What to watch: October OTT releases

• Streaming platforms launch new shows and films this October
• Netflix and Prime Video release titles like East of Eden and Dupahiya
• Viewers can choose content based on their schedule and mood

October is here, bringing with it festive cheer and a flood of new shows and films on streaming platforms. To save you from endless scrolling, we've matched this month's biggest releases to your schedule. Here's what to watch and when.

For the Long Weekend Binge

Have a long weekend thanks to the holidays? Settle in for a serious binge-watch. Prime Video is bringing back the quirky rural comedy-drama 'Dupahiya' for a second season, starting October 1. The new season promises more chaos in the fictional village of Dhadakpur, this time centered around a mysterious mobile tower. For those who prefer something more intense, Netflix is releasing 'East of Eden' on October 1. This seven-episode miniseries is a new adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel, starring Florence Pugh and exploring complex family rivalries and generational trauma. It’s a prestige drama that demands your full attention, perfect for a long weekend of immersive viewing.

For a Big Movie Night

If you're planning a movie night with family or friends, there are several big-ticket films dropping on OTT. For fans of South Indian action, 'Sardar 2' arrives on Amazon Prime Video on October 1. The spy-action thriller sees Karthi reprising his dual roles in a story that follows Inspector Vijay as he confronts a new threat. For a dose of Malayalam romantic comedy, 'Bethlehem Kudumba Unit' starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju streams on JioHotstar from October 2. It follows an unexpected romance in a close-knit community. And for a Hindi psychological thriller, ZEE5 releases 'Pooja Meri Jaan' on October 2, starring Mrunal Thakur as a woman facing legal trouble after a rejected lover's death.

For Your Daily Commute or Quick Break

Only have 20-30 minutes? There’s content for that, too. The animated two-part special 'Lego One Piece' on Netflix retells the early adventures of the Straw Hat pirates in a fun, condensed format perfect for a quick watch. It began streaming on September 29. For something a little different, the second season of 'Dupahiya' on Prime Video also features manageable episode lengths that fit easily into a busy schedule, offering a dose of small-town mystery and humour without a huge time commitment. These shows are ideal for watching on the go or during a short break in your day.

For a Thought-Provoking Watch

When you're in the mood for something that makes you think, October has you covered. 'Pooja Meri Jaan' on ZEE5 is a psychological thriller that doubles as a courtroom drama, exploring themes of obsession, consent, and societal judgment. Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi lead the cast in this intense film. On Netflix, the investigative comedy-drama 'Ohh My Dog' offers a unique story starring Pankaj Tripathi. Releasing October 1, it follows two parallel mysteries involving a missing dog and a missing person, which connect in unexpected ways, blending humour with a touching story about the bond between humans and animals.

For the Modern Romance Buff

If you're fascinated by the complexities of modern love, tune into '#Love' on Netflix, a Tamil romantic series premiering on October 2. It stars Aishwarya Lekshmi and Arjun Das as rival founders of two competing dating apps. One believes in calculated compatibility, while the other believes in unplanned chemistry. Their professional rivalry leads them to test their own theories on love in real life, making for a timely and relatable exploration of relationships in the digital age.