The Kannada film industry is preparing for a big festive clash this year. Two highly awaited movies, MARK starring Kichcha Sudeep and 45 featuring Shivarajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B Shetty, are both releasing on December 25, 2025. With such powerful names and strong buzz, fans are wondering which film will be worth watching first. Let’s look at both movies in detail.
MARK - Action Thriller with Sudeep
MARK is directed by Vijay Karthikeyan and presents superstar Kichcha Sudeep in the role of Ajay Markandaya, a suspended police officer who fights against criminals and corruption. The trailer and songs, especially “Mast Malaika”, have already created excitement among fans.
The film promises stylish visuals, high‑energy action sequences, and gripping drama. With Satya Hegde’s cinematography and Arjun Janya’s music, the technical side of the movie looks strong. Sudeep’s mass appeal is the biggest advantage. His films often open to packed houses, and MARK is expected to follow the same trend.
Trade experts predict that MARK could earn between ₹6–10 crore on its first day in Karnataka. The festive timing, combined with family audiences choosing cinema as a holiday outing, gives the film a clear edge.
45 - A Multistarrer with Emotional Depth
45 is directed by Arjun Janya, who is making his debut as a filmmaker after years of success as a music composer. The movie brings together three Kannada legends - Shivarajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B Shetty in one frame. This multistarrer itself is a huge attraction for fans.
The story of 45 is inspired by Arjun Janya’s own life experiences and struggles, making it a personal project. The film is expected to mix CGI-heavy visuals with emotional storytelling. Alongside the three lead stars, the cast also includes Kaustubha Mani and Jisshu Sengupta, adding more depth to the narrative.
With such a strong lineup, 45 is expected to draw massive crowds. It is not just an action drama but also a film that aims to connect emotionally with audiences.
Box Office and OTT Reach
Both films are releasing on the same day, which makes the clash even more interesting. MARK has secured OTT rights with JioHotstar, while 45 will stream later on Zee5. This ensures that even after their theatrical run, both movies will reach wider audiences across India.
Which One to Watch?
The choice depends on what viewers want from their festive watch.
- If you enjoy fast‑paced action, stylish visuals, and Sudeep’s commanding presence, MARK is the right pick.
- If you prefer a multistarrer with emotional storytelling and dramatic visuals, 45 may be more appealing.
This Christmas, Kannada cinema fans are lucky to have two major releases. MARK offers thrilling action and star power, while 45 delivers emotional depth and a grand multistarrer experience. No matter which film you choose, both promise to make the holiday season memorable. The real winner will be the audience, who get to celebrate with two of the biggest Kannada films of 2025.
