Relax... 2017 may have been one of the worst years as far as the Hindi film industry is concerned [flops and more flops!], but the year has definitely concluded on a euphoric note. TIGER ZINDA HAI has brought cheer, made the mood upbeat and the distributors/exhibitors - the backbone of the film industry - are sounding optimistic. The wave of pessimism has swept away, thankfully. Boxoffice is breathing... finally!
TIGER ZINDA HAI was expected to open big. A monstrous start was definitely on the cards. Going back a bit, one could gauge the enthusiasm when the trailer was launched. It being the second instalment in the TIGER series also raised the expectations. Most importantly, the thought of watching Salman Khan in an action avatar, combating an international enemy, added to the hype.
Timing the film during festivals / holidays has become a norm these days and TIGER ZINDA HAI stands to benefit because it opened prior to Christmas and New Year, which is celebrated in a big way worldwide. The business gets an impetus and the long holiday period gives the film an opportunity to recover a substantial chunk of investment, if the audience mandate is positive.
Budgeted at Rs 150 cr [Cost of Production: Rs 130 cr + Print & Advertising: Rs 20 cr], TIGER ZINDA HAI is an expensive film and Yash Raj has recovered the investment from pre-sales [Satellite, Digital and Audio rights] itself. The business accrued from India and Overseas theatrical is crucial because it’s an indicator of star power and content of the film.
As TIGER ZINDA HAI continues to roar, Salman can heave a sigh of relief. TUBELIGHT, which opened during Eid festivities, failed to recreate the magic of BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN and made holes in the pocket of its distributors. TIGER ZINDA HAI had to deliver massive numbers and fortunately for Salman, Katrina and YRF [all three entities needed that big hit!], the film is all set for a meritorious run at the ticket counters.
Earlier this month, FUKREY RETURNS brought abundant sunshine in an otherwise gloomy scenario. The producers - Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar - had to pull it off to establish FUKREY as a brand. It was a gamble that’s paid rich dividends. Prior to that, GOLMAAL RETURNS emerged the highest grosser in the GOLMAAL series. Are sequels / instalments the new mantra for success?
Umeed pe duniya kaayam hain. Here’s hoping and praying that the optimism and luck extends to the films slated for release in 2018 and they continue to set the cash registers jingling. Fingers crossed!
