Bollywood

3 days ago

338 views

Dhamaal 4 Trailer Launch: Ajay Devgn & Team to Unveil a Massive 60-ft Poster at Imagicaa's Grand Waterfall

BY SACNILK

This week is turning out to be a treat for Bollywood fans with back-to-back grand trailer launches. While the industry is currently buzzing with the jungle-themed launch of Welcome To The Jungle, the makers of Dhamaal 4 are ready to take things to a whole new level of adventure. In an exclusive report by Bollywood Hungama, it has been revealed that the trailer for Dhamaal 4 will be unveiled tomorrow, June 12, at the popular Imagicaa amusement park near Mumbai. The Dhamaal franchise has always been about madness and over-the-top comedy, and the team wants the trailer launch to reflect that exact energy. According to sources, the event is designed to be much more than a traditional press conference. Media persons attending the event will be treated to an immersive, adventure-led experience that mirrors the treasure-hunt narrative of the upcoming film. It is clear that director Indra Kumar and the producers want to create a massive talking point right from the start. The biggest highlight of this grand event will be the poster reveal. The makers have planned to unveil a massive 60-ft poster that will cascade down a grand waterfall at the park. This spectacular reveal will happen in the presence of the entire star cast, making it a visually stunning moment. By choosing an amusement park as the venue, the makers are signaling that Dhamaal 4 is going to be a pure family entertainer filled with thrills and spills. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Dhamaal 4 brings back the iconic core cast that fans have loved for years. The film features Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Sanjay Mishra, and Jaaved Jaaferi. This group has a unique comic timing that has made the previous installments major hits at the box office. Adding more flavor to the mix, the ensemble also includes Esha Gupta, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Anjali Anand, Upendra Limaye, Vijay Patkar, and Ravi Kishan. With such a diverse cast, the madness is expected to be multifold. The franchise has a strong track record, with the previous film, Total Dhamaal, being a huge success in 2019. Fans have been waiting to see the original gang back on a treasure hunt, and the buzz for the fourth part is already sky-high. Dhamaal 4 is presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series in association with Devgn Films. It is produced by a heavyweight team including Bhushan Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Indra Kumar himself. With the trailer dropping tomorrow, the countdown for this laughter riot has officially begun.

Bollywood

3 days ago

1.1K views

Cocktail 2, Alpha, Welcome To The Jungle And More: Bollywood's Crucial One Month Summer Window Begins

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, June 11 - The Hindi film industry is entering what could be its most important theatrical phase of 2026. In less than 30 days, Bollywood will see the release of five major films with significant commercial expectations. Beginning with Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata on June 12 and concluding with Dhamaal 4 on July 10, the industry will be hoping for a sustained run of box-office successes to strengthen the theatrical business during the summer season. The crucial release window kicks off with Kangana Ranaut's patriotic drama Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata on June 12, which is based on the true events of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, focusing on the staff at Cama Hospital who risked their lives to save over 400 patients. It is Kangana's first release since Emergency in January 2025. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) BBV is followed by one of the year's most anticipated romantic dramas, Cocktail 2, on June 19. The sequel, led by Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna, has generated considerable buzz among moviegoers and currently sits among the most-awaited Hindi films of the year. A week later, superstar Akshay Kumar-led comedy entertainer Welcome To The Jungle arrives on June 26, carrying the responsibility of reviving one of Bollywood's most popular comedy franchises. The momentum continues with Yash Raj Films' ambitious spy action thriller Alpha on July 3. Headlined by Alia Bhatt, Sharvari Wagh, and Bobby Deol, the film marks the first female-led instalment in the YRF Spy Universe and is expected to be one of the biggest Hindi releases of 2026. The film's teaser has already sparked significant discussion online, making it one of the most closely watched projects of the year. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Major Bollywood Releases In Next Four Weeks (June 12 - July 10) S. No. Movie Release Date 1 Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata June 12 2 Main Vaapas Aaunga June 12 3 Governor June 12 4 Cocktail 2 June 19 5 Welcome 3 June 26 6 Alpha July 3 7 Dhamaal 4 July 10 The one-month stretch concludes with Dhamaal 4 on July 10. Featuring Ajay Devgn and an ensemble cast, the comedy sequel is expected to attract family audiences and capitalise on the franchise's strong popularity. The decision to position the film for a solo release has further increased expectations surrounding its box office prospects. For Bollywood, the significance of this release corridor extends beyond the fate of individual films. The industry has often relied on a cluster of successful releases to create positive momentum at the box office. With a patriotic drama, a romantic sequel, franchise-based comedy spectacles, and a spy action thriller arriving in consecutive weeks, the next month could play a defining role in shaping the narrative of Bollywood's theatrical business for the remainder of 2026.

