As October draws to a close, both streaming platforms and theatres are rolling out a star-studded line-up to keep audiences hooked. From mythological sagas and heartwarming dramas to courtroom thrillers and nostalgia-filled re-releases, the week ahead promises a rich mix of entertainment. Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, Dhanush’s Idli Kadai, and Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah headline the OTT slate, while Paresh Rawal’s The Taj Story and the grand Shah Rukh Khan film festival take over cinemas.

OTT releases this week

The small-screen lineup this week brings together myth, magic, and emotion across languages and genres.

Rishab Shetty’s much-awaited Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 premieres on Prime Video on October 31. The prequel to his 2022 blockbuster delves deeper into the origins of the divine folklore that shaped the world of Kantara. Set against the mystical coastal landscapes of Karnataka, the film blends devotion and destiny in Shetty’s signature storytelling style. After earning over ₹800 crore at the global box office, the film now makes its digital debut in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

On JioHotstar, October 31 also marks the arrival of Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan. Directed by Dominic Arun, the Malayalam superhero film follows a mysterious woman with supernatural powers caught in a dangerous organ-trafficking network. Rooted in Kerala folklore, Lokah became one of the biggest Malayalam hits of the year, earning over ₹300 crore.

Dhanush’s Idli Kadai, which begins streaming on Netflix on October 29, brings a dose of warmth and nostalgia. The Tamil family drama tells the story of a man who returns from Dubai to take over his father’s modest idli shop, rediscovering his roots and reconnecting with his community. Featuring Nithya Menen, Raj Kiran, and Sathyaraj alongside Dhanush, the film has been praised for its gentle storytelling and emotional depth.

Netflix also premieres the fourth season of The Witcher on October 30, with Liam Hemsworth stepping into the role of Geralt of Rivia. As war, magic, and betrayal threaten to consume the Continent, the new season promises darker twists and an emotionally charged narrative.

For Kannada audiences, Maarigallu on ZEE5, releasing October 31, offers a blend of history and suspense. Directed by Devaraj Poojary, the supernatural thriller follows a village performer who uncovers a treasure connected to the Kadamba dynasty, leading to a series of eerie and mysterious events.

Tiger Shroff is back in action mode with Baaghi 4, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. The movie, which was available for rent since October 17, will be free to all Prime subscribers starting October 31, 2025. If you missed the theatrical release, this is your chance to catch Tiger at his best — flipping, fighting, and flying through chaos.

The film follows Ronny, an elite officer haunted by visions of his late girlfriend Alisha. As he digs deeper into her mysterious disappearance, he discovers a dark conspiracy led by a ruthless businessman, Chacko (Sanjay Dutt). What follows is an intense revenge saga packed with high-octane stunts and emotional turmoil — the perfect choice for those craving adrenaline over the weekend.

Other digital releases include M3GAN 2.0 (JioHotstar, October 27), Ballad of a Small Player starring Colin Farrell (Netflix, October 29), Blackmail starring GV Prakash Kumar (SunNXT, October 30), and the Malayalam anthology Madhuram Jeevamrutha Bindu (Saina Play, October 31).

In theatres this week

On the big screen, the weekend lineup is just as compelling, offering everything from courtroom intensity to lighthearted humour — and a heavy dose of nostalgia.

Paresh Rawal returns in The Taj Story, releasing on October 31. Directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, the courtroom drama follows a tour guide who challenges the accepted history of the Taj Mahal, sparking a nationwide debate on faith and heritage. The film aims to balance provocation with perspective, pushing audiences to re-examine historical narratives.

For those looking for lighter fare, October 31 also sees the release of One Two Cha Cha Chaa, a family comedy starring Lalit Prabhakar, Ashutosh Rana, and Anant V Joshi. Known for his intense performances, Rana takes on a rare comic role in this warm-hearted tale of family chaos and mistaken identities.

Adding to the big-screen excitement, S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali: The Epic returns to theatres on October 31 as a single extended cut to celebrate the film’s 10th anniversary. The re-release promises to recreate the cinematic grandeur that defined a generation of Indian filmmaking.

Cinemas across the country are also gearing up for a two-week Shah Rukh Khan Film Festival, running from October 31 to November 14. Organised by PVR INOX to mark the superstar’s 60th birthday on November 2, the festival will screen some of his most iconic films — including Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, Dil Se, Devdas, Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express, and Jawan — across 75 cinemas in over 30 cities.

This week’s releases offer something for every viewer. Those drawn to folklore and spectacle will find Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 irresistible, while Idli Kadai delivers quiet emotional resonance. Fantasy lovers have The Witcher to look forward to, and theatre-goers can choose between Rawal’s provocative The Taj Story or Rana’s comedic One Two Cha Cha Chaa.

For many, though, the highlight will be revisiting Shah Rukh Khan’s timeless classics on the big screen — a fitting tribute to a star who continues to define Indian cinema. Whether you’re streaming at home or soaking in the magic at the movies, this week’s entertainment lineup ensures the festive season ends on a truly cinematic high.