The second half of September brings a diverse mix of new OTT releases for Indian viewers, from returning favourites and spin-offs to Hindi originals and anthology films. Whether you are looking for a thriller, romance, comedy or an easy weekend binge, there’s plenty arriving across Netflix and Prime Video. Here are six releases to add to your watchlist between September 15 and 30.

Fans of the Reacher universe have another action thriller to dive into with Neagley, centred on Frances Neagley, the former 110 Special Investigators member played by Maria Sten. The eight-episode series follows her as she investigates the suspicious death of someone from her past, taking her into a dangerous conspiracy of her own. 

The animated Stranger Things spin-off returns with another supernatural adventure set in Hawkins. Season 2 brings back the young gang as strange happenings and mysterious creatures disrupt their world around Valentine’s Day. 

One of the month's biggest Indian OTT releases, Lust Stories 3 brings together four filmmakers - Vikramaditya Motwane, Kiran Rao, Shakun Batra and Vishal Bhardwaj - for four separate stories exploring love, intimacy, desire and complicated relationships. The ensemble includes Radhika Apte, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditi Rao Hydari, Vijay Varma and Ali Fazal. 

Parineeti Chopra makes her series debut in this mystery thriller about a mother who has spent nine years searching for her missing child. As the investigation progresses, people closest to her become potential suspects, making trust the central question of the story. 

Produced by Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt, this coming-of-age romantic comedy follows four young people navigating friendship, love, heartbreak, ambition and the uncertainty of growing up. The film introduces Aarushi Bajaj, Ansh Duggal, Bianca Arora and Piyush Khati in the lead roles. 

Kapil Sharma and his much-loved comedy ensemble return for a fifth season just as the festive season gets underway. Sunil Grover, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Archana Puran Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu are back, with new episodes scheduled every Saturday at 8 pm. 

The ongoing fortnight offers something across genres: action with Neagley, supernatural mystery with Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, relationship drama with Lust Stories 3, suspense with Shaque, youthful romance with Don’t Be Shy and family-friendly comedy with The Great Indian Kapil Show. With several titles arriving in the final two weeks of the month, Indian OTT viewers have plenty to add to their weekend watchlists.

Bottom line? September is ready to sign off with something for almost every kind of binge-watcher. Pick your genre, clear your weekend and let the streaming begin.

Following the success of its predecessor, Raid 2 dives deeper into the world of high-stakes corruption and justice. With powerful performances and a gripping narrative, the film delivers a worthy continuation of Amay Patnaik’s relentless mission. So, what's the plot? Officer Amay Patnaik is transferred to Bhoj for his 75th raid, this time targeting a corrupt politician - Manohar Dinkar aka Dada Bhai. As Amay uncovers layers of hidden black money, he faces suspension, but refuses to back down. With support from his team and wife, he brings Dada to justice. The story ends with a tease for Raid 3, hinting at a new alliance and bigger challenges ahead.

Raid 2 is a gripping entertainer that not only lives up to the legacy of its predecessor, but builds on it with confidence and flair. Filmmaker Raj Kumar Gupta returns to the director’s chair with a vision that's both expansive and tightly controlled. He masterfully blends action, drama, and suspense into a narrative that remains engaging throughout its runtime. The story unfolds with a compelling pace, along with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. Dialogues are sharp and impactful, especially in the second half, where emotions run high and the tension peaks. There are several standout moments that genuinely leave the viewer at the edge of their seat, a testament to the film’s strong screenplay.

Ajay Devgn reprises his role as the stoic and unwavering Amay Patnaik, bringing his trademark gravitas to the character. With a performance that is both restrained and powerful, Devgn anchors the film with quiet intensity. His presence lends credibility to the proceedings and reminds us why he remains one of Bollywood’s most dependable stars when it comes to serious, performance-driven roles.

However, it is Riteish Deshmukh who owns the film with his impeccable act. As 'Dada Bhai', he is a revelation. His portrayal of a seemingly noble public figure who harbors a deeply sinister side is both chilling and magnetic. Riteish brings a layered subtlety to the role, crafting a villain who is as charismatic as he is dangerous. His performance is bound to be remembered as one of the film’s strongest assets.

