This week’s OTT lineup brings a balanced mix of familiar favourites and fresh storytelling, with returning franchises, issue-driven narratives, and light-hearted entertainment all dropping together across platforms. From a cult Malayalam hit expanding its universe to a controversial Hindi sequel exploring darker themes, the range reflects diverse viewing moods. Adding to the mix are a Telugu fantasy horror-comedy and a heartfelt animated English film, offering something for every kind of viewer, reporting from Gold 101.3 FM – UAE’s No.1 Malayalam Radio Station.
Leading the slate is Aadu 3 in Malayalam, which marks the much-awaited return of Shaji Pappan and his chaotic gang. This third instalment takes the beloved franchise into a larger, more ambitious space, setting up the first part of a planned two-film narrative. Backed by Friday Film House and Kavya Film Company, the film reunites Jayasurya with a familiar ensemble while introducing new characters that expand the quirky world fans have come to love. Aadu 3 begins streaming on ZEE5 from May 1.
In Hindi, The Kerala Story 2 centres on the lives of three young women from Kochi, Gwalior, and Jodhpur. Directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh, the film explores themes of coercion, manipulation, and violence within the framework of marriage. While it attempts to present a hard-hitting narrative, the storytelling leans toward a cautionary tone, with criticism around its lack of nuance and broad portrayal of sensitive issues. The film streams on ZEE5 from May 1.
From Telugu cinema, Raakaasa offers a mix of supernatural thrills and humour. Directed by debutant Manasa Sharma and produced by Niharika Konidela, the film stars Sangeeth Shobhan alongside Vennela Kishore, Getup Srinu, and Tanikella Bharani. After its theatrical run in April, the fantasy horror-comedy arrives on Netflix on May 1, aiming to connect with a wider audience.
Meanwhile, the English animated film Swapped brings a lighter, family-friendly option to the lineup. The story follows an unlikely duo—Ollie, a timid woodland creature, and Ivy, a proud bird—who are forced to switch bodies due to a magical twist. Voiced by Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple, the film blends humour and adventure while exploring themes of empathy and friendship. Swapped is also streaming on Netflix from May 1.
With a mix of action, emotion, controversy, and fun, this week’s OTT releases promise a well-rounded viewing experience across genres and languages.
