The second quarter has begun with a bang. Last week, a wave of pessimism had gripped the corridors of the film industry after HIMMATWALA emerged a financial setback. Apparently, when a big-budget film fails, the repercussions are felt across the length and breadth of the trade. But the immediate release, CHASHME BADDOOR, has brought about a wave of optimism, especially amongst those in the thick of medium-range movies.
I distinctly remember, when Viacom18 and David Dhawan decided to join hands to remake CHASHME BADDOOR, a section of the industry had opined that David was playing with fire. David was no longer the badshaah of entertainers after the failure of RASCALS... the title had been snatched from him by the same people who eulogized the film-maker when he delivered hit after hit not too long ago. One Friday changes equations here!
The bigger gamble was the casting of CHASHME BADDOOR. Having worked with A-list stars all through his career, David had to prove that he was no spent force, that he had it in him, that he could adapt to the changing times effortlessly, that he could deliver a success with relative newcomers too… The gamble has paid off, with CHASHME BADDOOR packing a solid punch in its opening weekend and maintaining very well on weekdays. The moviegoer is laughing to the on-screen antics of the three boys, while the investors of this mid-range film are sure to laugh all the way to the bank.
CHASHME BADDOOR has cost around Rs 20 cr to make, which includes the P and A expenses and more than 50% of it has been recovered from the sale of its Satellite rights. The balance amount should be a cakewalk for its investors. Hit hain boss!
PS: CHASHME BADDOOR has withstood a strong opponent like IPL. So the next time someone deters a film-maker against releasing the film during cricket matches, give them references of BIWI NO. 1 [World Cup], JANNAT, HOUSEFULL series and CHASHME BADDOOR swimming against the tide and emerging success stories!