The supporting cast is equally impressive.  Saurabh Shukla makes a comeback, and his character adds some depth to the storyline. Amit Sial's earnest act adds a touch of humour. Vaani Kapoor delivers a confident and effective performance, playing her part with just the right balance of strength and vulnerability. Amit Trivedi’s background score does an excellent job of enhancing the film’s tension without overpowering the scenes. The soundtrack, while not the film’s primary focus, adds emotional resonance at the right moments. For audiences planning to catch the film, a quick revisit of Raid might help set the context, though Raid 2 does a decent job of establishing its own narrative foundation. 

Overall, Raid 2 is a well-crafted sequel that hits the right notes. With packed cinemas and enthusiastic audience reactions, it’s clear that the film has struck a chord. A perfect blend of strong performances, gripping storytelling, and powerful moments.

⭐⭐⭐1/2

Love,

The Dancebee

 Chhaava is a historical drama that delves into the life, times, and legacy of the Maratha Empire and its courageous king, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Led by Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, the film serves as a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience, offering a glimpse into one of India’s most turbulent and defining periods. Chhaava chronicles the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the fearless and resilient son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who led the Maratha Empire during a tumultuous period marked by battles against the Mughal empire. The film portrays his unwavering determination, the sacrifices he made for his kingdom, and his courageous stand against Emperor Aurangzeb, all while exploring the internal conflicts, political intrigue, and personal struggles within the empire. 

In a performance that is as fierce and commanding as the legendary warrior king he portrays, Vicky Kaushal delivers a tour de force in Chhaava, embodying the indomitable spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. From the very first moment he graces the screen, there’s no trace of the actor; there’s only the presence of the King — the warrior, the ruler, the son of the great Shivaji Maharaj. His portrayal is nothing short of monumental. There’s not a single scene where you will Kaushal; instead, you see Sambhaji Raje, the fire in his eyes, the power in his words, and the raw emotion in every gesture. Vicky doesn’t just act; he becomes Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. His commitment to the role is palpable, with each nuance, each line of dialogue imbued with authenticity and soul. His towering presence demands attention, and it’s impossible to look away. He doesn’t just shine, he owns the film, commanding the screen with every step, every word, every battle cry. 

The first half sets the stage for what's to come, but it’s in the second half where things take a solid turn. As the tension rises, the stakes become personal, and Vicky’s performance goes from powerful to transcendent. The final 40 minutes of the film will leave you speechless — a masterclass in raw, emotional, and unrelenting acting. I can’t think of a single soul who will walk out of the theater without a tear in their eye. The emotional weight of Sambhaji Maharaj’s journey, his sacrifice, and his undying courage is felt in every frame. 

A standout performance of the film comes from Akshay Khanna, whose portrayal of the ruthless Emperor Aurangzeb is nothing short of mesmerising. His performance feels effortless, as he sinks deep into the character, embodying the cold, calculating nature of the emperor with subtlety and precision. His ability to capture the complexity of Aurangzeb—ruthless in his ambitions yet burdened by his own fears and insecurities—adds layers to the character, making him far more than just a historical villain.  Khanna delivers a masterclass in acting, and his portrayal will be remembered for years to come.

 The ensemble cast also delivers some remarkable performances. Vineet Kumar’s portrayal of Kavi Kalash is one of the most memorable aspects of the film. His nuanced and understated performance brings depth and complexity to the character, making him an essential part of the narrative. Ashutosh Rana essays Sarlashkar Hambhirrao Mohite, who stands tall with his bravery and courage. Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai performs admirably within the scope of her role. Mandanna adds a touch of grace and emotional depth to every scene she graces. The film beautifully depicts the love story between Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his wife Yesubai, highlighting his deep respect for women, and admiration for his beloved 'Shri Sakhi', making their bond an emotional anchor in the narrative.

While the film shines with its stellar performances, there are a few areas that could have done with some improvement. The soundtrack, unfortunately, fails to match the grandeur of the period drama. Also, the background score feels jarring at times, especially in sequences that demand a more powerful and culturally fitting musical backdrop. For a film set during the Maratha empire, the score leans too heavily on a Mughal-inspired sound, which fails to capture the pulse of the Marathi heartland. Tracks like “Jaane Tu” and “Toofan” do little to elevate the film’s emotional tone. In scenes such as Kaushal’s grand entry in Burhanpore or the coronation sequence; a more vibrant, traditional score infused with the beats of Maharashtrian dhol and tasha would have been ideal. Unfortunately, the music does not add much value and could have been a lot more immersive.

