As the year comes to an end, audiences of Kannada cinema have several reasons to celebrate. One more major film featuring a top-tier hero is set to be released, marking his return after a hiatus of two and a half years. Additionally, another successful film is expected to premiere on OTT platforms as a special Christmas offering. There is also a Kannada-dubbed title that may appeal to younger viewers. However, with Real Star Upendra's film, UI, which was released on December 20, performing well, it appears that two prominent Kannada actors will dominate the box office in the state this week.

Here’s a look at what’s in store for audiences in theatres and on OTT in the week of December 23 to December 29

Max

Kiccha Sudeep's highly anticipated 46th film, Max, is set to premiere in theatres this week. Although the film has been ready since last August, its release was postponed for reasons known only to producer Kalaippuli S Thanu. The Kannada version is scheduled to debut on Christmas Day, with the Telugu and Tamil versions following two days later.

In this film, Sudeep's character, known as Max, is a police officer named Arjun Mahakshay, featured in an action-packed thriller directed by debutant Vijay Kartikeyaa. The narrative unfolds over the course of a single night, focusing on a specific incident and Max's response to it.

Release format: Theatres 

Release date: December 25, 2024  

There is no romantic subplot for Kiccha Sudeep in Max, and the reasons for this choice are noteworthy.

Barroz

Mohanlal, the renowned Malayalam actor, makes his directorial debut with Barroz, in which he portrays a 400-year-old genie or spirit tasked with safeguarding the treasure of Vasco da Gama until the rightful heir claims it. The film is inspired by a novel authored by Jijo Punnoose, who is also known for directing India's first 3D film, My Dear Kuttichathan. The screenplay was subsequently revised by Mohanlal and TK Rajeev Kumar. Additionally, the film will be available in a Kannada dubbed version.

Barroz is filmed entirely in 3D and features a diverse cast, including Maya Rao West, Cesar Lorente Raton, Ignacio Mateos, Kallirroi Tziafeta, Guru Somasundaram, and Tuhin Menon, among others.

Release format: Theatres  

Release date: December 25, 2024.

Bhairathi Ranagal

The prequel to Century Star Shivarajkumar’s Mufti, featuring his return as Bhairathi Ranagal, the crime lord of Ronapura, delves into his formative years and the motivations that led him down a violent path for the benefit of his community. The film performed well at the box office and is anticipated to be available on OTT platforms during the Christmas week, much to the delight of the actor's fans, especially as he is currently in the United States undergoing surgical treatment as part of his ongoing battle with cancer.

Directed by Narthan, Bhairathi Ranagal also featured performances by Rahul Bose, Shabeer Kallarakkal, Rukmini Vijaykumar, Chaya Singh, Madhu Guruswamy, Babu Hirannaiah, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, and Avinash, among others.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video  

Expected streaming date: December 25, 2024  

Bhairathi Ranagal movie review: The Mufti prequel led by Shivarajkumar is akin to a rather insipid soda.

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