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.

 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 much-anticipated second half of Emily in Paris Season 4 (Part II) is here (on Netflix), and it delivers a delightful mix of drama, romance, and fashion that fans have come to love. Continuing Emily Cooper's (Lily Collins) journey through the enchanting streets of Paris—and predominantly in Rome—this part of the season dives deeper into the complexities of love, friendship, and career ambitions, all while maintaining the show's signature charm.

As we pick up from the cliffhangers of the first half, Emily finds herself navigating the fallout from her choices, particularly regarding her relationships with Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) and Alfie (Lucien Laviscount). As the complexities intensify, viewers are treated to a deeper exploration of the emotional stakes involved. Collins brings a fresh intensity to Emily’s character, skilfully portraying her internal struggles as she attempts to balance her heart's desires with her professional aspirations.

A major highlight of Part II is how Emily meets Marcello (Giorgio Pasotti), and her escapade to Rome. This trip not only provides a picturesque backdrop but also serves as a pivotal moment for Emily’s character development. Marcello introduces her to a new way of viewing life and love, igniting a whirlwind romance that offers both excitement and complexity. Their flirtation is electric, and the vibrant Roman setting elevates the stakes, presenting a stark contrast to her tangled relationships in Paris.

Sylvie (Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu) also takes center stage in this season, showcasing her own growth as she navigates the challenges of leadership and personal ambition. Her character grapples with the tensions of running a business while dealing with her own vulnerabilities. Sylvie’s evolving relationship with Emily moves from rivalry to a grudging respect, adding depth to their dynamic. Viewers witness her strength and determination, making her a compelling character to follow as she strives for authenticity in a demanding industry.

On the other hand, Genevieve (Kate Walsh) can be quite annoying this season, adding a layer of frustration to Emily's already complicated life. Her meddling tendencies create tension and humor, but at times it feels like her character is more of a hurdle than a help. This dynamic serves to highlight Emily’s resilience as she navigates her relationships, both personal and professional. The twists keep getting trickier as the plot unfolds, especially regarding Emily’s career decisions and her romantic entanglements. Each episode builds on the last, introducing new challenges that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The stakes are higher than ever, making for a riveting viewing experience that balances humour with genuine emotional moments. However, some moments can feel a bit sluggish, slowing the pace at times despite the overall charm of the characters and the brilliant locale (even in Rome).

Fashion remains a crucial element in Emily in Paris. The costume design by Patricia Field is nothing short of breathtaking, with each outfit meticulously crafted to reflect the characters’ personalities and emotional states. Emily's wardrobe is as vibrant and eclectic as ever, offering a visual feast that perfectly complements the Parisian and Roman backdrops. The fashion choices are not just eye candy; they serve as a storytelling device, reflecting Emily's growth and her evolving identity in the city.

Overall, Emily in Paris Season 4 Part II is a stylish and satisfying continuation of Emily’s journey. With strong performances, stunning fashion, and a well-crafted narrative, this half of the season encapsulates the essence of the series while providing fresh insights into its beloved characters. The finale ties up various storylines while leaving room for potential future adventures, offering a sense of closure while keeping the door open for more. Excitingly, Emily in Paris will be back for a fifth season, promising more escapades and fashion-forward moments. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just catching up, this season offers a delightful blend of romance, humor, and inspiration that is sure to leave you yearning for more Parisian and Roman adventures. Grab your favourite popcorn, and settle in for this captivating ride!

Love,

Dancebee