From 'Toxic' To 'Batwara 1947': August's Biggest Theatrical Releases
Planning a trip to the cinema? Explore every major movie releasing in theatres this August 2026, from Yash's 'Toxic' to Sunny Deol's 'Batwara 1947' and more.
August has long been one of the biggest months for cinema, and 2026 is shaping up to continue that tradition in spectacular fashion. With the Independence Day holiday boosting box office prospects and studios rolling out some of their most anticipated titles, theatres are set for a packed month. From big-budget Bollywood entertainers and pan-India spectacles to Hollywood superhero blockbusters, horror thrillers, animated adventures and action-packed dramas, August 2026 offers something for every kind of moviegoer, making it one of the year's most exciting months for theatrical releases.
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Whether you're planning a weekend movie outing or keeping track of upcoming releases, here's a look at the biggest films expected to hit theatres this month:
1. Prahaar: The Ujjwal Nikam Story
The upcoming biographical legal drama will revolve around the career of public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam (Rajkummar Rao), revisiting some of India's most significant criminal cases. The film explores his role in landmark trials linked to the 1993 Bombay bomb blasts and the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, examining the legal battles, political pressures, and personal sacrifices behind the pursuit of justice. The movie, directed by Avinash Arun, will also feature Wamiqa Gabbi, Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher.
Prahaar: The Ujjwal Nikam Story Release Date: August 7
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2. Ohh My Dog
Rajkummar Rao’s ‘Prahaar: The Ujjwal Nikam Story’ will clash with Pankaj Tripathi’s ‘Ohh My Dog’ in theatres. Directed by Amit Rai, the heartwarming family drama will celebrate the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs. The film follows a young child who forms an unexpected friendship with a stray dog, setting off an emotional journey filled with adventure, compassion and life-changing lessons. The movie will also star Pawan Malhotra, Rajesh Kumar, Geeta Agrawal Sharma and debutant Maahi Rai.
Ohh My Dog Release Date: August 7
3. G.D.N
R. Madhavan headlines this ambitious biographical period drama based on the life of legendary inventor, industrialist and entrepreneur G.D. Naidu, often hailed as the "Edison of India". Rather than chronicling his entire life, the film focuses on the defining chapter in which Naidu battles powerful authorities determined to suppress his groundbreaking innovations and vision for India's future. Directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, ‘G.D.N’ also stars Priyamani, Sathyaraj, Jayaram, Dushara Vijayan and Vinay Rai in pivotal roles.
G.D.N Release Date: August 7
4. DC: The Bloody Valentine
Filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj makes his acting debut with ‘DC: The Bloody Valentine’, a gritty action thriller directed by Arun Matheswaran. Set against a backdrop of crime, revenge and gang warfare, the film follows Devadas, a mysterious man whose violent mission spirals into a brutal battle where loyalty, love and survival collide. Featuring Wamiqa Gabbi, Sanjana Krishnamoorthy, Avinash Raghudevan and Kasthuri Raja alongside Lokesh, the film is backed by Sun Pictures with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.
DC: The Bloody Valentine Release Date: August 7
5. Super Troopers 3
The cult comedy franchise returns after eight years with another outrageous adventure featuring the Broken Lizard team. This time, the eccentric Vermont state troopers find themselves juggling a chaotic wedding, an over-the-top engagement involving Farva, and a dangerous new drug ring, leading to yet another string of absurd investigations and hilarious misadventures. Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar, the film stars Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, Erik Stolhanske, Brian Cox and Marisa Coughlan.
Super Troopers 3 Release Date: August 7
6. Awarapan 2
Emraan Hashmi will return to one of the most loved characters of his career with ‘Awarapan 2’, nearly two decades after the original film achieved cult status among audiences. Directed by Nitin Kakkar and backed by Vishesh Films, the romantic action drama serves as a continuation of the 2007 classic. Joining Emraan Hashmi in the sequel are Disha Patani and veteran actress Shabana Azmi, raising expectations for one of the month's most anticipated Bollywood releases.
Awarapan 2 Release Date: August 14
7. Batwara 1947
Rajkumar Santoshi returns to the director's chair with ‘Batwara 1947’, a period drama set against the turmoil of India's Partition. Produced by Aamir Khan Productions, the film explores the human cost of the division of Punjab through a story set in Lahore.
Sunny Deol leads the ensemble cast, alongside Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi, Ali Fazal, Karan Deol, Abhimanyu Singh, Khushi Hajare and Kanikka Kapur. The film is adapted from Asghar Wajahat's acclaimed play ‘Jis Lahore Nai Vekhya, O Jamya E Nai’ and also marks Preity Zinta's return to the big screen after an extended break from acting.
