Although the pandemic induced lockdown guidelines have been partially relaxed in some parts of the country, there is still apprehension amongst cine-goers to watch movies in theatres.
Moreover, recently many Bollywood movies like the big-ticket film ‘Radhe’ starring superstar Salman Khan had opted for an OTT release (hybrid strategy). While the postponed Farhan Akhtar film ‘Toofaan’ is already geared up for an OTT release on Amazon Prime Video.
Filmmakers are working out release strategies for the films which have already wrapped production or are about to complete. Considering the present circumstances, here is a list of five Bollywood films that might opt for a possible OTT release.
1. Rashmi Rocket
It was recently reported by a few entertainment websites that the makers of the Taapsee Pannu starrer film ‘Rashmi Rocket’ are reportedly in talks with streaming platforms. So, we might expect some news regarding the film’s OTT release in a few days.
The film’s first motion poster was revealed back in August 2019 and the sports drama film is ostensibly about a sprinter named Rashmi (played by Taapsee Pannu) from Rann of Kutch. The film also features Priyanshu Painyuli in a prominent role.
2. Satyamev Jayate 2
A spiritual sequel to the 2018 film ‘Satyamev Jayate’ will feature Bollywood hunk John Abraham in a double role. Directed by Milap Zaveri, the film had reportedly wrapped up the shoot in January 2021.
Earlier the film was planned for an Eid release. However, the release date was postponed due to the pandemic situation. The film also features Divya Khosla Kumar, Harsh Chhaya, Anup Soni, and Gautami Kapoor.
3. Jhund
This Amitabh Bachchan starrer biographical sports drama film is reportedly based on the life of the founder of NGO Slum Soccer Vijay Barse. The legendary actor is said to essay the role of a professor who encourages street children to form a football team. The film has been directed by Nagraj Manjule.
As per the film’s poster, ‘Jhund’ is scheduled to release in cinemas on June 18, 2021. But considering the present pandemic situation, the makers might either postpone the release date or may opt for a direct OTT release. We’ll get to know in a few days what release strategy the makers adopt.
4. Shabaash Mithu
Talented actress Taapsee Pannu plays the role of the woman’s Indian National cricket team captain Mithali Raj in this biographical sports film directed by Rahul Dholakia.
Taapsee Pannu’s psychological thriller film ‘Haseen Dillruba’ is already slated to release on the Netflix streaming platform. However, it remains to be seen whether ‘Shabaash Mithu’ will also take the OTT route or not.
5. Aadhaar
The much-anticipated dramedy film by filmmaker Suman Ghosh was scheduled to release in February 2021. However, there has been no news regarding the film’s Indian release since then.
The film follows the story of a villager (played by Vineet Kumar Singh) who becomes the first person in his village to enroll for Aadhaar card. The film also features acclaimed actors like Saurabh Shukla, Raghuvir Yadav, and Sanjay Mishra. If the pandemic situation persists, the makers might opt for a direct OTT release for the film, depending on the circumstances.