Friday Theatre Releases (May 23, 2025): 7 New Movies To Watch This Weekend In Cinema Halls
This Friday, May 23, 2025, Indian cinema enthusiasts are in for a treat with seven fresh theatrical releases, spanning across genres like romantic comedy, historical drama, horror, family adventure, and political thrillers. Whether you’re a fan of emotionally charged indie narratives or mainstream masala entertainers, this weekend’s lineup promises something for everyone.
Let’s take a closer look at each of the films hitting theatres this Friday and what makes them worth watching.
Full List of Friday Theatre Releases (May 23, 2025)
| Movie Title | Cast | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Bhool Chuk Maaf | Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Seema Pahwa | Romantic Comedy |
| Kesari Veer | Sooraj Pancholi, Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, Akanksha S, Barkha Bisht | Action / Historical Drama |
| Sister Midnight | Radhika Apte, Ashok Pathak, Chhaya Kadam, Smita Tambe, Navya Sawant | Indie Drama / Comedy |
| Kapkapiii | Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor | Horror / Comedy |
| Lilo & Stitch | Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Zach Galifianakis, Maia Kealoha, Chris Sanders | Family / Adventure / Sci-Fi |
| ACE | Vijay Sethupathi, Rukmini Vasanth | Crime / Action / Thriller |
| Narivetta | Tovino Thomas, Suraj Venjaramoodu | Political Drama / Thriller |
Bhool Chuk Maaf – A Legal Drama Turned Romantic Comedy
Starring: Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, Seema Pahwa
Directed by: Karan Sharma
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Initially planned for an OTT debut on May 16, 2025, Bhool Chuk Maaf took a detour to theatres after a controversial legal dispute. The movie’s OTT release was halted due to a ₹60 crore lawsuit filed by PVR INOX, citing breach of contractual agreement with Maddock Films.
Eventually, a settlement led to the Bombay High Court greenlighting a theatrical release on May 23, 2025. This family-friendly romantic comedy stars the talented Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, and veteran actress Seema Pahwa in pivotal roles. With sharp writing and heartwarming performances, it’s poised to be a crowd-pleaser.
Kesari Veer – Epic Valor of Unsung Warriors
Starring: Sooraj Pancholi, Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi
Genre: Historical Action Drama
Kesari Veer dives deep into the annals of Indian history with a dramatic retelling of the Rajput resistance against the tyrant Zafar Khan, played by Vivek Oberoi. The film revolves around Prince Hamirji Gohil, portrayed by Sooraj Pancholi, and his mentor-warrior Vegda Ji, played with gravitas by Suniel Shetty.
Set against the backdrop of the Somnath Temple, this historical drama is not just a visual spectacle but a tribute to valor, sacrifice, and cultural pride.
Sister Midnight – Indie Cinema at Its Finest
Starring: Radhika Apte, Ashok Pathak, Chhaya Kadam
Genre: Drama / Slice of Life
Having received recognition at Cannes and BAFTA, Sister Midnight marks the feature debut of director Karan Kandhari. The film begins the morning after a traditional arranged marriage, with the protagonist waking up to a mysterious silence and unexpected solitude.
Radhika Apte delivers yet another gripping performance, delving into themes of loneliness, identity, and societal expectations. It’s a slow-burn drama best suited for lovers of nuanced storytelling.
Kapkapiii – When Horror Meets Hilarity
Starring: Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor
Genre: Horror Comedy
Directed by: Late Sangeeth Sivan
A tribute to the late Sangeeth Sivan, Kapkapiii marries horror and humour in a genre-blending entertainer. Known for his iconic films in the early 2000s, Sivan’s final directorial venture promises eerie laughter and a dash of nostalgia.
Shreyas Talpade and Tusshar Kapoor bring their comedic timing into a spooky setting, creating a film that is as hilarious as it is haunted. Perfect for fans of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa genre.
Lilo & Stitch – Disney’s Heartwarming Reboot
Starring: Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Maia Kealoha, Zach Galifianakis
Genre: Family, Sci-Fi, Adventure
Produced by: Jonathan Eirich, Dan Lin
Disney’s beloved 2002 animated classic gets the live-action treatment, blending modern VFX with the emotional depth of the original. Lilo & Stitch chronicles the heartfelt friendship between a lonely Hawaiian girl and a genetically engineered alien.
With a diverse and talented cast, this adaptation promises to enchant children and adults alike. Expect laughter, tears, and plenty of Ohana vibes.
ACE – Crime, Comedy, and Chaos in Malaysia
Starring: Vijay Sethupathi, Rukmini Vasanth
Genre: Crime Action Comedy
Set in the bustling underbelly of Kuala Lumpur, ACE follows Vijay Sethupathi’s character, a charismatic misfit caught between romantic entanglements and crime lords. With a gritty aesthetic and sharp dialogues, the film balances comedy and thriller elements, showcasing Sethupathi’s incredible range.
If you’re looking for fast-paced storytelling with unpredictable twists, ACE is a sure bet.
Narivetta – A Stirring Tale of Land, Justice, and Resistance
Starring: Tovino Thomas, Suraj Venjaramoodu
Genre: Political Drama / Thriller
Language: Malayalam
Narivetta is inspired by real-life events, highlighting the socio-political struggles of a tribal community resisting exploitation and displacement. Tovino Thomas plays a principled young police officer drawn into a moral and legal storm.
With a powerful script and grounded performances, this political thriller examines questions of justice, governance, and indigenous rights. It’s a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and dialogue.
Final Thoughts: Which Film Will You Watch First?
From high-stakes historical epics to indie reflections and family favourites, the Friday Theatre Releases on May 23, 2025 offer unmissable cinematic experiences. Whether you’re looking for a deep emotional story, a thrill ride, or just a good laugh, theatres this weekend have you covered.
So grab your popcorn, book your tickets, and head to your nearest cinema. Let the magic of movies transport you!
🎟️ Moviegoers’ Guide:
- Book tickets online: Paytm, BookMyShow, PVR INOX
- Languages available: Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, English (Lilo & Stitch – dubbed in multiple Indian languages)
- Runtime: Varies from 1h 45m to 2h 40m
- Genre highlights: Perfect blend of family fun, action, horror, romance, and socio-political realism