Batwara 1947 Release Date: August 14
8. The End Of Oak Street
Directed by David Robert Mitchell, the science-fiction survival thriller stars Anne Hathaway, Ewan McGregor, Maisy Stella and Christian Convery. The story follows a family whose seemingly peaceful neighbourhood is thrown into chaos after mysterious prehistoric creatures begin appearing without explanation.
The End Of Oak Street Release Date: August 14
9. One Night Only
Directed by Will Gluck, this romantic comedy unfolds in a slightly fictionalised New York City where, for one night every year, single people are legally allowed to have s*x. Recently heartbroken Owen and hopeless romantic Allie unexpectedly cross paths while searching for something deeper than a casual encounter, only for a series of hilarious mishaps to repeatedly keep them apart. The film stars Monica Barbaro, Callum Turner, Maya Hawke, Julia Fox and King Princess.
One Night Only Release Date: August 14
10. I Am Game
After winning audiences across languages with films such as ‘Sita Ramam’, ‘Bangalore Days’ and ‘Lucky Baskhar’, Dulquer Salmaan is returning with ‘I Am Game’. While the makers have kept story details under wraps, the actor's growing popularity across India has already made the film one of the month's closely watched releases. Directed by Nahas Hidhayath, the upcoming movie also stars Kayadu Lohar, Antony Varghese, Mysskin, and Samyuktha Viswanathan.
I Am Game Release Date: August 20
11. Khalifa
Prithviraj Sukumaran headlines this ambitious action thriller, playing Aamir Ali, the heir to a powerful gold-smuggling empire stretching from the Middle East to India. As rival gangs, betrayals and family rivalries threaten his criminal dynasty, he is drawn into a brutal battle for survival, revenge and legacy. Directed by Vysakh, the film also stars Tovino Thomas, Mohanlal, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Malavika Sharma and Krithi Shetty in pivotal roles.
Khalifa Release Date: August 20
12. Insidious: Out of the Further
Horror fans have another reason to visit cinemas as ‘Insidious: Out of the Further’ expands the long-running supernatural franchise. Directed by Jacob Chase, the sixth instalment follows a young woman gifted with the ability to communicate with spirits, only to become the target of terrifying paranormal forces. Amelia Eve, Brandon Perea and Maisie Richardson-Sellers headline the cast, while franchise favourite Lin Shaye returns to reprise her iconic role.
Insidious: Out of the Further Release Date: August 20
13. Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups
Among the biggest attractions of the month is Yash’s ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the ambitious period gangster drama features Yash in a dual role alongside Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria and Rukmini Vasanth.
Mounted on a reported budget of Rs 850-1,000 crore, ‘Toxic’ is expected to become the most expensive Indian film ever produced. Its scale, star cast and pan-India appeal have already generated enormous anticipation ahead of release.
Toxic Release Date: August 26
14. Khosla Ka Ghosla 2
Dibakar Banerjee returns to the world of one of Hindi cinema's most loved comedies with ‘Khosla Ka Ghosla 2’. The film stars Anupam Kher, Boman Irani and Ranvir Shorey. Nearly two decades after the original, the Khosla family once again finds itself entangled in a chaotic property dispute that spirals into an elaborate con. As middle-class aspirations collide with cunning fraudsters, the sequel promises to blend nostalgia with fresh humour and unexpected twists.
Khosla Ka Ghosla 2 Release Date: August 28
15. Eetha
Shraddha Kapoor headlines this biographical musical drama based on the life of legendary Maharashtrian Tamasha and Lavani icon Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Directed by Laxman Utekar, the film traces Vithabai’s remarkable rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of India's greatest folk performers, while exploring the personal struggles, sacrifices and resilience behind her extraordinary legacy. The film also stars Randeep Hooda, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Nana Patekar, Siddharth Jadhav and Anant Joshi in pivotal roles.
Eetha Release Date: August 28
16. The Dog Stars
Ridley Scott directs this post-apocalyptic survival thriller based on Peter Heller's acclaimed novel. The story follows Hig, a young pilot who has built an isolated existence with a hardened survivalist after a devastating pandemic. When he intercepts a mysterious radio transmission, Hig embarks on a perilous journey in search of hope and human connection. The film stars Jacob Elordi, Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley, Guy Pearce, Benedict Wong and Allison Janney.
The Dog Stars Release Date: August 28
17. Coyote vs. Acme
One of the year's biggest family entertainers, this live-action, animated comedy follows Wile E. Coyote as he finally sues the Acme Corporation after decades of malfunctioning gadgets foil his attempts to catch the Road Runner. Teaming up with an unlikely lawyer, Coyote takes on a powerful corporate giant in a courtroom battle packed with classic Looney Tunes humour. Directed by Dave Green, the film stars Will Forte, John Cena and Lana Condor alongside beloved animated characters.
Coyote vs. Acme Release Date: August 28
