The high-octane rivalry of the Kannada film industry is shifting from the silver screen to the digital world. After clashing at the box office during the Christmas window on December 25, 2025, two of Sandalwood’s biggest films of the season Kichcha Sudeep’s ‘Mark’ and the multi-starrer ‘45’ featuring Shivarajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty are now headed for an OTT face-off.
In a rare coincidence, both films are scheduled to begin streaming on the same day: January 23, 2026.
‘Mark’: Sudeep’s Powerhouse Police Drama Hits JioHotstar
Kichcha Sudeep’s ‘Mark’ comes to the OTT platform with the momentum of a massive box-office success. Directed by Vijay Karthikeya, the film reportedly crossed the ₹50 crore mark during its theatrical run.
The movie features Sudeep in a gritty, intense police avatar that fans have compared to his iconic 'Max' persona. What made the film stand out was its tight screenplay the entire story unfolds over a span of just two days. This fast-paced narrative resonated not only with the Kannada audience but also earned "full marks" from Tamil viewers.
For those who missed the theatrical experience or want to witness Sudeep’s commanding performance again, ‘Mark’ will be available on JioHotstar starting January 23.
‘45’: A Spiritual and Philosophical Experiment
On the other side of the digital ring is ‘45’, the directorial debut of famed music composer Arjun Janya. The film generated immense hype prior to its release due to its legendary cast: the "Century Star" Shivarajkumar, the "Real Star" Upendra, and the versatile Raj B. Shetty.
While ‘45’ struggled to meet the massive sky-high commercial expectations of the masses, it earned praise for its unique storytelling. The film weaves a narrative rooted in a social message combined with themes from the Garuda Purana.
- Character Depth: All three leads were given significant screen time, though critics noted that Shivarajkumar’s performance held a slight edge in terms of emotional weight.
- Target Audience: The film has found a dedicated following among niche audiences who appreciate philosophical and experimental cinema.
It remains to be seen if the digital audience, which often favors experimental themes, will give ‘45’ the "hit" status it narrowly missed in theaters.
Why the January 23 Date Matters
The decision to release both films on the same Friday is a treat for Kannada cinephiles. It offers a clear choice: the high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping action of ‘Maark’ or the thought-provoking, star-studded journey of ‘45’.
As OTT platforms continue to grow in South India, this "clash of the titans" marks a significant moment for the Kannada film industry’s 2026 digital roadmap.
