Karthik Subbaraj’s Dorothy has arrived in Indian theatres, but the Keerthy Suresh starrer is already making headlines over its content.
The film, which has been among the filmmaker’s most anticipated projects, has reportedly faced a setback in Malaysia. The news comes days after Dorothy made its international debut winning praise from audiences and film enthusiasts. As the film has begun its theatrical run in India, here’s a look at the latest reports surrounding its overseas release and the reasons cited for the reported halt in Malaysia.
Dorothy’ Reportedly Denied Release In Malaysia
According to The Hindu Tamil Dorothy has reportedly been denied a theatrical release in Malaysia. The report claimed that the film faced the setback over LGBTQ-related content, while same-sex attraction in the plot was among the reasons cited.
However, these remain media reports and an official Malaysian censorship order has not been cited in the available details online. The exact reason for the reported denial has not been confirmed. The report has attracted attention as Dorothy released in Indian theatres on September 25. The film is set in rural Tamil Nadu in the early 1990s and revolves around childhood friends Karthi and Subbu, played by Rishikanth and Sananth. Their lives take an unexpected turn after Dorothy, portrayed by Keerthy Suresh, enters their world.
The story explores friendship, love and conflict while addressing caste divisions, violence, masculinity and expectations. As the characters confront complicated beliefs and circumstances, the friendship at the heart of the story begins to change.
Dorothy Gets Standing Ovation At TIFF
Before its Indian theatrical release, Dorothy had its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival on September 12. The film screened in the festival’s Centrepiece section and reportedly received a standing ovation. Karthik Subbaraj, Keerthy Suresh, Sananth, Rishikanth and producers Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain were present at the premiere. Dorothy was also reported to be the first Tamil feature to premiere at TIFF in a decade.
Keerthy recently recalled how Subbaraj approached her with the project. “Karthik Subbaraj sir first sent me the synopsis and asked me, ‘Would you be interested in doing a film like this?’ After reading it, I immediately told him, ‘Definitely, I will do it, sir,'” she said.
The film marks Karthik Subbaraj’s 10th directorial venture. He has also produced the project under Dhammam Films alongside Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain of Sikhya Entertainment and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios.
Music for Dorothy has been composed by veteran filmmaker-composer Ilaiyaraaja, marking his first collaboration with Karthik Subbaraj. S Thirunavukkarasu serves as cinematographer, while Ganesh Siva is the editor.