Pradeep Ranganathan’s Dude, directed by debutant Keerthiswaran, was released in theatres on October 17 as a Diwali special. The film received mixed responses from audiences but still managed to make a strong mark at the box office.
Despite the divided reviews, Dude collected over ₹100 crores worldwide, making it the third consecutive 100-crore hit for Pradeep Ranganathan after Love Today and Dragon.
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Now, after a successful theatrical run, Dude is ready for its OTT premiere. The film will begin streaming on Netflix from November 14 in five languages Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi.
Following the OTT release announcement, social media discussions have intensified. Many are curious about how digital audiences will respond to the film’s bold and progressive theme. Some predict that Dude could turn into a troll fest online, sparking widespread debates.
During its theatrical run, the film’s urban audiences accepted its modern take, while several viewers in B and C centres criticised its storyline. Many felt that the subject matter was “too unrealistic” and “disgusting” for the current social climate. Critics claimed that in an attempt to appear progressive, the filmmakers overextended several scenes, making the tone feel odd at times.
As Dude readies for its OTT debut, netizens are split some expect it to face intense trolling, while others believe it might find a second life among digital audiences who are more open to experimental storytelling.
Whether Dude becomes a streaming blockbuster or a meme-filled troll fest will be clear once it drops on Netflix on November 14.
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