Baaghi 4 to Bhagwat Chapter1: Raakshas & more: OTT & theatrical releases for what to watch this weekend

This weekend brings a little something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate entertainment guide on what to watch and where to catch it.

Published: Thursday,Oct 16, 2025 12:15 PM GMT+05:30

Divya Shah

Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas (Zee5)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uBy1gkgWxQ

Kicking off the weekend with a dark and gripping crime thriller, Bhagwat – Chapter 1: Raakshas is a Hindi-language film that takes viewers deep into the underbelly of Robertsganj, Uttar Pradesh. Directed by Akshay Shere, the story follows Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Poonam.

What starts as a missing person case soon unravels into a complex web involving a prostitution racket, revealing shocking secrets and sinister connections in the small town. Along the way, Bhagwat encounters Sameer, a seemingly calm college professor with a hidden side that could hold key answers. The film blends intense investigation, twists, and morally grey characters to keep you glued to the screen. Perfect for fans of crime thrillers who enjoy slow-burning tension.

(Streaming on Zee5 from October 17)

Santosh (Lionsgate Play)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpIg3o_iSng

If you’re looking for a film that combines real-world issues with compelling storytelling, Santosh is a must-watch. Directed by Sandhya Suri, this Hindi-language crime drama is set in rural north India and tells the story of a widow who inherits her late husband’s role as a police constable. She takes on a harrowing investigation into the murder and sexual assault of a Dalit teenager, navigating entrenched biases and societal hurdles.

Originally conceived as a documentary on sexual abuse in India, the film was reimagined as fiction after the director was inspired by images from the 2012 Delhi gang rape protests. Shahana Goswami’s performance is quietly powerful, bringing depth to a story that’s as much about justice as it is about resilience.

(Streaming on Lionsgate Play from October 17)

How to Train Your Dragon (Jio Hotstar)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22w7z_lT6YM&t=16s

For those in the mood for a family-friendly adventure, the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon is ready to take flight. This 2025 adaptation brings to life the magical world introduced in the 2010 animated film and the beloved novels by Cressida Cowell. Dean DeBlois, who co-wrote and directed the original animated films, returns to helm this project, ensuring the essence of the story remains intact.

Follow Hiccup and Toothless as they navigate new challenges, dragons, and surprises, with a cast that includes Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gabriel Howell, and Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast. It’s a visually stunning, heartfelt adventure that the whole family can enjoy this festive weekend.

(Streaming on Jio Hotstar)

Final Destination: Bloodlines (Jio Hotstar)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWMzKXsY9A4

Horror fans, brace yourselves. Final Destination: Bloodlines marks the sixth installment in the iconic Final Destination franchise, but with a fresh, re-imagined take. Directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the film follows college student Stefani Reyes, who inherits visions from her grandmother warning her of deadly premonitions.

Set against the backdrop of a looming skyscraper disaster, Stefani must navigate the terrifying reality that Death is actively hunting her family. With an ensemble cast including Teo Briones, Richard Harmon, and Tony Todd, this supernatural thriller promises nail-biting suspense and chilling sequences that will have horror buffs on the edge of their seats.

(Streaming on Jio Hotstar)

The Diplomat Season 3 (Netflix)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6UX4V71jzc

If intrigue, diplomacy, and political conspiracies are your cup of tea, The Diplomat Season 3 is a binge-worthy pick. Keri Russell returns as Ambassador Kate Wyler, navigating the dangerous waters of international politics in the UK while dealing with a power-shifted United States.

This season dives into high-stakes drama, where Kate uncovers terrorist plots, political betrayals, and personal dilemmas. With Allison Janney’s character, Grace Penn, now President, the tension escalates to new heights. Expect sharp dialogue, thrilling twists, and a closer look at the moral ambiguities behind power.

(Streaming on Netflix from October 16)

Good Fortune (Theatres)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKWndx83RwQ

For a change of pace, Aziz Ansari’s directorial debut Good Fortune mixes supernatural comedy with a dose of heartwarming fun. Seth Rogen, Keke Palmer, Sandra Oh, and Keanu Reeves star in this unique story about an angel named Gabriel whose attempt to teach a struggling man, Arj, that money isn’t the key to happiness goes hilariously wrong.

