The Tamil comedy-drama "Tourist Family," directed by Abishan Jeevinth, is experiencing an impressive run in theaters, leading to a shift in its over-the-top (OTT) premiere plans. Initially slated for release on streaming platforms in late May, the film's digital debut has been reportedly pushed back to June 6, 2025, courtesy of its continued box office success.
"Tourist Family," which stars Sasikumar and Simran in leading roles, premiered in theaters on May 1, 2025. The film portrays the challenges faced by a Sri Lankan Tamil family amidst the country's economic crisis. The family seeks refuge and a fresh start in India, navigating the difficulties of displacement and adapting to a new life. The movie has resonated well with audiences, garnering positive reviews for its emotional depth, relatable characters, and the performances of its cast, including Yogi Babu, M.S. Bhaskar, and Ramesh Thilak.
The film's success at the box office has been remarkable. Made on a budget of approximately ₹16 crore, "Tourist Family" has grossed over ₹75 crore (US$8.9 million) worldwide, becoming the fifth highest-grossing Tamil film of 2025. This impressive performance has surpassed Sasikumar's previous highest grossers, such as "Sundara Pandian" and "Kutti Pulli," marking a career-best for the actor. By May 17, 2025, the film had already achieved a 193% profit, establishing itself as one of the most profitable Tamil films of the year.
Given the film's continued strong performance in theaters, the filmmakers requested an extension from JioHotstar, which acquired the streaming rights, to keep "Tourist Family" on the big screen for a longer period. While JioHotstar has not yet made an official announcement regarding the new OTT release date, industry trackers suggest that the film is now expected to premiere online on June 6, 2025.
The decision to postpone the OTT release highlights the evolving dynamics between theatrical releases and streaming platforms. In the past, films typically transitioned to streaming services within a few weeks of their theatrical debut. However, the success of "Tourist Family" demonstrates that films with strong word-of-mouth and positive audience reception can sustain a theatrical run for a longer duration, prompting filmmakers to prioritize the cinema experience.
"Tourist Family" joins the ranks of other successful Tamil films in 2025, including "Vidaamuyarchi," "Dragon," "Good Bad Ugly," and "Retro." The film's box office triumph not only underscores the strength of its content but also highlights the importance of relatable storytelling and compelling performances in capturing audience attention. The delay in its OTT release is a testament to its enduring appeal and the continued demand to experience it in theaters.
