socially awkward college student, Ashley’s interactions with Justin gradually develop into a romantic relationship. The film marks another major project from Girish A D following the success of Premalu, with the director also co-writing the screenplay alongside Kiran Josey.
Ravi Teja’s ‘Irumudi’ explores a father-daughter bond
Telugu movie ‘Irumudi’ is also set for a theatrical release on August 21, led by Ravi Teja alongside Priya Bhavani Shankar and Swasika. Directed by Shiva Nirvana, the film revolves around a father whose troubled lifestyle affects his relationship with his young daughter. When she asks him to undertake the Ayyappa Deeksha, his decision to accept her request becomes a major turning point in the story.
‘Khalifa-The Ruler ‘ brings Mohanlal and Prithviraj Sukumaran together
Malayalam action thriller ‘Khalifa-The Ruler’ is another major theatrical release on August 21, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Mohanlal and Neil Nitin Mukesh. Directed by Vysakh, the movie follows Mambarakal Aamir Ali, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran, whose character is connected to an extensive gold-smuggling network inherited from a powerful criminal family.The story spans locations across India and the Middle East, with the trailer showing Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character surrounded by dangerous rivals and associates. Sharing the trailer on social media ahead of release, Prithviraj wrote, “This Onam..A legacy awakens!”
‘Pyaar Prema Kalyanam’ and ‘Jana Nayagan ‘ arrive on OTT
Tamil romantic family entertainer ‘Pyaar Prema Kalyanam’ will premiere directly on Netflix on August 21. Elan has directed the movie and also makes his acting debut with it. Saanvey Meghana plays the lead opposite Elan, while Radhika Sarathkumar features in an important role. The story follows Pavi, a popular influencer who chooses to remain at her family home after marriage, prompting her husband to move into her house instead.Meanwhile, Thalapathy Vijay‘s ‘Jana Nayagan’ will premiere on ZEE5 on the same date. Directed by H. Vinoth, the political action drama also features Pooja Hegde, Prakash Raj, Priyamani and Bobby Deol. Before its OTT release, ‘Jana Nayagan’ earned Rs. 197.08 crore in India net, with its India gross standing at Rs. 229.51 Cr and overseas earnings reaching Rs. 93.50 crore. The worldwide gross currently stands at Rs. 323.01 crore, as per Sacnilk reports, with the Tamil version alone contributing Rs. 170.91 crore across its 27-day theatrical run.
