New year, new stories, and new protagonists lighting up the silver screen—this week is a celebration of the magic of cinema in all its forms. There's something for everyone from a thrilling superhero showdown and an engaging action-adventure to a suspenseful thriller, timeless romance, laugh-out-loud comedy, and nostalgic classics. Whether you’re excited about Marvel’s antiheroes, intrigued by a gripping mystery, or eager to revisit beloved classics, the big screen is the perfect escape this week. Don’t miss out!
Kraven the Hunter
Kraven the Hunter brings Marvel Comics' iconic character to the big screen. The film blends superhero and antihero elements. Although Kraven has been part of the Marvel world for decades, this film marks Kraven's cinematic debut as a lead character, thus introducing a new face to Sony's Spider-Man Universe (SSU) as its sixth instalment. Fans might remember a brief nod to Kraven in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), but his full story unfolds here.
The film explores Kraven's beginnings, tracing his transformation from a son grappling with his father's relentless cruelty to a vengeful hunter driven by an insatiable desire to be the best. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, as Kraven, brings intensity to the performance.
Directed by J.C. Chandor and starring Russell Crowe as Nikolai (Kraven's father), the story goes deep into the father-son troubled dynamic. The plot point sets the stage for Kraven's evolution into a feared and formidable figure in the SSU. The film, releasing in India in English, Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil, is a gripping introduction to one of Marvel's most intriguing characters and isn't a film to be missed in the theatres.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
The unstoppable blue hedgehog is turbocharging his way into theatres with Sonic 3, the latest chapter in Sega's wildly popular movie franchise. Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails face their toughest challenge yet as they take on Shadow, a mysterious and menacing figure whose powers defy everything they've encountered. With the odds stacked against them, they turn to an unexpected ally—leading to dramatic confrontations and thrilling alliances.
Directed by Jeff Fowler, who has successfully helmed the series so far, Sonic 3 boasts a creative team of Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington behind the script. The film showcases stunning animation, action-packed sequences, and plenty of humour for all ages. The star-studded cast includes Jim Carrey, back in his eccentric glory as Dr. Robotnik, alongside Ben Schwartz as Sonic's irreverent voice. And, as if that wasn't enough star power, Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba voice key characters, bringing gravitas to this action-packed family favourite. Gamers will relish this latest Sonic adventure, which blends the series' signature speed with an emotionally resonant story. Don't miss it in the theatres this week.
Identity
For those who love edge-of-your-seat suspense, Identity is the film to watch. The Malayalam thriller reunites Tovino Thomas with director duo Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, the team behind the gripping Forensic. Joining Tovino is Trisha Krishnan, making her much-awaited return to Malayalam cinema after a long break.
The story kicks off with a murder in broad daylight, shaking the community. Tovino plays Haran Shankar, a skilled sketch artist who joins forces with ACP Allen Jacob (Vinay Rai) to track down the killer. Using his artistic talent to piece together the killer's face, Haran uncovers a shocking truth: the suspect is someone powerful, deeply connected, and dangerously untouchable. As they dig deeper into the mystery, they're met with chilling threats and hidden secrets; of course, there is much drama and action.
Identity promises to deliver suspense, action, and unexpected twists, all set against the backdrop of a meticulously crafted murder investigation. It's the kind of thriller that keeps you hooked until the last frame. Go watch it in theatres!
Re-Releases That Will Warm Your Heart
Feeling nostalgic? Two beloved films are back in theatres, promising a chance to recreate their magic on the big screen:
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Ayan Mukerji's 2013 Bollywood blockbuster, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, is back. The film offers a timeless exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery. It follows Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor), a free-spirited travel enthusiast, and Naina (Deepika Padukone), a reserved yet ambitious young woman, as they navigate their evolving relationship through life's twists and turns. Featuring iconic performances from Aditya Roy Kapur and Kalki Koechlin, stunning locales from Manali to Paris, and an unforgettable soundtrack by Pritam, this is a quintessential experience for fans of romance and adventure. Doesn't matter if it's your first time watching it or your tenth, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani will hit you in the feels.
Ustaad Hotel
This 2012 Malayalam classic with a cult following, directed by Anwar Rasheed and written by Anjali Menon, returns with its heartfelt tale of food, family, and finding your purpose. Dulquer Salmaan shines as Faizi, a young chef torn between his dreams of working in a five-star hotel and his grandfather's small but soulful eatery. The late Thilakan delivers a career-defining performance as the wise and loving patriarch, while the film's rich culinary visuals and soulful soundtrack create a sensory feast for viewers. Beyond its delicious aesthetics, Ustaad Hotel is a poignant commentary on the value of community, heritage, and passion. With the recent surge of interest in Malayalam cinema, the re-release of Ustaad Hotel couldn't be more timely. Whether revisiting it or discovering it for the first time, this gem is an absolute must-watch when it hits the theatres this week.
Sardaar Ji
Get ready to laugh out loud as Sardaar Ji, the iconic Punjabi comedy, makes its way back to theatres. This 2015 blockbuster brings the perfect mix of quirky humour, heartwarming romance, and supernatural antics. Diljit Dosanjh plays Jaggi, a ghost hunter with a unique talent for trapping spirits in bottles. But things get hilariously complicated when he's sent to capture a feisty ghost, played by Neeru Bajwa, and falls in love with her instead. Directed by Rohit Jugraj, this film is a riot of laughs and colourful chaos. Dosanjh's charm, perfect comedic timing, and Bajwa's stellar performance make Sardaar Ji a delightful watch. Add to that a catchy soundtrack and playful twists, and you've got a movie that's just as entertaining now as it was on its original release. It is guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.