Bollywood

5 days ago

887 views

Dhamaal 4 Release Date Moves Up As Bollywood Makes Way For Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey For Solo Release

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, June 9 - Bollywood star Ajay Devgn's much-awaited comedy entertainer Dhamaal 4 is reportedly set for another release date change as Bollywood reshuffles its release calendar ahead of Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated epic The Odyssey. The move is aimed at avoiding a direct clash and ensuring that both films get sufficient breathing space at the box office. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While an official announcement is still awaited, the development has already become a major talking point among trade circles. Dhamaal 4, directed by Indra Kumar and starring Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Jaaved Jaaferi, and Sanjay Mishra, is now expected to release on July 10, 2026. The comedy sequel was previously scheduled to arrive on July 17, but the makers have reportedly decided to move it a week earlier to create room for The Odyssey, which is slated for a worldwide release on July 17. Christopher Nolan remains one of the most bankable filmmakers in India, with films such as Oppenheimer, Interstellar, and Dunkirk enjoying tremendous success among audiences. Given the enormous demand expected for The Odyssey, particularly across IMAX and premium-format screens, exhibitors are likely to prioritise it over other films. The advance booking for the same has already begun in IMAX, and as expected, the initial response is super solid. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The revised strategy allows Dhamaal 4 to capitalise on its own theatrical window before the Hollywood spectacle takes over multiplexes. The decision reflects a growing trend within the industry, where producers are increasingly willing to adjust release plans to avoid major box-office clashes. If the new date is officially confirmed, Dhamaal 4 will benefit from a cleaner opening week, while The Odyssey will enjoy a solo release frame, setting the stage for two of the most anticipated films of the month to maximise their theatrical potential.

Bollywood

8 days ago

949 views

Ajay Devgn's Drishyam 3 Gets Major Changes for Hindi Audience; Ravi Basrur Comes On Board

BY SACNILK

Ajay Devgn's much-awaited Drishyam 3 is gearing up for its theatrical release on October 2, 2026, and a fresh report has revealed an interesting update about the film's story and music. According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the Hindi version of Drishyam 3 will not closely follow the recently released Malayalam original and will instead feature significant changes tailored for Hindi audiences. The first two installments of the franchise largely stayed faithful to their Malayalam counterparts. However, the report states that the makers have taken a different approach with the third chapter by introducing major alterations to the narrative, including several plot developments and twists. Despite these changes, the film is said to retain the essence of the Drishyam universe that audiences have come to associate with the franchise. The development is in line with what director Abhishek Pathak had previously indicated while discussing the project. The filmmaker explained that while both versions share the same emotional foundation, they have been designed differently in terms of storytelling. According to Pathak, the Malayalam version leans more towards a family drama, whereas the Hindi adaptation has been developed as a family thriller, a distinction that is expected to become more evident in the third installment. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The report further claims that the makers are pleased with the performances delivered by the ensemble cast. Apart from Ajay Devgn reprising his role as Vijay Salgaonkar, the film also features Tabu, Shriya Saran and several returning cast members from the previous installments. New additions such as Jaideep Ahlawat and Prakash Raj are also expected to play significant roles in the narrative, adding fresh dynamics to the story. Another notable update concerns the film's music. As per the report, acclaimed composer Ravi Basrur has come on board for Drishyam 3. Best known for his work in blockbuster films such as KGF, Salaar, Marco and Toxic, Basrur reunites with Ajay Devgn after their collaborations on Bholaa and Singham Again. His inclusion marks another change for the franchise, as each Hindi installment has featured a different musical team. While Vishal Bhardwaj composed the music for the first film, Devi Sri Prasad took over scoring duties for Drishyam 2. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Drishyam remains one of the most successful thriller franchises in Indian cinema. The Hindi adaptation of Drishyam 2 emerged as a major box office success in 2022, collecting over ₹342 crore worldwide and reaffirming the popularity of Vijay Salgaonkar's story among Hindi audiences. As a result, expectations for the third installment are considerably high. Presented by Star Studios and produced under the Panorama Studios banner, Drishyam 3 is directed by Abhishek Pathak and written by Abhishek Pathak, Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. The film is produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak, Alok Jain and Ajit Andhare and is currently scheduled to arrive in cinemas on October 2, 2026.

