As the first weekend of 2026 kicks off, streaming giants are wasting no time in delivering a diverse platter of must-watch content. This Friday’s OTT releases brings audiences at home a mix of intense drama and emotional storytelling which is ideal for viewers who want something engaging rather than easy background viewing.
So, whether you are looking to catch up on the latest Bollywood digital premieres or to explore experimental international cinema, the platforms have ultimately curated a selection that prioritizes quality storytelling. Here is a breakdown of the top titles hitting your screens this Friday to help you navigate your weekend binge list.
Haq
Directed by Suparn S. Varma, this legal drama stars Yami Gautam Dhar as Shazia, a homemaker who is suddenly abandoned by her husband, played by Emraan Hashmi. The plot depicts her courageous fight for maintenance through the Indian court system after being divorced via triple talaq – eventually turning a personal betrayal into a historic constitutional battle for women’s rights.
Where to watch: Netflix
Beauty
J. S. S. Vardhan directs this Telugu romantic drama featuring Ankith Koyya and Nilakhi Patra. The plot centers on a youthful romance between Arjun and Alekhya that faces significant hurdles due to their differing social backgrounds and parental expectations. While the first half focuses on their budding relationship, the second half introduces a major twist involving Alekhya’s father, played by veteran actor Naresh, that challenges the couple’s future.
Where to watch: ZEE5
The Smashing Machine
Dwayne Johnson delivers a career-defining performance as MMA pioneer Mark Kerr in this biopic helmed by Benny Safdie. Featuring Emily Blunt as Kerr’s wife, the film captures the brutal reality of the early UFC era, specifically showing the fighter’s internal struggle with a crippling addiction to painkillers amidst his rise to global fame.
Where to watch: Prime Video
After the Quake
This anthology project, based on the short stories by Haruki Murakami, is directed by Tsuyoshi Inoue and features an ensemble cast including Hidetoshi Nishijima. The episodes capture the quiet, lingering psychological impact felt by various individuals following the 1995 Kobe earthquake. Through a series of vignettes, the film shows how the disaster forced people far from the epicenter to confront the internal emptiness in their own lives and relationships.
Where to watch: Netflix
Follow My Voice
Directed by Inés Pintor and Pablo Santidrián, this Spanish teen drama – originally titled Sigue mi voz – stars Berta Castañé and Jae Woo Yang. Based on the popular Wattpad novel by Ariana Godoy, the plot follows Klara, a girl struggling with mental health issues who finds solace in a radio show. She eventually falls in love with the host’s voice, sparking a journey of self-discovery as she tries to overcome her fears and re-enter the outside world.
Where to watch: Prime Video