BIG DIVIDENDS AT BOX OFFICE

In 2018, the first half of a year — for a change — has been great for Bollywood, with Race 3 and Sanju yet to hit theatres

Over the years, Bollywood has been synonymous with many perceptions, one of which has been that the first half of a year never turns out to be profitable for the film industry. But take one look at the first six months of 2018, and you will realise that the trend has been turned on its head. Over ten Hindi films, including three blockbusters, have hit the bull’s eye at the ticket windows.

A GREAT START

For starters, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat bagged earnings of ₹300 crore in India, while Tiger Shroff-starrer Baaghi 2’s box office figures stand at ₹165 crore. Likewise, Raazi has collected over ₹120 crore till date. Other major hits have been Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (SKTKS), Raid, Veere Di Wedding, Pad Man, Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, Hichki, and October (see box).

What’s the secret to this success? The producer of Baaghi 2, Sajid Nadiadwala, believes that the key to a commercially successful film is inclusiveness. “A hit film is one that is all-inclusive and is meant for a larger base of audiences. Regardless of whatever genre we bracket our films in, one thing that will always be common is that they entertain a large section of our diverse society.”

AFTER A BREAK

Historically, it’s been believed that summer vacations and exams in the first half of a year have resulted in lower earnings for films. Conversely, since the second half of a year is packed with a number of festivals and holidays, it’s considered more profitable for movies. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says, “This year’s first half has been absolutely unbelievable. It feels as if I am living a dream.” Interestingly, two highly anticipated films — Race 3 and Sanju — are yet to show their prowess at the box office this month.

Adarsh goes on to add that he may have last witnessed the first half of a year being so profitable for movies in the 1980s. “With the advent of the 1990s, the second half of a year became increasingly important. So, 2018 has come as a breath of fresh air. Be it women-led films or action dramas, the great thing is that a variety of films have worked in this half,” he says.

CONTENT RULES

Actors, on their part, are also kicked with the great response to their films. Padmaavat star Deepika Padukone says, “I’m glad that starting with my film, the year has begun on a very good note, not just for me, but for the entire industry as well. The film has created history in different ways, and I really cannot thank Sanjay sir enough for entrusting me with (portraying) Padmavati.”

So, the big question is: what really changed in 2018? Producer Bhushan Kumar says, “We have always worked on the belief that a good, entertaining film will find its audience and perform to its potential.”