Bollywood

12 days ago

683 views

Drishyam 3 Update: Ajay Devgn Starrer Wraps Shooting As Post-Production Begins Ahead Of October Release

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, June 2 - Bollywood star Ajay Devgn's upcoming crime suspense thriller Drishyam 3 has wrapped up its filming. The highly anticipated sequel has now moved into post-production and is gearing up for its theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Director Abhishek Pathak recently confirmed the completion of the film's final shooting schedule, marking a major milestone for one of Bollywood's most awaited releases. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The filmmaker shared an emotional note with the cast and crew, expressing gratitude for their efforts throughout the production journey. The film's production was carried out across multiple locations, including Mumbai and Goa. Reports suggest that the makers filmed several crucial sequences during an extended Goa schedule, which played a significant role in bringing the story to life. Star-Studded Cast Returns Ajay Devgn reprises his iconic role as Vijay Salgaonkar, the ordinary man who repeatedly outsmarts the police and protects his family. Returning alongside him are Tabu as Meera Deshmukh and Shriya Saran as Nandini Salgaonkar. The third instalment also features acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat in a pivotal role, adding further intrigue to the mystery thriller. Veteran actor Prakash Raj recently completed his portions for the film and expressed confidence that audiences would enjoy the final product. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) One Of Bollywood's Most Anticipated Sequels The Drishyam franchise has emerged as one of the most successful thriller series in Indian cinema. Both previous instalments were major box office successes, with audiences praising their gripping storytelling, suspenseful twists, and strong performances. As a result, expectations for Drishyam 3 are exceptionally high. While plot details remain under wraps, industry reports indicate that the Hindi adaptation may incorporate fresh narrative elements, ensuring surprises even for viewers familiar with the original Malayalam version. With filming now complete, the countdown to release has officially begun. The makers are expected to unveil the film's first teaser, posters, and promotional material in the coming months. Scheduled to arrive in cinemas on October 2, 2026, Drishyam 3 is poised to be one of the biggest Bollywood releases of the year. Fans will once again witness Vijay Salgaonkar's battle of wits as the franchise returns with another chapter of suspense, mystery, and high-stakes drama.

Box Office

28 days ago

2.3K views

Dhamaal 4 Release Date Shift: A Strategic Move to Maximize the Summer 2026 Comedy Window

BY SACNILK

Dhamaal 4 has a new release date, with the film now scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 17, 2026. As per an exclusive report by Bollywood Hungama, the sequel has moved from its initial July 3 slot to avoid a potential box office overlap with Welcome to the Jungle, which is currently slated for June 26. This adjustment provides both big-budget comedies with a better opportunity to find their audience without competing for the same screens immediately upon release. What makes this move particularly noteworthy is the reported gentleman's agreement between superstars Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar. According to trade sources, the two actors had a direct conversation and agreed that releasing two large-scale comedies just a week apart would likely cannibalize each other's business. By shifting the dates, they have ensured that both projects have enough breathing space to maximize their box office potential in a very busy summer market. Welcome to the Jungle, directed by Ahmed Khan, remains the first big comedy event of the season. It features a sprawling cast including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Raveena Tandon, and Paresh Rawal, among many others. By moving Dhamaal 4 to July 17, the industry ensures a nearly three-week gap between these two tentpole releases. This window is considered ideal in today's theatrical environment, as it allows the first film to exhaust its primary run before the next major release arrives to claim screens and audience attention. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Dhamaal 4 marks the return of the popular franchise under director Indra Kumar. The film brings back the beloved core cast of Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Mishra, and Jaaved Jaaferi, while adding new faces like Ravi Kishan, Esha Gupta, and Sanjeeda Shaikh. Interestingly, Arshad Warsi is part of both ensembles, making the staggered release even more logical for the trade and for the actors involved, ensuring their work doesn't compete with itself. From a trade perspective, this reshuffle could turn the summer of 2026 into one of the biggest seasons for the comedy genre in recent history. Instead of fighting for the same screens, both films are now positioned as standalone theatrical events. This rare example of collaboration over competition reflects a maturing industry where stars and producers are increasingly prioritizing long-term profitability and word-of-mouth over high-profile clashes at the ticket window. The production of Dhamaal 4 involves a massive collaboration between T-Series, Devgn Films, and Maruti International. With Indra Kumar at the helm and a production team including Bhushan Kumar and Kumar Mangat Pathak, the film is poised for a wide release. The revised plan allows for a cleaner run to bring in the moolah, ensuring that the franchise has every opportunity to succeed when it hits theaters on July 17, 2026.

