Inspector Zende (Netflix, September 5): Manoj Bajpayee stars as a street-smart cop, Zende in this quirky film loosely inspired by a true story of serial killer Charles Sobhraj being caught by Mumbai Police inspector Madhukar Zende. It features Jim Sarbh playing the flamboyant and stylish swimsuit killer, Carl Bhojraj, who escapes from prison and Zende is called-in to catch him as he had arrested Carl fifteen years before as well. Written and directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, the film also stars Sachin Khedekar, Bhalchandra Kadam, Harish Dudhade, Onkar Raut, Bharat Savale, Nitin Bhajan, Girija Oak and Vaibhav Mangale in pivotal roles.
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan (ZEE5, September 5): Vikrant Massey and debutante Shanaya Kapoor star in this romantic-drama inspired by Ruskin Bond’s short story, ‘The Eyes Have It’. Vikrant plays a visually impaired musician and poet who falls in love with Jahaan, an aspiring actor, who has blindfolded herself in order to prepare for a film audition. Their chance encounter on a train sparks an unexpected connection — one not built on sight, but on shared dreams, heartfelt moments, and a push-and-pull chemistry. Set in the picturesque locations of Mussoorie and Europe, the film has been directed by Santosh Singh. It had a dismal performance at the box office at the time of its theatrical release on July 11 and could only amass Rs 1.71 crore in its lifetime.
Rise and Fall (September 6, Amazon MX Player): Lastly on Hindi OTT this week is this reality show hosted by entrepreneur and former Shark Tank India judge, Ashneer Grover, which brings together 16 celebrity contestants for 42 days of competition and drama set in two starkly different worlds. The contestants are divided into two groups, Rulers and Strugglers as they face physical, emotional and mental challenges competing for mansion dominance. The celebrity lineup includes actors Arjun Bijlani and Kubbra Sait, choreographer and influencer Dhanashree Verma, and comedian Kiku Sharda, among others. The show is produced by Banijay Asia, licensed from All3Media International. It is an Indian adaption of the British reality show of the same name which premiered in 2023.
