What to watch this weekend: OTT & theatrical releases from 'The Traitors to 'Materialists'

Looking for the perfect watch this weekend? Whether you're staying in with your favourite snacks or planning a big-screen outing, this weekend’s lineup has something for everyone. From intense crime thrillers and emotional sports dramas to romantic dilemmas and exciting reality shows, the OTT and cinema worlds are buzzing with fresh content. Here's a handpicked guide to help you decide what to stream or book tickets for.

Alappuzha Gymkhana (SonyLIV)

If you're in the mood for a punch of motivation and action, Alappuzha Gymkhana is a must-watch. This Malayalam-language sports drama has quietly become one of the biggest surprise hits of the year. The story follows a group of students from a small town who train in professional boxing to gain college admission through the sports quota. But what starts as a smart academic move soon turns into a life-changing experience as the group enters a real professional boxing competition.

Expect sweat, bruises, and emotional knockouts as the story blends personal struggle with the larger fight for identity, ambition, and dreams. For lovers of gritty, heart-in-the-ring stories like Chak De! India or Sarpatta Parambarai, this one hits all the right notes.

The Traitors (Amazon Prime Video)

This one’s for all reality TV junkies! The Traitors, hosted by Karan Johar, brings an edge-of-your-seat twist to competition shows. With a cast of 20 popular names including Karan Kundrra, Jasmin Bhasin, Raftaar, Uorfi Javed, Jannat Zubair, Raj Kundra, Anshula Kapoor, and more, this game is all about trust, betrayal, and strategy. The setting? A majestic mansion. The challenge? Figuring out who among them are “traitors” before it’s too late. It’s dramatic, chaotic, stylish, and just the right kind of addictive. Ideal for fans of Bigg Boss, Splitsvilla, and all things reality!

Rana Naidu Season 2 (Netflix)

Back with more darkness, emotional chaos, and slick drama, Rana Naidu returns for Season 2. An official adaptation of Ray Donovan, this Indian crime series continues to explore the complicated relationship between fixer Rana and his father.

With big names like Rana Daggubati, Venkatesh, Arjun Rampal, and Surveen Chawla, the cast itself is reason enough to tune in. Season 2 promises even deeper betrayals, bolder moves, and an intense family showdown that’s sure to leave you hooked. If you're into complex thrillers with emotional weight, make space for this in your weekend binge.

Kesari Chapter 2 (JioHotstar)

Brace yourself for history, grit, and nationalism as Kesari Chapter 2 dives into the powerful real-life journey of C Sankaran Nair, the fearless lawyer and freedom fighter. Played by Akshay Kumar, with strong support from R Madhavan and Ananya Panday, this film explores the events surrounding the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre and how Nair took on the British Empire in court. Part biopic, part courtroom drama, and part political thriller, this is a great pick for viewers who love patriotic cinema with an edge.

Materialists (Theatrical)

Celine Song’s latest romantic drama Materialists is here to charm you. Featuring Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, and Pedro Pascal in a love triangle, the film tells the story of Lucy, a professional matchmaker who finds herself stuck between her past (Evans) and a potential future (Pascal).

But this is not your typical rom-com. Like Song’s Past Lives, this one leans into quiet longing, real emotional choices, and the question of what love really means in the modern world. A heartfelt watch for anyone who enjoys soulful storytelling with attractive leads and emotional depth.

How to Train Your Dragon (In Theatres)

Families and animation fans, rejoice! The beloved 2010 classic returns this time in a live-action avatar. While the heart of the story remains the same, a young Viking named Hiccup and his bond with a rare dragon named Toothless, this new version brings updated visuals, real sets, and a fresh cast. It’s nostalgic, charming, and still as magical, making it a solid weekend outing for both kids and adults.

From the World of John Wick: Ballerina (In Theatres)

For action lovers, Ballerina is the perfect theatrical thrill ride. Set in the sleek, stylish, and savage world of John Wick, this spin-off stars Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a trained ballerina turned deadly assassin on a revenge mission.

With appearances by Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane, and the late Lance Reddick, the film builds upon the gritty universe we all love while carving out a strong female lead. Expect choreographed violence, neon visuals, and emotional beats, perfect for an adrenaline-filled movie night.

Whether you’re seeking suspense, nostalgia, drama, or just good old entertainment, there’s a perfect pick waiting for you. So grab your popcorn, queue up the remote, or hit the ticket counter, your weekend watchlist is now sorted!