HIT 3 OTT release date confirmed: Nani's crime thriller to stream earlier than expected. Where and when to watch?

Telugu action thriller HIT: The Third Case, starring Nani and Srinidhi Shetty, is gearing up for its digital release after a successful theatrical run. Released in cinemas on May 1, 2025, the film received largely positive reviews from critics and audiences. With a domestic box office haul of Rs 79.05 crore and global earnings of Rs 117.25 crore within just 19 days, the movie has emerged as the highest-grossing film in Nani's career, crossing Rs 120 crore globally.

The film's strong performance at the box office was also significant for the Telugu film industry, offering a much-needed boost following several underwhelming releases. Produced by Nani and Prashanti Tipirneni under Wall Poster Cinema and Unanimous Productions, the project was made on a budget of Rs 64 crore and has already secured profits from its digital rights.

Netflix to Stream HIT 3 Earlier Than Expected
Netflix has officially added HIT: The Third Case to its "Coming Soon" section, confirming the film will begin streaming on May 29, 2025. This comes as a surprise to many, as earlier reports had hinted at a June 5 release. Although the streaming giant and the film’s makers have not made formal social media announcements, the listing on Netflix has stirred excitement among fans waiting to watch it from home.

This early digital release strategy marks a shift from the traditional four-week theatrical window observed by many Telugu films. The movie is set to premiere in multiple languages including Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi, expanding its audience reach significantly.

Storyline and Star Cast
HIT: The Third Case is the third installment in the popular HIT franchise, directed by Sailesh Kolanu, who is being praised for his gripping storytelling. The narrative follows Arjun Sarkaar, an officer transferred to HIT Visakhapatnam, who becomes entangled in a brutal murder investigation. The film takes a dark turn as Arjun is introduced as a prisoner recounting past events to a fellow inmate, unveiling a deeper undercover operation targeting a cult-like criminal network.

The film also features Surya Srinivas, Vishwak Sen, Adil Pala, Prateik Babbar, and Tisca Chopra. Adivi Sesh, the lead from HIT: The Second Case, appears in a surprise climax cameo, which thrilled fans of the franchise. Srinidhi Shetty, who makes her Tollywood debut, plays a key role in the film.

This marks yet another successful OTT collaboration for Nani, who has maintained a strong presence on Netflix. His previous films have also been picked up by the platform, and reports suggest that his upcoming project, The Paradise, will follow the same path.

HIT 3 was rated A due to its intense violence, which might have limited its theatrical audience. However, with the OTT release, the film is expected to reach a wider demographic. Reports also suggest that the Netflix version may include extended sequences that were omitted in theaters, making it an even more compelling watch for fans of the genre.

The background score and music, composed by Mickey J Meyer, have been appreciated for enhancing the film's intense mood. Director Sailesh Kolanu, known for Saindhav, has earned accolades for his nuanced storytelling and ability to maintain suspense throughout the film.