From highly acclaimed sequels to action-packed dramas, this week features an exciting array of movies and series to binge-watch.
THEATRE RELEASES
1. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Release date: May 23
The fifth instalment of the Mad Max franchise, 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga', is set to hit theatres this week. Set in the wilderness of the dystopian Wasteland, this action-packed movie serves as a prequel to the 2015 film 'Mad Max: Fury Road'. Get ready to witness the thrilling adventure of the titular character, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, as she searches to reclaim her lost childhood, mother, and homeland. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and directed by Australian filmmaker George Miller, the movie promises not to disappoint Mad Max fans. The film also stars Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke, and Lachy Hulme in pivotal roles.
2. Turbo
Release date: May 23
After the mass action entertainer 'Bheeshma Parvam', Mammootty is back with 'Turbo'. Directed by Vysakh and penned by Midhun Manuel Thomas, Mammootty portrays Turbo Jose. The trailer shows Mammootty in intense action scenes, clashing with the villain. Kannada actor Raj B. Shetty and Telugu comedian Sunil make their Mollywood debuts in this film. This marks the third collaboration between Mammootty and Vysakh, following Pokkiri Raja (2010) and its spin-off, Madhura Raja (2019). The star-studded cast, including Anjana Jayaprakash, Shabareesh Varma, Dileesh Pothan, Bindu Panicker, and Kabir Duhan Singh, looks promising.
3. Thalavan
Release date: May 24
This upcoming Malayalam language thriller, directed by Jis Joy, revolves around an investigation at a local police station. Featuring Biju Menon, Asif Ali, Miya George, Anusree, Dileesh Pothan, and Kottayam Nazeer in lead roles, the film explores the hierarchy within the police force through the characters of CI Jayashankar (Biju Menon) and SI Karthik (Asif Ali). The power struggle and tension between the characters, accentuated by Deepak Dev’s music, promise an engaging cinematic experience. Debutants Anand Thervarkatt and Sharath Perumbavoor serve as the screenplay writers for this drama-packed crime thriller.
OTT RELEASES
1. Dune: Part Two
Release date: May 21
Streaming platform: Jio Cinema
After a record-breaking theatrical run, Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic 'Dune: Part Two' is arriving on streaming platforms. This visually stunning adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic novel picks up where the first part left off, following Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as he joins forces with the Fremen of Arrakis. The star-studded cast expands in this sequel, with Zendaya returning alongside newcomers like Florence Pugh and Austin Butler. Dune: Part Two offers a groundbreaking visual experience, created by the Oscar-winning team behind Blade Runner 2049 and First Man. The film promises a truly immersive cinematic experience with well-crafted alien worlds, futuristic spaceships, monstrous sandworms, and energy shields.
2. Marvel Studios: Assembled The Making of X-Men '97
Release date: May 22
Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar
'Marvel Studios: Assembled: The Making of X-Men ’97' is an engaging docuseries that delves into the behind-the-scenes of the beloved animated series. Produced by Marvel Studios, this anthology takes viewers on a journey through the creative process, showcasing the collaboration between filmmakers, cast, and crew. Witness how the iconic X-Men universe comes to life from concept to completion on Disney+ Hotstar on May 22.
3. Pauline
Release date: May 22
Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar
In the supernatural fantasy series 'Pauline', the titular 18-year-old character, played by Sira Anna Faal, faces unexpected challenges after a one-night stand with Lucas, portrayed by Ludger Bokelmann. Little does she know that he is the son of the devil. Her accidental pregnancy grants Pauline supernatural powers, setting the stage for a clash between good and evil. As she struggles to grapple with her newfound abilities and a devilish lover, viewers are drawn into a thrilling coming-of-age tale. Directed by Arabella Bartsch, Alma Buddecke, and Facundo Scalerandi, and written by Sebastian Colley, Pauline promises magic, intrigue, and suspense.
4. The Kardashians – Season 5
Release date: May 23
Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar
The Kardashian-Jenner family is back with more action, taking viewers from the big screen to baby bliss. The sisters can't seem to keep their commitment to slow down after all! Expect drama, career pursuits, and personal challenges as the sisters navigate their busy lives. With Kim in her “actress era,” Kourtney enjoying the last days of her pregnancy, Khloe embracing her independence, and the Jenner sisters rising in the world of fashion, Season 5 has something for everyone. Don’t miss the drama of how momager Kris shocks her family.
5. Atlas
Release date: May 24
Streaming platform: Netflix
J.Lo's high-octane adventure film 'Atlas' is set to premiere on Netflix. This American sci-fi film revolves around humanity’s apprehension and anxiety about the power wielded by AI. Lopez plays Agent Atlas Shepherd, a government data analyst, who is on a mission to capture an Artificial Intelligence named Harlan and lands on an unknown planet. She has no choice but to trust another computer program for survival. The film is directed by Brad Peyton, renowned for his signature style that involves enthralling visuals.
6. Crew
Release date: May 24 (Expected)
Streaming platform: Netflix
The comic thriller 'Crew', starring Bollywood divas Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon, is more than frivolous laughter. Directed by Rajesh A. Krishnan, this female-led entertainer takes us through the lives of three hardworking air hostesses. With elements of humour, glamour, and falsehoods, the film shines a light on the often-overlooked struggles of cabin crew, particularly women. The three protagonists find themselves in a knee-deep puddle of lies, and the rest of the film features their attempts to untangle the mess. The presence of Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma makes for a light-hearted and breezy experience.
7. Aadujeevitham - The Goat Life
Release date: May 26
Streaming platform: Disney+ Hotstar
The much-anticipated box office hit 'Aadujeevitham - The Goat Life' is all set to arrive on streaming platforms. Blessy’s 16-year-old project is based on Benyamin’s 2008 novel of the same name. The gut-wrenching tale of Najeeb’s hardship amid an unfamiliar wilderness with only creatures for companionship captures the real ordeal of many migrant workers who toiled away their lives in foreign lands. With Amala Paul, K. R. Gokul, Santhosh Keezhattoor, and Shobha Mohan in supporting roles, Haitian actor Jimmy Jean-Louis makes his Mollywood debut as the godsend Ibrahim Khadiri. Apart from the cinematographic brilliance, the background score composed by A.R. Rahman breathes life and soul into this survival drama.
