Content is king and the paying public, king makers. The success of JOLLY LLB signifies that a worthy film can withstand any opponent or challenge. Despite the on-going cricket matches, examination period and of course, two more films vying for audience attention, JOLLY LLB notched an imposing total in its opening weekend. A power-packed courtroom drama, the film won immense praise from critics who matter, while the final judges -- the paying public -- saw to it that the BO numbers continued to swell with each passing day.
TABLE NO. 21, ABCD - ANY BODY CAN DANCE, MURDER 3, KAI PO CHE, SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER RETURNS and now JOLLY LLB, made within controlled budgets, had interesting stories to narrate and it is this factor chiefly that caught the audience attention. Talking of JOLLY LLB, the satire on the judiciary struck a chord for yet another reason: The aam aadmi could connect with the goings-on.
MERE DAD KI MARUTI, like JOLLY LLB, also won rave reviews. Even the word of mouth is damn good. But, in my opinion, this film deserves more than what it's getting. The movie, targeted at youngistaan, was released at a time when the youth is deep neck into exams. But do producers have much choice these days? Have you glanced at the release chart that we update every Thursday? The release calendar is crammed with films and more films week after week. Where's the breathing space, frankly? An open week is out of question in today's times.
MERE DAD KI MARUTI is already in comfort zone as far as its economics go. Almost 80% of its investment [Rs 10 cr] has been recovered from in-film advertising and Satellite rights. The balance amount has to be recovered from theatrical rights, digital, music and Overseas, which should be a cakewalk for its makers.
The third release, 3G, was royally sidelined in this multiple film clash. Although this well-publicized movie found takers in mass-dominated circuits, the overall picture remained grim. Sure, the two other films made a dent in its business, but even otherwise, had there been no opponent, 3G would've found it difficult to stay afloat because it lacks a unified screenplay to enthrall the audience.
