3 OTT picks to binge-watch this weekend 

Got the long weekend looming large, but don’t quite know what to stream as you while away your time? Fear not, we’ve got you covered! 

Tere Ishk Mein (Netflix) 

Intense romance hits the streets of Varanasi  

If you are looking for an emotionally charged cinematic experience this weekend, Tere Ishk Mein is the definitive choice. Directed by Aanand L. Rai and featuring a haunting score by A.R. Rahman, the film marks the highly anticipated digital premiere of the spiritual successor to Raanjhanaa. Starring Dhanush and Kriti Sanon, the narrative is an intense, cross-generational love story centered on Shankar, a hot-headed student leader in Varanasi. The plot follows Shankar and Mukti as their all-consuming romance unfolds against the backdrop of the holy city, exploring themes of surrender, transformation, and unfinished emotions that heal and hurt in equal measure. 

The film successfully blends deep personal relationships with moving performances, showcasing Dhanush’s signature intensity as his past actions as a student leader return to haunt his present life as an Air Force officer. While the screenplay received mixed reviews for its pacing, the chemistry between the leads and the visual poetry of the setting have made it a favorite for romance lovers.  

Now streaming on Netflix, Tere Ishk Mein is a bold exploration of love’s obsessive nature and the sacrifices required for redemption. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the gritty, grounded romanticism that has become a hallmark of Rai’s storytelling. 

Space Gen: Chandrayaan (JioHotstar) 

A tale of resilience, to infinity and beyond 

For viewers who prefer real-life inspiration and high-stakes scientific drama, Space Gen: Chandrayaan on JioHotstar offers a gripping look at India’s lunar ambitions. Created by Arunabh Kumar and directed by Anant Singh, this five-episode series chronicles the emotional and scientific journey of the ISRO team.  

The narrative begins with the heartbreak of the Chandrayaan-2 crash and follows the engineers as they face mounting pressure to redeem themselves, eventually leading to the historic soft landing of Chandrayaan-3. Starring Nakuul Mehta and Shriya Saran, the show moves beyond technical jargon to highlight the human stories of teamwork, resilience, and national pride. 

The series is a masterclass in tension, effectively portraying the grueling years of preparation and the psychological toll of failure on the scientific community. Rather than a dry documentary, Space Gen is a dramatized celebration of ambition that feels deeply personal. The performances bring a relatable vulnerability to the figures behind the headlines, making the final victory feel earned and profoundly moving. For those seeking a feel-good watch with intellectual depth and a patriotic pulse, this is an essential addition to the weekend watchlist. 

Cheekatilo (Amazon Prime Video) 

Uncovering buried horrors in Hyderabad 

Rounding out the list is the Telugu crime thriller Cheekatilo, which marks a significant turn for Sobhita Dhulipala as she takes on the role of a true-crime podcaster.  

Premiering on Amazon Prime Video, the film follows Sandhya, a criminology graduate who investigates the mysterious death of her intern. Her search for the truth quickly collides with a 20-year-old serial killer case, forcing her to confront the buried horrors of patriarchy and power. Directed by Sharan Koppisetty, the film is an atmospheric mystery that uses the podcasting medium to drive a chilling, suspenseful narrative. 

The series excels in its portrayal of systemic silence and the personal risk involved in exposing long-hidden secrets. Dhulipala’s performance is anchored by a sense of grit and intelligence, making Sandhya a compelling protagonist as she navigates the dangerous underbelly of Hyderabad. Cheekatilo is more than a standard police procedural; it is a sharp social commentary wrapped in a high-tension thriller. With its intricate plot and realistic tone, it is perfect for fans of dark, cerebral mysteries that stay with you long after the credits roll.