The film’s editing, too, leaves something to be desired. Some scenes feel unnecessarily abrupt, especially when transitioning between the Maratha and Mughal narratives. For example, a scene focusing on the Marathas strategizing is followed by a jarring cut to the Mughals discussing their own plans. The pacing also suffers in the first half, which tends to feel a bit dragged. Fortunately, the second half compensates for these issues, with the climactic 40 minutes of the film offering an intense emotional rollercoaster. The final act—brilliantly shot and emotionally charged—takes the film to new heights, leaving you overwhelmed with awe, pride, and heartbreak. The emotional impact of the conclusion is so profound that it is impossible to leave the auditorium without being moved to tears. 

In conclusion, Chhaava is a must-watch for its glorious depiction of the Maratha Empire and the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. While there are a few areas where the film could have been improved—namely the music, background score, and editing—the performances and the breathtaking climax more than make up for it. Also, for too long, Hindi cinema has lacked an action hero who can take on such larger-than-life roles with the kind of conviction and intensity Kaushal brings to this character. He is not just playing a role; he is honouring a legacy, a legacy that deserves to be seen, felt, and celebrated. 

Vicky Kaushal has not only given us a performance for the ages, but he has also immortalised the spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in a way that will resonate for generations to come. A film that honours the rich legacy of the Maratha Empire and the unsung heroes who shaped its destiny; Chhaava is a cinematic journey that will resonate with audiences long after they’ve left the theatre.  This is cinema at its finest — raw, real, and filled with the fire of a king who will never be forgotten. 

Glory to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj!

Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2

Love,

The Dancebee

 What happens when newlyweds Koyal and Veer navigate through a series of comedic and action-packed events - that too, on their wedding night? Well, you get Dhoom Dhaam. Helmed by Rishabh Seth, the film stars Yami Gautam and Pratik Gandhi (now streaming on Netflix), offers an entertaining blend of romance, comedy, and a dash of action. The movie, while not groundbreaking in its narrative, delivers an enjoyable ride with its charm and fun-filled moments. The premise revolves around two strangers who are brought together by the threads of love and marriage. As expected, the film explores the dynamics between them, with a healthy dose of comedic mishaps and heartwarming moments.

One of the film's standout features is the portrayal of the female lead, played by Yami Gautam. Her character Koyal is strong, confident, and savvy, which brings depth to the film, especially as she challenges typical rom-com tropes. Gautam’s performance keeps the story grounded and makes her character a compelling presence throughout. Oh, and do watch out for her monologue! Gandhi, as the charming but somewhat unsure groom Veer, offers a refreshing contrast to Gautam's more assertive character, which creates a dynamic and engaging relationship. Veer's phobias and conservatism can be grating, but it is his disposition and evolution that provide the most comedy. Their rather unusual chemistry adds another layer of appeal to the film. 

Although the story is predictable, both the acting and the writing are impressive. The narrative at times feels a bit inconsistent, with the film hopping from one comedic situation to the next, without always building a solid connection. This lack of a strong, cohesive plot line does impact the overall experience, leaving the film feeling more like a series of rushed moments, rather than a well-rounded story.

That said, thisis a light-hearted romantic comedy that doesn’t require deep emotional investment. It’s a perfect pick for a casual movie night when you're in the mood for something fun and easy to digest. The film does have some standout moments, from laugh-out-loud comedic exchanges to touching romantic gestures, making it a pleasant watch. While not the most profound film, it serves its purpose as an entertaining and easy-going escape.

Overall, Dhoom Dhaam is a breezy, feel-good film with some good performances, especially by Gautam, It is an enjoyable watch for anyone looking for a light, entertaining film to unwind with.

Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐

Love,

The Dancebee

 The trailer for Singham Again (launched earlier today) marks a thrilling expansion of Rohit Shetty's renowned cop universe, promising an action-packed spectacle that’s both bigger and bolder. Ajay Devgn returns as the iconic Bajirao Singham, and the excitement is amplified by the film’s star-studded cast.Deepika Padukone makes a striking entry as 'Shakthi Shetty' aka Lady Singham - likely a fierce ally to Singham, bringing a new dynamic to the narrative. Kareena Kapoor Khan reprises her role as Avni, injecting an emotional layer into the story. Together, they enhance the film’s dramatic stakes.

