In a year that has seen a handful of hits/super hits so far (Airlift, Housefull 3, Baaghi, Neerja, Kapoor & Sons, Ki & Ka), Sultan has come as a sign of relief. In 6 months before its release, there were just six outright successes. On the other hand the list of flops and disasters has been ever increasing. At last count, close to 50 notable films hit the screens that released in theatres across the country. However, out of these, an astonishing count of films (40) have been flops and disasters.
That's a strike rate of just 20% films that have earned a little money or brought in profits for its makers!
Now Sultan has managed to wipe away at least some part of the deficit that had started building up on an alarming rate. With Rs. 12.92 crore more coming in on Tuesday, the film's total currently stands at Rs. 208.82 crore. Considering the fact that the film is already in profits and there is a lot more to come (both from India and overseas), at least there is some level of money churning within the industry.
A lot more is needed though as just one Sultan won't be enough. There are many more films releasing in days and weeks and months to come that have to cross at least the Rs. 100 crore mark and aim for Rs. 300 crore milestone. All eyes are now on films like Dishoom, Rustom, Mohenjo Daro, Raaz Reboot, M.S. Dhoni - The Untold Biopic, Mirzya, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Shivaay, Befikre and Dangal to do. In addition to that, one just hopes that at least a couple of more films managed to surprise as well. Collectively, between these films, the industry is hopeful that at least Rs. 1300-1500 crore would come in.
That's the need of the hour. Sultan has proved that it is possible. The onus is now on these films to deliver.
