From 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' to 'Citadel 2', the only watchlist you'll need this May

May leans unapologetically cinematic. With major theatrical releases like The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Raja Shivaji arriving on the same day, the month kicks off with serious star power and scale. On OTT, global franchises continue to expand, with Citadel returning for another high-stakes season, while literary adaptations and offbeat titles bring variety to the mix.

There is also a strong thread of reinvention running through May. From a classic novel like Lord of the Flies getting a fresh screen treatment to contemporary romance adaptations and intimate dramas, the month offers a mix of familiarity and newness. Here is everything to add to your watchlist.

The Devil Wears Prada 2

The Devil Wears Prada 2 brings audiences back into the high-fashion world that made the original iconic. The sequel revisits the evolving dynamics of fashion media, power, and ambition, with familiar faces of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, and a story that reflects how the industry has changed.

When: May 1, 2026
Where: In theatres

Raja Shivaji

A historical epic centred on the life and legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Raja Shivaji explores leadership, strategy, and resistance. With a grand scale and rooted storytelling, the film, starring Riteish Deshmukh in the titular role, brings a defining chapter of Indian history to the big screen.

When: May 1, 2026
Where: In theatres

Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies receives a new adaptation, revisiting the chilling story of young boys stranded on an island and the breakdown of order that follows. The narrative remains a powerful exploration of human nature, control, and survival.

When: May 4, 2026
Where: Netflix

Citadel Season 2

Citadel returns with more espionage, global stakes, and sleek action. The Priyanka Chopra Jonas-starrer continues to follow elite agents navigating memory loss, hidden identities, and a powerful enemy network, raising the scale in its second season.

When: May 6, 2026
Where: Prime Video

The Sheep Detectives

An offbeat mystery with a playful twist, The Sheep Detectives follows an unusual investigation that blends humour with crime-solving. With its quirky premise and light tone, it stands out as one of the more unconventional theatrical releases this month.

When: May 8, 2026
Where: In theatres

Song Sung Blue

Inspired by real events, Song Sung Blue centres on music, identity, and the lives of performers navigating personal and professional highs and lows. With an emotional core and a strong musical backdrop, it leans into both nostalgia and storytelling.

When: May 9, 2026
Where: JioHotstar

Off-Campus

Off-Campus makes its screen debut with a story rooted in college life, relationships, and self-discovery. Known for its romance and character-driven arcs, the adaptation is expected to capture the charm and drama that made the books popular.

When: May 13, 2026
Where: Prime Video

Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed

A contemporary drama that explores desire, relationships, and personal agency, Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed leans into bold storytelling and layered characters. The story kicks off when a newly-divorced mom falls down a rabbit hole of blackmail, murder, and mystery, while struggling through a custody battle herself, and decides to take matters into her own hands.

When: May 20, 2026
Where: Apple TV

Chand Mera Dil

A quintessential romance that blends emotion, music, and drama, Chand Mera Dil, starring Ananya Panday and Lakshya Lalwani, centres on themes of love and longing against a visually rich backdrop. Expect a classic Bollywood-style narrative with a modern touch.

When: May 22, 2026
Where: In theatres

Lead image: IMDb

Also read: 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' finds new rules in a collapsing old world

Also read: Rasika Dugal on perception, patriarchy, and the roles women are finally claiming