October 2025 proved to be a pivotal month for ZEE5, showcasing the platform’s unwavering commitment to regional diversity and a strategic pivot towards high-concept originals that prioritise story over star power. With a massive slate of numerous releases (licensed and originals), the streamer navigated the festive season by offering audiences a rich mix of languages and genres.
Here are some of the top titles that ZEE5 offered to its viewers in October 2025!
Dukaan Da Munda (October 2, 2025)
The film was received as a successful and gritty conclusion to the trilogy. Reviewers commended its unfiltered portrayal of addiction, corruption, and structural exploitation, solidifying the franchise’s reputation for authentic, ground-up storytelling.
Checkmate (October 2, 2025)
Critics have praised Checkmate’s gripping mystery-thriller structure, ambitious non-linear narrative, and stylish cinematography. However, some of the acting performances and sloppy dialogue have received strong criticisms from viewers.
Veduvan (October 10, 2025)
The Tamil series Veduvan has received mixed reviews from both critics and viewers. The story, about an actor researching an encounter specialist cop and uncovering a controversial hidden truth, is praised for its intriguing concept and a strong performance by lead Kanna Ravi. However, many have blamed its rushed and timid script as one of the key factors stopping it from becoming something special. While it’s an easy-to-consume thriller, the lack of depth and uneven writing dilute its potential for a compelling, thought-provoking drama.
Akshardham: Operation Vajra Dham (October 10, 2025)
The ZEE5 Original film, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti, emerged as one of the platform’s biggest critical wins of the month. Drawing inspiration from a heroic real-life counter-terrorism operation, the film succeeded by focusing on procedural detail and tactical execution rather than melodrama. Critics praised its lean, under-two-hour runtime and the decision to keep the action clean and readable.
Madam Sengupta (October 17, 2025)
Madam Sengupta, despite benefitting from strong lead performances, was criticised for its poor making and direction. Critics argue the director lacked a clear vision, resulting in a disjointed plot and weak writing that failed to honour its subject (Sukumar Roy).
Elumale (October 17, 2025)
Viewers have hailed it as a gripping, emotionally rich thriller blending a tender love story, historical crime (loosely based on Operation Cocoon), and local folklore. The film’s non-linear narrative and use of the Mahadeshwara Hills setting were praised, with cinematography often called a masterpiece. Reviewers commended the strong, realistic acting and D. Imman’s music, recommending it as a must-watch Kannada banger.
Bhagwat Chapter 1: Raakshas (October 17, 2025)
Bhagwat received mostly mixed-to-positive responses, with particular praise aimed at the performances of Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar, especially the electric and intense interrogation scenes between them. However, some viewers also unfavourably compared it to Dahaad. It’s recommended as a watchable, gritty small-town procedural.
Aabhyanthara Kuttavaali (October 17, 2025)
Critics panned the film for being misguided and regressive while attempting to discuss men’s rights. Reviewers stated the movie oversimplified a sensitive subject, primarily focusing on the misuse of Section 498A (anti-dowry law) while ignoring widespread domestic abuse. The film was also criticised for its preachy writing, poor character depth, and generalising men’s conduct, ultimately failing to deliver a balanced or impactful narrative.
Kishkindhapuri (October 17, 2025)
The Telugu horror thriller was praised for its strong storytelling, suspense, and the commendable performances of the lead actors. However, critics noted that the film is held back by a lack of emotional depth, inconsistent pacing, and weak technical execution. While the background score and cinematography received some appreciation, issues with the screenplay and overall execution prevented it from being a truly great film.
Maarigallu (October 17, 2025)
The series Maarigallu received mixed to positive reviews. It was commended for delivering satisfying suspense, featuring a strong story, and showcasing commendable performances by the lead actors. The background score and cinematography were also noted as highlights. However, some felt the series was hindered by a lack of emotional depth and issues with uneven pacing.
Ganoshotru (October 31, 2025)
The 2025 Bengali ZEE5 anthology series, Ganoshotru, presents five true crime stories detailing the rise of the West Bengal underworld. Critics largely commended the series for its relevant, documentary-style approach and its focus on the investigative process rather than just the sensationalism of the crimes. However, reviews did note that the series suffers from slow pacing and, at times, simplistic characterisation.
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