45 OTT Release Date: Shivaraj Kumar's Kannada Film Set For Online Release

Despite bringing together three big names from the Kannada film industry, 45 couldn't quite create the kind of buzz it hoped for at the box office. The film had decent expectations riding on it, thanks to its unique concept and star power, but its theatrical run turned out to be fairly muted. Now, however, the movie is all set to get a second life, this time on OTT.

Headlined by Shivarajkumar, Upendra and Raj B Shetty, 45 has been steadily gaining attention again as audiences who skipped it in theatres are beginning to look forward to its digital release. With more viewers preferring to catch content at home, the OTT window could work in the film's favour.

The movie is written and directed by noted music composer Arjun Janya, who made his foray into filmmaking with this project. Unlike mainstream action or mass entertainers, 45 attempts to explore deeper ideas around destiny, belief and the fragile nature of human life, making it a rather unconventional watch.

What is 45 about?

At the centre of the story is Vinay (played by Raj B Shetty), a software professional haunted by a disturbing dream in which he dies in a bike accident after hitting a dog. What starts off as a nightmare slowly creeps into reality when events from the dream begin unfolding in his real life.

The dog in question, Rossy, belongs to Rayappa (Upendra), a dreaded gangster who treats the animal like his own mother. When Rossy dies, Rayappa holds Vinay responsible and launches a brutal attack on him. More chillingly, he gives Vinay a deadline - he will be killed in 45 days.

From that moment on, Vinay's life spirals downward. As he begins counting his days, he loses his job, his girlfriend, and the support of his friends. Broken and fearful, he finds himself completely alone, unsure of how to escape his fate.

That's when Shiva (Shivarajkumar) enters his life. Calm, composed and almost saint-like, Shiva offers Vinay guidance and emotional support. Who Shiva really is, what his true purpose is, and whether Vinay survives the 45-day countdown form the core of the narrative.

45 OTT Release

The makers have now confirmed that 45 is heading to ZEE5 for its post-theatrical streaming run. The film will start streaming from January 23, giving it a chance to reach a much wider audience. For now, only the Kannada version has been announced for digital release, and there is no clarity yet on when the dubbed versions will arrive on the platform.

Many believe the OTT release could help the film find its audience, especially among viewers who enjoy concept-driven stories and philosophical themes.

A film rooted in belief and spirituality

What sets 45 apart is its spiritual foundation. The film draws inspiration from Sanatana Dharma, particularly the belief surrounding the 45-day period after a person's death, during which the soul's journey and destiny are believed to be decided. This idea is woven into the narrative, blending mythology, faith and human emotion.

While 45 may not have set cash registers ringing in theatres, its digital release could open the door to fresh appreciation - especially from viewers willing to engage with its thought-provoking themes rather than expect a typical commercial entertainer.