Prithviraj Sukumaran's starrer Khalifa is also set to release on OTT platforms after its theatrical run. The film released in theatres on August 20 and clashed with the superhit Bethlehem Kudumba Unit.
While the theatrical response was mixed, it is now time to see how the film is received on OTT. It is also very rare for a film to stream on not just one but six OTT platforms. Here is everything you need to know.
Most Malayalam films settle on a single streaming home. Khalifa is spreading across six services so viewers in different regions and language groups can watch it easily.
Prime Video and Lionsgate Play: Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi
Prime Video (AP International South Cinema subscribers): all South Indian languages
Simply South: another option for South Indian cinema fans abroad
Aha: Tamil and Telugu
Manorama Max: Malayalam
Starzplay: the Middle East and North Africa
The film opened during the Onam window and went up against Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, which drew a strong audience of its own. Reactions to Khalifa were divided. Some viewers enjoyed its scale, stylish action and surprise cameos, while others found the story familiar. Even so, the film has crossed Rs 50 crore worldwide.
Khalifa is a crime action drama centred on Aamir Ali, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran. He is the heir to a vast gold-smuggling empire built by his family over generations. The business was founded by his grandfather, Mambarakkal Ahmed Ali, played by Mohanlal in a special appearance.
The network stretches across the Middle East, London, Nepal and Kerala. Having inherited it, Aamir must protect the family's legacy while facing the rivalries, ambitions and dangers that come with such an empire. Power, loyalty and vengeance drive the story, with Neil Nitin Mukesh and Malavika Sharma in key roles.
The film is the first part of a two-part saga. This instalment mainly sets up the Ali family's world and hierarchy, and the story is expected to widen in the sequel.
For viewers in India, Prime Video is the simplest choice because it carries all five main languages. Those in the Gulf can use Starzplay, and Tamil and Telugu audiences can also find it on Aha. The makers have not revealed the digital rights deal.
Mark your calendar for October 9 and pick the platform that suits you.