Period Crime Thriller Kaantha OTT Release Date: When and Where to Watch Online

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Dulquer Salmaan’s Tamil period drama Kaantha is gearing up for the digital premiere on Netflix on 12 December 2025. The movie was released in theatres on 14 November; however, the profits did not meet the makers’ expectations. The project failed to achieve commercial success compared to Salmaan’s recent projects, despite the critics praising the intricate plot of the movie. 

Breaking Down the Kaantha Plot

The film Kaantha is a Tamil drama set in the cinematic world of 1950s Madras. Its plot explores the complicated mentor-protege bond between a revered filmmaker, Ayya, and a celebrated star, T. K. Mahadevan. Dulquer Salmaan portrays the charismatic superstar, Mahadevan, and Samuthirakani plays the role of Ayya.

Ayya shapes Mahadevan's path to stardom with great pride in the beginning. However, their bond starts getting affected when Mahadevan starts influencing the creative direction of their projects. This artistic clash leads to a conflict between the two men. The tension peaks when Mahadevan takes charge of Ayya's dream project and renames the women-focused film Shaantha to Kaantha, suiting his own public image.

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A mysterious death occurs during the climax shoot on the set. An investigation is then conducted by police officer Phoenix, played by Rana Daggubati. Ayya and Mahadevan emerge as the prime suspects.

Cast and Crew: The Ensemble Behind the Period Thriller

The period drama and thriller Kaantha was co-written and directed by Selvamani Selvaraj. The film brings together an impressive and talented ensemble cast. Dulquer Salmaan stars in the lead role as the film star T. K. Mahadevan, while Samuthirakani delivers a powerful performance as Ayya, the legendary filmmaker and Mahadevan's former mentor. Bhagyashri Borse made her Tamil debut, playing the character Raja Kumari.

Rana Daggubati, who is also one of the film's producers, appears in the role of the police officer, Phoenix. He is further accompanied by a powerful supporting cast, including Ravindra Vijay, Gayathrie, and Nizhalgal Ravi. Kaantha was produced by Rana Daggubati's Spirit Media and Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films banners.

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Dani Sanchez Lopez handled the cinematography, whereas the editing work was managed by Llewellyn Anthony Gonsalvez. On the other hand, the film's music was composed by Jhanu Chanthar, with the background score by Jakes Bejoy.