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Sookshmadarshini: Basil Joseph and Nazriya Nazim’s mystery thriller makes OTT debut on Disney+ Hotstar

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Basil Joseph and Nazriya Nazim Fahadh in a scene from Sookshmadarshini, now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar

The much-anticipated black comedy mystery thriller Sookshmadarshini is set to make its digital debut this weekend on Disney+ Hotstar. Directed by MC Jithin and starring Basil Joseph and Nazriya Nazim Fahadh in lead roles, the film was a massive success during its theatrical release in November 2024. Now, audiences can enjoy this gripping narrative from the comfort of their homes starting January 11, 2025.

Streaming in five languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi, Sookshmadarshini is expected to capture a wider audience base with its intriguing storyline and powerful performances. The movie will premiere on Disney+ Hotstar at midnight on January 11, making it an exciting weekend watch for fans of suspense thrillers.

A tale of mystery and suspense

Sookshmadarshini revolves around Priyadarshini (Nazriya Nazim Fahadh), a happy-go-lucky homemaker, who grows suspicious of her new neighbor, Manuel (Basil Joseph), and his mother Grace. Set in a closely-knit housing colony, the film uses its ensemble of quirky characters to build suspense as Priya’s investigation unravels dark secrets about Manuel’s life. The mystery thickens when Grace goes missing, leaving Priya to piece together a puzzle that shocks the entire neighborhood.

The film effectively balances its dark themes with moments of humor and relatable neighborhood dynamics, making it a unique addition to the thriller genre. Director MC Jithin, inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s style of storytelling, masterfully crafts a suspense-filled narrative in a world reminiscent of Sathyan Anthikad’s films, where nosy neighbors and WhatsApp groups drive the story forward.

Powerful performances and strong writing

Nazriya Nazim shines as the determined and resourceful Priyadarshini, while Basil Joseph delivers a haunting performance as the enigmatic Manuel. Deepak Parambol, who plays Priya’s supportive husband Antony, and the ensemble cast featuring Sidharth Bharathan, Akhila Bhargavan, Pooja Mohanraj, Merin Philip, and Manohari Joy add depth to the film.

The screenplay by Athul Ramachandran and Libin TB is a standout element, weaving suspense and intrigue with sharp character arcs and clever twists. Christo Xavier’s haunting original score and songs further enhance the film’s atmosphere, while Sharan Velayudhan’s cinematography captures the claustrophobic yet vibrant world of the housing colony. Editor Chaman Chakko’s tight cuts ensure a gripping pace throughout the film.

A must-watch thriller

Sookshmadarshini is not just a mystery thriller but a masterclass in storytelling that keeps viewers engaged till the very end. The final reveals are crafted to deliver maximum impact, leaving the audience stunned and satisfied. The film’s blend of neighborhood gossip, dark humor, and suspenseful twists has earned it critical acclaim and widespread popularity.For those who missed its theatrical run, Sookshmadarshini is a must-watch on Disney+ Hotstar. Its smart writing, stellar cast, and edge-of-your-seat thrills make it a perfect choice for fans of the genre.

Entertainment

Gaurav Khanna wins Bigg Boss 19, lifts trophy and Rs 50 lakh prize

Gaurav Khanna has been crowned the winner of Bigg Boss 19, securing the trophy and Rs 50 lakh after a competitive finale.

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Television actor Gaurav Khanna has been declared the winner of Bigg Boss 19, bringing the curtain down on a season packed with drama, intense face-offs and emotional moments. He secured the top spot after a closely fought finale, with Farhana Bhatt finishing as the first runner-up.

Gaurav Khanna’s steady game pays off

Premiering on August 24 with 18 contestants, the season showcased shifting alliances, sharp strategies and memorable confrontations. Despite being seen as quiet in the early weeks, Gaurav Khanna gradually emerged as one of the strongest voices inside the house. His composed demeanour and calculated task performance helped him build momentum through the competition.