Bollywood

28 days ago

1.6K views

Makers Address Rumours of Akshay Kumar's Remuneration For Golmaal 5

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, May 16 - The makers of the upcoming comedy entertainer Golmaal 5 have reportedly addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding Akshay Kumar and his reported remuneration for the film. Over the last few days, multiple reports claimed that Akshay was being paid a massive 35-40 crore fee for a short shooting schedule in the upcoming comedy entertainer. However, the production house, Rohit Shetty Picturez, has now dismissed all such reports as baseless and purely speculative. In an official statement (via Bollywood Hungama), the spokesperson clarified that the commercial details of the film are confidential and that the numbers being circulated online are not true. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The clarification came after it was reported in the media that Akshay Kumar was charging more than Ajay Devgn for the film. According to those reports, Akshay was allegedly receiving 35-40 crore for around 18-22 days of shoot, while Ajay Devgn was said to be working on a profit-sharing model. Despite the rumours, the makers have requested fans to support the film and avoid believing unverified financial reports. The makers stated that the team is making the film with a lot of love and urged audiences to focus on the excitement surrounding the project rather than speculation about actor fees. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Rohit Shetty, the film marks the fifth instalment of the hugely popular Golmaal franchise. Apart from Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar, the movie also stars Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade, Sharman Joshi, and Kunal Kemmu in prominent roles.

Mollywood

31 days ago

3.9K views

Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 To Have Biggest Release Outside Kerala As Makers Confirm Different Versions of The Film In Malayalam and Hindi

BY SACNILK

Kochi, May 13 - The makers of Drishyam 3 are planning a historic release strategy for the film, with the Mohanlal starrer set to get one of the biggest pan-India rollouts ever for a Malayalam movie. Recent reports confirm that the thriller will release not only in Malayalam but also in dubbed versions across multiple languages, while a separate Hindi adaptation is already in the works with major changes tailored for the North Indian audience. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to producers Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, the Malayalam version of the film will release in over 500 screens outside Kerala, with the number potentially going as high as 800-900 screens depending on exhibitor demand. The makers described it as the biggest pan-India release ever for a Malayalam film, highlighting the massive anticipation surrounding the return of Georgekutty. The film stars Mohanlal in the iconic role of Georgekutty, with Jeethu Joseph once again directing the franchise. Reports also confirm that the movie will simultaneously release in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada dubbed versions alongside the Malayalam original, significantly expanding its reach beyond the Kerala market. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Meanwhile, the Hindi adaptation of Drishyam 3 starring Ajay Devgn is being developed separately and will not completely mirror the Malayalam version. The first two Drishyam films were scene-to-scene remakes of the original Malayalam versions and were massive box office successes. Now, the makers are going with a separate version for Hindi, which will be interesting to see. The buzz surrounding the Malayalam film is already extraordinary ahead of release. Advance bookings for the Malayalam version have reportedly opened with a bang, both in Kerala and overseas markets, indicating massive audience interest in the third chapter of the blockbuster franchise.

