Must watch OTT releases this week: ‘The Exorcist,’ ‘Identity,’ ‘Pushpa 2’ and more

Streaming platforms are bringing a fresh lineup of movies and shows this week, spanning multiple genres. From spine-chilling horror to intense action thrillers, there's something for everyone. Here’s a look at the top releases coming to various OTT platforms.

The Exorcist

Though it hit theatres in 2023, this installment of ‘The Exorcist’ franchise is finally making its way to OTT. Known for its terrifying and gruesome storytelling, the film follows a father’s desperate fight to save his daughter and her friend, both of whom exhibit eerie signs of demonic possession. As he seeks a solution, he turns to a parent who encountered a similar supernatural horror five decades ago, hoping to bring the girls back to normalcy. ‘The Exorcist’ will release on Netflix on February 6.

Identity

The Malayalam action thriller ‘Identity’ stars Tovino Thomas, Trisha Krishnan, Vinay Rai, Shammi Thilakan, Aju Varghese, and Archana Kavi in key roles. The story revolves around a cop and a sketch artist teaming up to identify a mysterious and elusive killer. Their only lead? The memory of an eyewitness who recalls the criminal’s face. With a compelling plot, gripping action sequences, and a star-studded cast, the film has generated significant buzz. ‘Identity’ will release on January 31 on Zee5.

Pushpa 2 

The much-anticipated sequel to ‘Pushpa: The Rise,’ this action-packed drama continues the journey of Pushpa Raj, played by Allu Arjun. Rising through the ranks of the red sandalwood smuggling trade, he faces powerful adversaries, including police officer Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), who is determined to dismantle his empire. With Rashmika Mandanna reprising her role as Srivalli and a strong supporting cast, ‘Pushpa 2’ has already made its mark as one of the highest-grossing Indian films. The film is currently streaming on Netflix.

The Secret of the Shiledars 

This historical drama features Rajeev Khandelwal, Sai Tamhankar, Gaurav Amlani, and Ashish Vidyarthi. The plot follows Dr. Ravi Bhatt, whose unexpected encounter with a judge propels him into a quest to uncover a lost treasure linked to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The series delves deep into the rich history of the Maratha Empire, highlighting themes of bravery, loyalty, and legacy. Based on the book Pratipaschandra by Dr. Prakash Koyade, this show offers a blend of history and adventure. The drama will start streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from January 31.

You’re Cordially Invited 

This comedy film revolves around two families whose dream weddings get accidentally scheduled at the same remote island resort on the same day. Jim (Will Ferrell), a widowed father preparing for his daughter Jenni’s (Geraldine Viswanathan) wedding, and Margot (Reese Witherspoon), a reality TV executive planning her sister Neve’s (Meredith Hagner) nuptials, must navigate the chaos of this unexpected mix-up. With hilarious misunderstandings and comedic conflicts, the film guarantees laughter and entertainment. The film is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

The Recruit: Season 2 

The espionage thriller ‘The Recruit’ returns for its second season, with Noah Centineo reprising his role as CIA lawyer Owen Hendricks. This time, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous mission in South Korea, uncovering secrets that suggest the biggest threats may be within his own agency. Picking up from the intense finale of Season 1, where Owen and former CIA asset Max Meladze (Laura Haddock) were abducted, the new season introduces fresh faces like Teo Yoo, Young-Ah Kim, Felix Solis, and James Purefoy, while bringing back familiar characters. The film is currently streaming on Netflix.

Lucca’s World 

This heartwarming drama follows Bárbara (played by Bárbara Mori), a devoted mother trying to improve the life of her son, Lucca (Julián Tello), who suffers from severe cerebral palsy. Determined to find a breakthrough, she and her husband Andrés (Juan Pablo Medina) embark on a journey to India to explore an experimental therapy that could potentially restore Lucca’s neural connections. Based on The Two Hemispheres of Lucca by Bárbara Anderson, this film tells an emotional and inspiring story of a family’s unwavering love and determination. The film will start streaming on Netflix from January 31.