Farhana Bhatt ends as runner-up

Farhana Bhatt, known for her dynamic presence and determination throughout the season, finished second. Although she narrowly missed the title, her journey remained one of the standout tracks of the show.

Finale eliminations

The grand finale began with multiple eliminations — Amaal Mallik was the first finalist to bow out, followed by Tanya Mittal, and then Pranit More, leaving Gaurav and Farhana as the top two contenders.
Gaurav ultimately lifted the trophy and took home a cash prize of Rs 50 lakh.

With the conclusion of Bigg Boss 19, the show wraps another season marked by strategy, rivalry and heartfelt moments that kept viewers engaged from start to finish.

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Dhurandhar review: Ranveer Singh roars back, Akshaye Khanna shines in intense spy thriller

Ranveer Singh returns with a ferocious performance in Dhurandhar, supported by Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, and a gripping espionage storyline set against real historical events.

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Dhurandhar review

Ranveer Singh makes a striking return to the big screen with Dhurandhar, delivering a fierce, layered performance in Aditya Dhar’s ambitious spy thriller. Blending historical terror incidents with a fictional revenge saga, the film explores India’s covert response to cross-border terrorism through the secret project ‘Dhurandhar’.

A brutal world built around revenge and espionage

Set around the IC-814 Kandahar hijack and the 2001 Parliament attack, Dhurandhar opens with Ajay Sanyal, an Intelligence Bureau officer played by R Madhavan, who strongly opposes releasing captured terrorists. Despite his resistance, bureaucracy prevails, setting the stage for the covert mission he later leads.

The project introduces its central weapon — Humza Ali Mazari, later revealed to be Jaskirat Singh Rangil — portrayed by Ranveer Singh with ferocity and emotional depth. Dropped straight into Karachi’s dangerous Lyari district, Humza navigates a nexus of gangs, politicians, and the ISI, with the narrative also touching upon tensions between local Pakistanis and Baloch communities.

Performances that elevate the film

Akshaye Khanna nearly steals the spotlight as a feared Lyari gangster inspired by Rehman ‘Dakait’ Baloch. Sanjay Dutt’s portrayal of SP Chaudhry Aslam brings an intimidating presence, while Arjun Rampal’s Major Iqbal leaves a lingering impact despite limited screen time.

Sara Arjun plays Yalina with conviction, and the film also features an unrecognisable Gaurav Gera in a surprise appearance.

Music, violence, and a split narrative

Shashwat Sachdev’s background score stands out, weaving classic Pakistani melodies with Indian retro hits to complement the film’s shifting tones. Viewers should be prepared for intense brutality, graphic torture scenes, and sudden shifts in narrative style — especially in a second half that feels markedly different from the first.

The episodic structure, archival footage, and mix of real and fictional characters add layers, though some may find the format distracting.

Ending that sets up part two

While the film does not end on a dramatic cliffhanger, its teaser for the second part — scheduled for March 19, 2026 — ensures audiences will return to witness the conclusion of Humza’s journey.

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Entertainment

120 Bahadur box office day 1: Farhan Akhtar’s film starts slow with Rs 2.35 crore opening

Farhan Akhtar’s new release 120 Bahadur opened to Rs2.35 crore, while De De Pyaar De 2 continued its strong hold on day eight.

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Farhan akhtar

Farhan Akhtar’s latest release 120 Bahadur hit theatres on November 21 but registered a dull opening on its first day, earning Rs 2.35 crore. In comparison, De De Pyaar De 2, which is now in its second week, continues to show stronger hold at the box office.

Slow start for 120 Bahadur on day one

The action-drama opened to modest numbers on Friday, collecting Rs2.35 crore on its first day. Despite pre-release buzz around Farhan Akhtar’s performance, the film has begun its run on the lower side.

De De Pyaar De 2 maintains its advantage

Meanwhile, De De Pyaar De 2 continues its steady run. On its eighth day, the film maintained an edge over 120 Bahadur in overall earnings, according to media. The strong hold of the Ajay Devgn-led sequel appears to have impacted the new release’s opening day business.

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