Varun Tej’s much-anticipated gangster drama Matka is gearing up for its digital debut on Prime Video. Despite its underwhelming performance at the box office, the film’s OTT release offers a fresh opportunity to connect with audiences. Directed by Karun Kumar, renowned for his work in Palasa, Matka takes viewers on a gripping journey through the notorious Matka gambling scandals in India from 1958 to 1982.
Matka OTT Release Date
Matka is all set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on 05 December 2024.
Made on a reported budget of ₹35 crores, Matka was expected to be one of Varun Tej’s career-defining films. However, the movie struggled to make an impact at the box office, earning only ₹3.45 crores in its first week.
Critics and audiences had mixed reactions, with praise for the period setting and Varun Tej’s performance, but criticism of its predictable and clichéd storyline. Despite its theatrical struggles, Matka holds significant potential in the OTT space.
Prime Video, which secured the film’s post-theatrical streaming rights, announced that Matka will be available for streaming worldwide starting December 5, 2024.
When and Where to Matka
You can watch this crime drama on 05 December 2024, on Amazon Prime Video.
The OTT release comes just three weeks after its theatrical debut, a strategic move to attract a broader audience who might have missed it in cinemas. The film will be available in multiple languages, including Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi, expanding its reach across India.
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While Matka struggled to gain traction in theatres, its digital release could spark renewed interest. OTT platforms often provide a second life for movies, and Matka’s rich storyline and ensemble cast make it an appealing choice for viewers seeking crime dramas and period films.
Matka Movie Story
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Vizag, Matka delves into the tumultuous world of gambling through the life of Ratan Katri, played by Varun Tej. The movie traces his transformation from a humble individual into a powerful and infamous Matka king. Fueled by greed and ambition, Ratan climbs the ranks, becoming a key figure in India’s underground gambling network.
The story also introduces Vasu, a spirited refugee from Burma, whose journey of rising from rags to riches is intricately woven into the narrative. The film offers a rich blend of crime, drama, and action, portraying the highs and lows of its characters as they navigate a world ruled by risk and reward.
Cast and crew of Matka
The film boasts a stellar cast: Varun Tej: In the lead role of Ratan Katri, showcasing a darker, more intense side of his acting repertoire. Meenakshi Chaudhary: Plays the female lead, bringing grace and depth to her role.
Nora Fatehi: Bollywood beauty who plays a significant role, adding star power to the cast. Naveen Chandra, Kishore Kumar G, and Ajay Ghosh: Deliver powerful performances in pivotal roles.
Behind the scenes, Matka was crafted by a talented crew: Director: Karun Kumar, known for his gritty storytelling in Palasa. Producers: Dr. Vijayender Reddy Theegala and Rajini Talluri, under Vyra Entertainments and SRT Entertainments.
Music Composer: G.V. Prakash Kumar, whose soulful tracks and impactful background score amplify the narrative. Cinematographer: A. Kishor Kumar, who masterfully captures the period’s aesthetics and the raw essence of Vizag.
Gripping Historical Context: Set in the period between 1958 and 1982, Matka offers a deep dive into India’s gambling underworld. It paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, capturing the socio-political dynamics of the time.
Stellar Performances: Varun Tej delivers a compelling performance as Ratan Katri, showcasing the transformation of a man consumed by greed and power. Supporting cast members, including Meenakshi Chaudhary and Nora Fatehi, enhance the film’s appeal.
Rich Production Values: With its detailed period setups, authentic costumes, and gripping cinematography, Matka successfully transports viewers to the golden age of Vizag’s underground world.
Soulful Music: G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music and background score elevate the film’s emotional and action-packed moments, making it a key highlight.
Convenience of OTT Viewing: The film’s release on Prime Video allows audiences to enjoy it from the comfort of their homes, especially those who prefer binge-watching content in multiple languages.
The film’s portrayal of gambling scandals, along with its gritty narrative, could resonate with an OTT audience looking for something unique. Whether Matka will gain the recognition it missed during its theatrical run remains to be seen.
Matka is set to embark on a new chapter with its digital release on Prime Video on December 5, 2024. While it faced challenges in cinemas, the film’s intriguing storyline, powerful performances, and lavish production values give it strong potential to connect with a wider audience on OTT platforms.
Whether you’re a fan of Varun Tej, a lover of period dramas, or simply intrigued by stories of crime and ambition, Matka offers a compelling cinematic experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore the rise and fall of Ratan Katri and the tumultuous world of Matka gambling when the film streams on Prime Video.