As we step into 2026, a number of smaller-budget films are hitting theatres this week. From Alcohol to Justice for Jeni, here are a few films you can catch in theatres this Friday
Siri, an orphan who conceals her fictitious work certificates, unexpectedly becomes close to Kalyan, a software worker who is seen as the ideal family man. Siri learns that Kalyan's family isn't his own family when she stays at his place later. The narrative then reveals their identities and the reasons Kalyan resides with them. Cast: Raam Kiran, Megha Akash. Director: Uday Sharma.
In the village of Saraswathipuram, education is highly prized. In the village, Nilakanta is employed as a tailor. Since he was a young child, he has been wise and compassionate. He believes in karma, but sadly, it seems to be cursing him. He fights valiantly for his life regardless of how strong the opponent is. Who is that competitor? Cast: Mahendran, Yashna Muthuluri. Director: Rakesh Madhavan.
It is about a wealthy man who abstains from alcohol but becomes involved in criminal activity, setting off a chaotic and morally dubious journey that emphasises obsession and a psychologically driven story with noir graphics. Cast: Allari Naresh, Ruhani Sharma. Director: Meher Tej.
Prithvi, a well-known travel vlogger, discovers a sinister secret about his own family. His quest for the truth sets him on a path of self-discovery by bringing him to his estranged father. Is Prithvi able to find closure? Cast: Nihar Mukesh, Rachana Inder. Director: Ramenahalli Jagannatha.
Madhan goes on a one-day date with Radhi, a stunning spa employee; the day turns into a perilous pursuit as Radhi is sought after by the police and a gang, culminating in a startling revelation that reveals their relationship. Cast: Saravana Vickram, Hasli Amaan. Director: Praveen K Mani.
Best friends Jeni and Priyanka are ambitious medical students. But when Jeni is brutally raped and killed, everything in their life falls apart. Devastated and enraged, Priyanka sets out to pursue justice, only to run into the terrible truth about power and justice as well as the brutal realities of the legal system. Cast: Ashika Ashokan, Sandra Anil. Director: Santhosh Ryan.
The story weaves themes of love, sacrifice, and societal challenges while focussing on the hardships and plight of the transgender community, especially highlighting their struggle against exploitation (rowdies attempting to force them into prostitution) and seeking justice through a "Janata Court." Cast: B Manjamma Jyogathi, Dachchu Divakar. Director: Ashok Jayram.
Freedom warrior Neera Arya enlists in Subhas Chandra Bose's first women's army, showcasing themes of bravery and patriotism as well as unseen tales from India's independence movement. Cast: Sreyas Talpade, Roopa Iyer. Director: Roopa Iyer.