Netflix Premieres "The Girlfriend": Rashmika Mandanna’s Powerful Take on Toxic Relationships

"The Girlfriend," a Telugu-language film starring Rashmika Mandanna and directed by National Award winner Rahul Ravindran, premiered on Netflix on December 5, 2025. Following its theatrical release on November 7, 2025, where it gained positive word-of-mouth and critical appreciation, the film is now accessible in multiple languages including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, expanding its reach across Indian audiences.

The story follows Bhooma Devi (played by Rashmika Mandanna), a young, bright literature master's student who moves to Hyderabad and encounters Vikram, a charming senior portrayed by Dheekshith Shetty. What begins as an affectionate relationship soon reveals darker themes of control, manipulation, and gaslighting, highlighting the emotional abuse experienced by Bhooma. The narrative delves deeply into Bhooma’s struggles with shame, confusion, and societal pressures, progressively chronicling her painful journey towards self-discovery and liberation.

Rashmika Mandanna’s performance has been widely praised for its emotional authenticity and depth, with many viewers resonating with the film's candid portrayal of toxic relationships and women's empowerment. The film’s exploration of obsession, emotional abuse, and self-identity has sparked meaningful conversations among audiences, particularly younger viewers.

Initially conceptualized as a web series, the project evolved into a cinematic format to capture the story’s emotional intensity with greater impact. Alongside Rashmika and Dheekshith, the supporting cast includes Anu Emmanuel, Rao Ramesh, and Rohini, contributing to the dramatic tension. The film features music by Hesham Abdul Wahab and is shot in locations across Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

On the digital front, "The Girlfriend" is expected to enjoy renewed popularity as it becomes accessible to home viewers. The film's depiction of toxic cycles and patriarchal societal expectations has garnered attention not only for entertainment value but also for its social relevance, marking it as a notable contribution to contemporary Indian cinema addressing women's issues.