The Telugu spy action thriller Kingdom, starring Vijay Deverakonda, has made its highly anticipated digital debut today, August 27, 2025, on Netflix, coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi. Directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, the film hit theaters on July 31, 2025, and after a four-week theatrical run, it is now available to stream in multiple languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi (titled Saamrajya due to title issues). Despite mixed reviews and controversies, Kingdom has generated significant buzz, and its OTT release is poised to attract a wide pan-Indian audience.
About ‘Kingdom’
Kingdom follows the story of Suri (Vijay Deverakonda), a police constable turned undercover spy, who embarks on a dangerous mission in Sri Lanka to locate his estranged brother, Siva (Satyadev). The narrative weaves high-octane action with emotional themes of brotherhood and duty, set against a socio-political backdrop involving a weapons cartel and a marginalized tribal community. The film features Bhagyashri Borse as Dr. Madhu, Venkitesh V.P. as the antagonist Murugan, and a supporting cast including Manish Chaudhari and Baburaj. Directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, known for Jersey, Kingdom boasts a gripping score by Anirudh Ravichander, cinematography by Girish Gangadharan, and editing by Naveen Nooli.
The film grossed ₹82.02 crore worldwide during its theatrical run but faced criticism for its inconsistent narrative and rushed second half. Despite this, Vijay Deverakonda and Satyadev’s performances, along with the action sequences and Anirudh’s music, received praise. The OTT version reportedly includes exclusive extras, such as a bonus song and extended action scenes, which didn’t make the theatrical cut.
OTT Release Details
- Platform: Netflix
- Release Date: August 27, 2025
- Languages: Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi (Saamrajya)
- Streaming Rights: Acquired by Netflix for a reported ₹50–53 crore, one of the highest for a Vijay Deverakonda film.
Netflix India announced the release on social media with the caption, “In the kingdom of gold, blood and fire… a new king rises from the ashes,” accompanied by a fresh poster. The film’s producer, Sithara Entertainments, echoed the announcement, emphasizing its availability in multiple languages. The early OTT release, just four weeks after its theatrical debut, aligns with the trend of Telugu films transitioning quickly to digital platforms, especially given Kingdom’s mixed box office performance, recovering only 39% of its ₹130 crore budget.
Controversies and Reception
Kingdom stirred controversy for its portrayal of Sri Lankan Tamils, with some Tamil-speaking communities, including members of Naam Thamizhar Katchi (NTK), protesting in Tiruchy and demanding a ban. Critics argued that the depiction was insensitive, particularly given the historical context of the Tamil genocide in Sri Lanka. The Madras High Court responded by noting that Tamil Nadu police would provide security for theaters if needed. The film’s team issued an apology, but the controversy has carried over to its OTT release, with social media debates continuing.
Critics gave Kingdom mixed reviews, praising its visual grandeur and performances but criticizing its lack of emotional depth and pacing issues. Avad Mohammad of OTTPlay rated it 2.5/5, noting, “Kingdom does not live up to all the hype created.” BVS Prakash of Deccan Chronicle gave it 1.5/5, calling it an “overly ambitious tale” that failed to replicate Tinnanuri’s emotional storytelling from Jersey.
What to Expect on OTT
The Netflix release is generating buzz for its extended cut, which reportedly includes a romantic song and an additional fight sequence, enhancing the theatrical experience. Fans are eager to see Vijay Deverakonda’s high-energy performance as Suri, described as a career-defining role, and Satyadev’s intense portrayal of Siva. The film’s multilingual availability makes it accessible to a broader audience, and its action-packed narrative is expected to resonate with streaming viewers who enjoy spy thrillers with emotional stakes.
There are also hints of a larger Kingdom universe, with Tinnanuri planning a prequel series about a key character, Sethu, and a potential sequel, though doubts linger due to the film’s underwhelming box office performance. Netflix’s investment in the project signals confidence in its digital appeal, and posts on X suggest fans are excited to binge-watch from home.
Conclusion
Kingdom’s OTT release on Netflix today, August 27, 2025, offers fans a chance to experience Vijay Deverakonda’s action-packed spy drama from the comfort of their homes. Despite controversies over its portrayal of Sri Lankan Tamils and mixed critical reception, the film’s high production values, stellar cast, and exclusive OTT content make it a must-watch for action and drama enthusiasts. As Kingdom streams in five languages, it aims to capture a diverse audience, potentially redeeming its theatrical shortcomings. Log in to Netflix to catch this Telugu thriller and join the conversation about its ambitious narrative and polarizing impact.
Sources:,,,,,,,,, https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/movies/kingdom/ott.html
