‘I’m Game’: Dulquer Salman starrer out of Onam box-office race, set to release on this date

The release of I’m Game, headlined by Dulquer Salmaan, has been postponed, according to a post by the film’s official Instagram handle on Thursday. Directed by Nahas Hidhayath, the film was earlier slated to release on August 20 – the same day as Vysakh’s Khalifa starring Prithviraj Sukumaran.

With the postponement of I’m Game’s release, the Onam box-office clash will be between Khalifa and the Girish AD directorial Bethlehem Kudumba Unit — headlined by Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju — which releases on August 21. I’m Game will now release on September 03, 2026.

The post from the makers states, “The game gets bigger. The release gets wider. We understand the anticipation, and we apologize for the delay, but I’m Game will now release worldwide on 3rd September, moving from its earlier release date of 20th August.”

“The new release date comes with a larger vision for the film as I’m Game gears up for a wider theatrical release across markets. This decision has been made to give #imgame the scale, reach, and theatrical platform it truly deserves, allowing audiences across different markets to experience it on the big screen.”

I’m Game, with Dulquer playing Dan John, has a star-studded cast that includes Kayadu Lohar, Mysskin, Antony Varghese, Samyuktha Viswanathan, Vinay Forrt, and Kathir. Nahas has written the movie’s story, while Sajeer Baba, Bilal Moidu, and Ismail Aboobacker have penned the film’s screenplay.

I’m Game, produced by Dulquer under the banner of Wayfarer Films, marks the actor’s return to Malayalam cinema in a lead role. He was last seen in Malayalam in Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, where he played a cameo role. His last film as the lead in Malayalam, King of Kotha, directed by Abhilash Joshiy, failed at the box office, despite its hype.

Jimshi Khalid has done the cinematography for the movie, while Chaman Chakko is the editor. Jakes Bejoy handles the music and the film’s original score.

I’m Game also marks Nahas Hidhayath’s sophomore film, following a successful debut with the action flick RDX(2023) starring Shane Nigam, Antony Varghese and Neeraj Madhav. Toxic, the pan-Indian movie originally shot in Kannada and English, also enters the box-office race during the packed week. Directed by Geetu Mohandas and starring Yash, the action drama hits the screens on August 26.