The trailer also teases pivotal roles for Ranveer Singh and Akshay Kumar, further elevating the ensemble. With their charismatic performances intertwined in this action drama, fans can expect electrifying interactions and thrilling confrontations. Adding to the star power, Tiger Shroff’s entry promises to take the cast to another level, hinting at high-energy sequences that will resonate with action aficionados. Moreover, Arjun Kapoor will be seen in a negative role, taking over as a baddie (influenced by Raavana).

Rohit Shetty’s signature style shines through, combining intense action, humor, and engaging storytelling, all set against a backdrop of pressing social issues. The dynamic between these powerhouse actors is sure to create a mass-level craze, appealing to a wide audience.

Overall, Singham Again is poised to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience that capitalises on its robust star power and Shetty’s proven formula. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh narratives, the film is set to receive a thunderous response when it hits theaters, solidifying its place within the ever-expanding cop universe. Fans of the franchise and action enthusiasts alike will be eager to witness this exciting new chapter unfold. Aaya police with a dhamakedaar Diwali release? We clearly think so.

Love,

Dancebee

You know what's the power of a good film? The fact that it feels like a festival at the cinemas, and not just any other film that the audience is out to watch on the bring screen (only to bring out their phones and play candy crush in the middle of a crucial scene). Nope, you won't get to see such things around you, because that very person is most likely to break into a dance when 'Zinda Banda' plays. Well, that's Jawan for you. Good ol' entertainment with full-on mass vibes! 

And if the record breaking collections (so far) are anything to go by, the film is steadily turning out to be one of 2023's biggest blockbusters. Well, as cinegoers, some of you may have seen the film already. And if not, you ideally don’t need any reason to go watch #Jawan (because YOU MUST). But, if you are someone who isn't too sure or has contemplated booking their tickets, here are 5 reasons why you must go out there and watch Atlee's Bollywood directorial debut:

The magic of SRK

Nobody does it like ‘King Khan’. Period! Shah Rukh Khan puts his heart & soul in a character, and his charm is unmatched. But with #Jawan - be prepared to expect the unexpected. There is a reason why he truly is the ‘last of the superstars’. Jawan feels like a festival at the cinemas, and SRK is THE GOD! You gotta see it to believe it.

The Women of Jawan take things a notch higher. Boss Lady Nayanthara steals the show. Her portrayal of ‘Narmada’ is powerful and packs a punch. That swag is just something else. Also, her chemistry with SRK is just so refreshing and lovely! Chief’s army including Sanya Malhotra, Priya Mani, Girija Oak Joshi & co were simply fab. Their backstory is crucial, and will leave you feeling numb. Ridhi Dogra too delivers in a small, but pivotal role. Of course, this appreciation is incomplete without the mention of Deepika Padukone’s impactful cameo. And clearly, nobody does it like her. Roughly 20 mins of screen time and yet, she leaves a mark with her impeccable performance! Plus, some good ol' Padukone-Khan chemistry. At its core, Jawan also celebrates Women and their unstoppable will to fight against all odds.

The technical aspects of the film are something to watch out for as well.

Anirudh Ravichander's Bollywood debut is impressive. The man, who recently delivered the chartbuster 'Jailer' soundtrack, has delivered yet again with a powerful album. Songs like Zinda Banda, Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya make you wanna get up and Dance (for real), while Chaleya is so dreamy and beautiful! Plus, the choreography is a big hit, with hook steps becoming popular among dance enthusiasts and fans. I quite liked the hook steps and overall presentation of these songs. My favourite has got to be #NotRamaiyaVastavaiya on the big screen (won’t share spoilers, but stay back during end credits. Vikram Rathore NAILS it). Anirudh's BGM creates a strong impact - especially with all those smashing SRK entries. G.K Vishnu's cinematography is a visual treat! Ruben's editing is crisp and sharp. This one’s a complete team effort!!

Well, I guess those reasons are enough for you to go out there and enjoy this larger than life film on the big screen. This is Shah Rukh Khan's revival of Bollywood's good ol’ Angry Young Man, in his own unique, impressive style. Something that will be remembered for a long, long time!

And, if these reasons aren’t enough - go watch it for SRK as #VikramRathore. Period!

PS: While I talk about the strengths, I must add - Vijay Sethupathi as Kaali has a strong screen presence and performs well (my only concern was that his character could've been sketched out in a better way. There was a lot of potential).

Have you watched Jawan? What are your honest thoughts? Do share your comments or join the conversation on Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat | Instagram | YouTube