Bollywood

33 days ago

3K views

Akshay Kumar's Family Comedy Entertainer With Anees Bazmee Targets December 2026 Release

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, May 11 - Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar and director Anees Bazmee have reunited for a hilarious family comedy. The duo has worked together in films like Welcome (2007), Singh Is King (2008) and Thank You (2011), and now, after 15 years, they are coming together to recreate the same magic which made their previous films cult classics. The yet untitled film is expected to be wrapped by the end of May after a major chunk of filming is already done. It is said to be a situational family comedy, and Akshay Kumar is reportedly happy with how it is shaping up. He is impressed with Bazmee's take on humour, which is magical and stands out even today. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) It is said that the movie, produced by Telugu producer Dil Raju, is gearing up for a December 4, 2026, release, clashing with Ajay Devgn's jungle adventure Ranger. It's a full-on packaged comedy entertainer with super hit music. Happy with how the film has come out so far, Akshay has reportedly asked Anees Bazmee to come up with one more film, as he is confident their current on-floor film is a winner. Apart from Akshay, the film also stars Raashii Khanna as the female lead. Meanwhile, the Khiladi Kumar is currently basking in the success of Bhooth Bangla, which is nearing 250 crores gross at the worldwide box office. He will next be seen in another potential big winner, Welcome To The Jungle / Welcome 3, which is slated for a June 2026 release.

Mollywood

34 days ago

2.4K views

Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 Confirmed To Be Released In Telugu, Kannada, and Tamil Dubbed Versions

BY SACNILK

Kochi, May 11 - The buzz surrounding Drishyam 3 continues to grow bigger with every passing day. After a strong response to the film's promotional material and initial advance bookings, the makers have now confirmed that the Mohanlal-starrer will release not only in Malayalam but also in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada dubbed versions. Jeethu Joseph Confirms Dubbed Version Release of Drishyam 3 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Director Jeethu Joseph confirmed in an interview that the dubbed versions are being prepared alongside the original Malayalam release. Unlike the previous instalments, which were later remade in different industries, the third part is expected to arrive simultaneously for audiences across South India. This move is seen as an attempt to capitalise on the nationwide popularity of the franchise and Mohanlal's growing reach outside Kerala. The development also reportedly rules out the possibility of separate remakes in some industries, especially Telugu cinema. The earlier Telugu adaptations, titled Drushyam and Drushyam 2, featured Venkatesh Daggubati in the lead role and were successful at the box office. With the Telugu version being planned, the remake option is no longer in the making. Meanwhile, the Hindi remake of Drishyam 3, starring Ajay Devgn, is already in production for an October 2, 2026, release. Strong Advance Booking In Kerala and Overseas (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Drishyam 3 has already started its box office journey on a promising note. The pre-sales of the film have crossed 2 crore gross in Kerala, while worldwide sales have topped 5 crores gross for the opening day, with several days still left for release on May 21, plus the full-fledged bookings are yet to open in many regions. The strong initial response reflects the massive anticipation surrounding Georgekutty’s return and the continuation of one of Indian cinema’s most iconic thriller sagas. The Drishyam franchise remains one of Indian cinema's most celebrated thriller series. The first film became a blockbuster and was later remade in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Sinhala, and even Chinese. The sequel was released directly on Amazon Prime Video and scored solid viewership, strengthening the franchise's reputation for gripping storytelling and unpredictable twists.

