Karthik Subbaraj’s latest Tamil film Dorothy", starring Keerthy Suresh in the lead, released in theatres on September 25, 2026 and went on to divide audiences and how. While many loved the subject at the core of the film, others hated it. The film released with an OTT partner firmly in place and will drop on Netflix after its theatrical run.
The Netflix acquisition was revealed through the film’s theatrical credits, where the streaming giant is listed as its post-theatrical digital partner. While the makers are yet to announce the official OTT premiere date, the credit confirms that Netflix will be the platform to stream Dorothy after its theatrical window. Going by the usual window, Dorothy should drop on the platform after the 4-week mark in October.
Also read: Dorothy Movie Review: Karthik Subbaraj finds love and liberation in a story of toxic masculinity
Dorothy hit theatres on September 25 and has been generating attention for its unusual storyline and Karthik Subbaraj’s distinctive filmmaking style. The film was promoted initially as a different kind of romantic drama, but the narrative gradually reveals its central conflict surrounding the title character.
A bold subject
Keerthy Suresh plays Dorothy, with Sananth and Rishikanth seen in key roles. The film features music by the legendary Ilaiyaraaja and marks another interesting addition to Karthik Subbaraj’s filmography.
The director had kept much of the film’s plot under wraps ahead of its release, with the promotional material giving audiences limited clues about the actual story. This mystery surrounding the film was one of the key talking points leading up to its theatrical release.
Dorothy uses the story of childhood friends Karthi (Rishikanth) and Subbu (Sananth) to explore gender identity, transgender acceptance and the rigid ideas of masculinity prevalent in a rural society. Set against the backdrop of 1990s Tamil Nadu, the film initially presents Subbu as a confident young man who grows up believing that men must be strong, fearless and never show vulnerability.
Also read: Dorothy: Karthik Subbaraj’s bold story works, but Keerthy Suresh gets a raw deal
As the story progresses, it is revealed that Subbu has long struggled with his gender identity and eventually chooses to live as a woman. She takes the name Dorothy, embracing an identity that she had kept suppressed for years. This transformation becomes the central emotional conflict of the film, particularly for Karthi, her childhood friend, who initially struggles to accept the person Subbu has become.
With Netflix now confirmed as the OTT partner through the theatrical credits, Dorothy is expected to reach a much wider audience once its streaming premiere is announced.
