Impressive Line-up of movies releasing this week

The third week of August 2025 is shaping up to be a treat for cinema lovers, with several eagerly awaited films making their way to major OTT platforms. From regional blockbusters to Hollywood spectacles, this lineup promises variety across languages and genres. Between August 18 and August 24, platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar, Aha, and Apple TV+ will drop titles that cater to both mass and niche audiences. Here’s a detailed look at the highlights of the week.

Mareesan – Netflix – August 22

After collaborating in Maamannan and Nayakudu, Malayalam powerhouse Fahadh Faasil and Tamil comedy legend Vadivelu reunite in Mareesan. Directed by Sudheesh Sankar, this drama-thriller hit the big screens on July 25, 2025, and was praised for blending suspense with emotional storytelling. Fahadh delivers a gripping performance, while Vadivelu adds depth in a dramatic role that’s far removed from his usual comic outings. Produced by RB Choudary, the film also stars Kovai Sarala, Vivek Prasanna, and Renuka. Yuvan Shankar Raja’s music enhances the mood, weaving tension and drama into the narrative. Now set for its OTT premiere, Mareesan will stream on Netflix from August 22 in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, offering nationwide accessibility.

Thalaivan Thalaivii – Prime Video – August 22

Among Tamil cinema’s biggest recent successes, Thalaivan Thalaivii is ready to stream on Amazon Prime Video starting August 22. The film released in Telugu as Sir Madam. Directed by Pandiraj, the family drama stars Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen, whose chemistry and performances earned massive praise during its theatrical run. The film, released in Telugu as Sir Madam, grossed ₹75 crore worldwide, with Tamil Nadu contributing ₹50 crore alone. Produced by Sendhil Thyagarajan and Arjun Thyagarajan under the Sathya Jyothi Films banner, the movie’s soundtrack is composed by Santhosh Narayanan. The OTT release gives viewers who missed the theatrical run a second chance to experience this heartwarming yet emotionally charged drama. With streaming available in multiple languages, including Telugu, the movie is expected to find an even wider audience.

Kothapallilo Okappudu – Aha – August 22

Tollywood producer Praveen Paruchuri, known for delivering the critically acclaimed hit C/o Kancharapalem, recently made his directorial debut with Kothapallilo Okappudu. Released on July 19, the film was well-received for its simple yet fresh storytelling. Featuring Manoj Chandra and Monika in the lead roles, the movie touches upon relatable themes in a rural backdrop, striking a chord with audiences. With its theatrical success behind it, the movie is now ready for its OTT journey. Aha has announced that Kothapallilo Okappudu will stream on its platform from August 22. The project gains added significance as it is co-produced by Praveen Paruchuri along with actor Rana Daggubati, ensuring both credibility and visibility. Viewers are eager to see how the film fares in the digital space, where smaller but impactful narratives often gain renewed appreciation.

The Alto Knights – Jio Hotstar – August 21

For fans of Hollywood cinema, The Alto Knights arrives on Jio Hotstar on August 21. Directed by Barry Levinson and penned by Nicholas Pileggi, the film dives deep into the gritty underworld of the 1950s. The highlight is Robert De Niro’s dual performance as mob bosses Vito Genovese and Frank Costello, a feat that has already generated strong buzz. The biographical crime drama also features Debra Messing, Cosmo Jarvis, Kathrine Narducci, and Michael Rispoli in key roles. With Levinson’s meticulous storytelling and Pileggi’s sharp writing, The Alto Knights has been touted as a must-watch for fans of mafia dramas. The OTT debut ensures the film reaches a wider global audience, especially those fascinated by real-life crime sagas.

F1 (F1: The Movie) – Prime Video & Apple TV+ – August 22

Sports drama enthusiasts are in for a treat with F1: The Movie, set to release simultaneously on Prime Video and Apple TV+ on August 22. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick, the film offers high-octane thrills and an emotional core.

Hollywood icon Brad Pitt stars as veteran Formula One driver Sonny Hayes, who comes out of retirement after 30 years to rescue his former teammate’s struggling team, APXGP. The movie features intense racing sequences, shot in collaboration with real F1 teams, ensuring authenticity.

The supporting cast includes Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, and Javier Bardem, all of whom bring depth to the story of resilience, mentorship, and redemption. With Ehren Kruger’s screenplay and Kosinski’s signature visual flair, F1 promises to be more than just a sports drama—it’s an inspiring tale of second chances.

The week’s OTT releases highlight the growing diversity of digital entertainment. From Tamil thrillers and Telugu dramas to Hollywood biographical and sports films, there’s something for every taste. While Mareesan and Thalaivan Thalaivii promise gripping regional storytelling, Kothapallilo Okappudu offers a slice of rooted, relatable cinema. Meanwhile, Hollywood brings scale and star power with The Alto Knights and F1.

For audiences, this lineup means a packed week of binge-worthy content. Whether you prefer crime sagas, family dramas, or high-speed racing action, the upcoming OTT premieres ensure that staying in will be just as entertaining as heading to the theatres.