After creating waves in theaters, the much‑anticipated Tamil‑Telugu period crime thriller Kaantha has now made its way to OTT. Directed by Selvamani Selvaraj and starring Dulquer Salmaan and Rana Daggubati, the film has been praised for its gripping narrative, layered performances, and authentic recreation of 1950s Madras. With its digital premiere, Kaantha is set to reach a wider audience, offering viewers across the globe a chance to experience one of the most talked‑about Indian films of 2025.
OTT Release Details
Kaantha began streaming on Netflix from December 12, 2025, following its theatrical release on November 14, 2025. The film is available in multiple languages - Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and in Kannada under the title Shaantha. With a runtime of 163 minutes, the film offers a detailed exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the fragile balance between art and ego.
Plot Snapshot
Set against the backdrop of 1950s Madras, Kaantha tells the story of a renowned director, Ayya, and his protégé, T.K. Mahadevan, who rises to stardom. Their relationship, once built on trust, becomes strained when Mahadevan renames a female‑centric film Shaantha to Kaantha to suit his own image. This clash over creative control spirals into betrayal, rivalry, and ultimately murder, turning the narrative into a suspenseful whodunnit. The film blends period detailing with psychological tension, making it both a crime mystery and a commentary on ambition.
Cast and Crew
- Dulquer Salmaan as T.K. Mahadevan, the ambitious superstar whose choices drive the conflict.
- Rana Daggubati as producer Chandran, a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.
- Samuthirakani as Ayya, the legendary director caught in the storm of betrayal.
- Bhagyashri Borse in a key supporting role.
- Directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, co‑written with Thamizh Prabha.
- Produced jointly by Wayfarer Films (Dulquer) and Spirit Media (Rana).
- Music: Songs by Jhanu Chanthar, background score by Jakes Bejoy.
- Cinematography: Dani Sanchez‑Lopez, praised for authentically recreating 1950s Madras.
Reception
Critics have lauded Kaantha for its performances and layered storytelling. Dulquer Salmaan’s portrayal of Mahadevan has been described as charismatic yet vulnerable, while Rana Daggubati’s gravitas adds weight to the narrative. Samuthirakani’s role as Ayya has been singled out for its emotional depth. The film’s cinematography and period detailing have also received strong praise, with audiences appreciating the authenticity of the setting.
Kaantha is not just another period film - it is a layered crime mystery that explores ambition, betrayal, and the fragile balance between art and ego. With powerhouse performances from Dulquer Salmaan and Rana Daggubati, and Netflix bringing it to a global audience, Kaantha has cemented its place as one of the standout Indian releases of 2025. For fans of crime thrillers and period dramas, its OTT release offers the perfect chance to experience the film’s suspense, artistry, and emotional depth.