Through a body-swapping mishap with Arj’s wealthy employer Jeff, chaos ensues, and Gabriel even loses his wings along the way. This film is a delightful watch for those who enjoy whimsical comedy with a subtle moral twist perfect for lightening the Diwali mood.

(In theatres from November 17)

Bison (Theatres)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujoJTExtprI

For audiences looking for gritty drama and sports-inspired storytelling, Bison (also called Bison Kaalamaadan) promises an emotional rollercoaster. Directed by Mari Selvaraj, this Tamil-language sports drama follows a young man who must rise above societal and personal challenges to pursue his passion.

Dhruv Vikram leads an ensemble cast including Pasupathy, Lal, and Anupama Parameswaran, bringing life to a story that’s as much about courage as it is about perseverance. With themes of choice, peace, and triumph over adversity, Bison is ideal for viewers seeking an inspirational narrative grounded in real struggles.

(In theatres from October 17)

Baaghi 4 (Prime Video)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58909OjAfeg&t=17s

Action lovers can rejoice with Baaghi 4, where Tiger Shroff returns as Ranveer “Ronny” in this high-octane thriller. Directed by A. Harsha, the film blends intense fight sequences with psychological tension, exploring the fragile line between memory and reality.

After surviving a catastrophic accident, Ronny grapples with haunting visions of Alisha, a woman whose existence is denied by everyone else. The story twists between action-packed confrontations and the eerie questioning of what’s real and imagined. A must-watch for adrenaline seekers this festive season.

(Streaming on Prime Video)

Dude (Theatres)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39x89Tl1vMI

For fans of romantic action-comedies, Dude offers a refreshing mix of youthful energy and heartfelt storytelling. Directed by Keerthiswaran, this Tamil-language film follows two close friends as they navigate love, loyalty, and sacrifice.

With Pradeep Ranganathan and Mamitha Baiju in the lead roles, and Neha Shetty and R. Sarathkumar supporting, Dude combines lighthearted comedy with emotional depth. Its Diwali release ensures a festive vibe for younger audiences looking for both laughs and feels.

(In theatres from October 17)

Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (Theatres)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-GFCPEWqe4

For kids and the young at heart, Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie brings the beloved Netflix series to the big screen in a magical blend of live-action and animation. Gabby embarks on a road trip adventure with her grandmother, discovering Cat Francisco and fighting to save her dollhouse and the Gabby Cats.

The film stars Laila Lockhart Kraner, Jason Mantzoukas, Gloria Estefan, and Kristen Wiig, making it an engaging family-friendly watch with music, humor, and colorful visuals that are bound to captivate children this Diwali.

(In theatres now)

Mithra Mandali (Theatres)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGXMm4Cx6Po

Finally, for comedy lovers, Mithra Mandali is a buddy comedy filled with chaos, misunderstandings, and festive cheer. Directed by debutant Vijayender S and produced by BV Works, the film features Priyadarshi, Niharika NM, Rag Mayur, Vishnu Oi, and Prasad Behara.

The plot follows a group of misfit friends whose simple lives spiral into comedic mayhem when one of them falls for a politician’s headstrong daughter. Packed with quirky moments and laugh-out-loud scenarios, this film is a perfect pick for viewers looking for light-hearted Diwali entertainment.

(In theatres from October 17)

This Diwali weekend, there’s no shortage of entertainment options. Whether you’re in the mood for a tense crime thriller like Bhagwat – Chapter 1: Raakshas, a heartfelt drama like Santosh, or a family-friendly adventure like How to Train Your Dragon, streaming platforms and theatres have you covered.

Action fans can dive into Baaghi 4, horror enthusiasts can try Final Destination: Bloodlines, and comedy lovers have Good Fortune and Mithra Mandali waiting. Meanwhile, younger audiences and families can enjoy magical worlds with Dude and Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie.

So light up the diyas, grab your snacks, and let this Diwali weekend be filled with stories that thrill, inspire, and entertain. Happy watching!

TL;DR

As the festive lights of Diwali start twinkling across the country, it’s the perfect weekend to snuggle in with some popcorn and dive into a mix of thrillers, comedies, and family adventures. From action-packed blockbusters to gripping crime dramas and animated fantasies, here’s your ultimate entertainment guide on what to watch and where to catch it.