Advance Booking

46 days ago

1.3K views

Drishyam 3 UK Advance Booking Opens 4 Weeks Early; Official Teaser Date Inside

BY SACNILK

Advance bookings for Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 are set to open in the UK today, marking an early start four weeks before the film's official theatrical release. Industry tracker AB George reported that RFT Films and the Cineworld chain are initiating this window, which is an unusually long lead time for an Indian film in the international market. Adding to the momentum, Mohanlal has officially announced that the first teaser of the film will be released tomorrow, April 29, 2026, at 5 PM IST. The UK market has played a pivotal role in the global journey of this franchise, dating back to 2013 when the first Drishyam became the first Malayalam film to gross over ₹1 crore in the territory. While the 2021 sequel opted for a direct-to-digital release during the pandemic, Drishyam 3 marks the first major theatrical return for the series in over a decade. The landscape for Malayalam cinema in the UK has evolved significantly during this gap, with recent hits like Vaazha 2 and L2: Empuraan expanding the reach of regional content. Due to strong brand loyalty, the franchise is often viewed as a family event in the region, successfully drawing in non-Malayali audiences through subtitled screenings. With an expanded theater network now available, the third installment is positioned to potentially become the highest-grossing Malayalam thriller in the history of the UK box office. This high-stakes global rollout is supported by a significant financial partnership established earlier this year. PEN Studios has committed an investment of ₹100 crore into Aashirvad Cinemas through Panorama Studios specifically for the production of the Malayalam original. This strategic collaboration between the major production houses ensures that the third installment is mounted on a massive scale, matching the worldwide demand and brand value that the Drishyam franchise has built over the years. The project was initially scheduled for an April 2 release but was postponed due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As the GCC market is a vital territory for Malayalam cinema, the makers opted for a strategic delay to ensure an optimal release window. It is now confirmed that the Malayalam version will arrive in theaters first, dismissing earlier reports of a simultaneous rollout with other versions to safeguard the film's narrative twists. Furthermore, the Hindi remake featuring Ajay Devgn is already set for an October 2, 2026, release, aligning with the Gandhi Jayanti holiday. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The decision by UK distributors to open bookings a month in advance highlights the massive brand equity of the Drishyam franchise. By providing a longer booking window, the team intends to capitalize on the popularity of the Georgekutty character to secure a strong opening weekend in Europe. While the original version leads the way, the Hindi remake featuring Ajay Devgn is already locked for a Gandhi Jayanti release on October 2, 2026, ensuring the franchise remains a topic of discussion throughout the year. The speed at which a film reaches the ₹1 Crore pre-sales milestone has become a major benchmark for tracking superstar-led projects in Kerala. Currently, Empuraan holds the record for the fastest film to hit this mark, followed by Leo and the multi-starrer BhaBhaBa. The Mammootty-Mohanlal starrer Patriot also features prominently in this list of top openers, alongside the highly anticipated Coolie. With Drishyam 3 preparing for its domestic rollout, industry eyes are on whether the Mohanlal-Jeethu Joseph collaboration can challenge the top spot currently occupied by Empuraan and set a new standard for pre-release momentum in the state. Drishyam 3 is positioned as a prestigious project intended to conclude the legendary thriller saga. The early booking rollout in the UK serves as a strategic move to establish a record-breaking global footprint, with similar early windows expected in North America and the Gulf. As one of the most anticipated sequels in Indian cinema, the film is expected to be a major high-priority title for the Mollywood box office, aiming to set new benchmarks for regional cinema on the international stage.

Mollywood

52 days ago

1.3K views

Drishyam 3 OTT Rights Put On Hold? Legal Dispute Clouds Digital Deal

BY SACNILK

New Delhi, April 23 - Superstar Mohanlal's highly anticipated Drishyam 3 has run into a major hurdle even before its release. The film's OTT rights, expected to be one of the most lucrative deals in Malayalam cinema, are currently on hold due to a legal dispute, creating uncertainty around its digital premiere. A Clash Over Digital Rights (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The controversy centres on streaming giant Amazon Prime Video and the film's producer, Aashirvad Cinemas. Amazon has asserted that it holds exclusive streaming rights to Drishyam 3, citing an earlier agreement signed with the production banner. According to the platform, the deal includes clauses that either grant it first preference or outright exclusivity for future instalments in the Drishyam franchise. This claim has effectively prevented the producers from exploring fresh OTT offers in the open market. Delhi High Court Grants Interim Relief (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The dispute reached the Delhi High Court, which has granted interim relief in favour of Amazon Prime Video. The court's order temporarily restrains the makers from negotiating or finalising any OTT deal with third parties until the matter is resolved. This development has put the digital rights deal in limbo, halting what could have been (still possible) a record-breaking streaming acquisition. In today's market, where post-theatrical streaming deals are crucial to a film's overall revenue model, this uncertainty can influence both valuation and release timing. Impact on Theatrical Release? (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While the legal battle does not directly affect the film's theatrical release plans, it has significantly delayed clarity on its OTT debut. The Drishyam franchise, helmed by Jeethu Joseph, has historically performed exceptionally well on OTT platforms, making its third instalment a highly sought-after property among streaming services. Drishyam 3 is scheduled to release on May 21, after being postponed from April 2nd. It is the third instalment in the blockbuster crime suspense thriller franchise, which kicked off in 2013. The second film in the series, Drishyam 2, was a direct digital release via Prime Video in 2021. Meanwhile, the Hindi remake of Drishyam 3, starring Ajay Devgn, is slated for October 2, 2026, release.