Vivek Agnihotri‘s The Bengal Files entered controversy long before its release. Many expected the film to draw crowds due to the buzz around it.
It was widely believed that all the gossip and debate would help the film open strong and stay in discussion after release.
However, the film’s reality has turned out to be quite different.
Released in theatres yesterday, The Bengal Files earned just around ₹1.75 crores on day one. The second day is not showing much growth either, according to trade experts.
If all goes well, the film may reach ₹2.5 crores on its second day. But the overall weekend collection might be limited to ₹7–8 crores.
Experts predict that its lifetime collection may wrap up under ₹18-20 crores net in India.
Unless it picks up drastically, the film is unlikely to become a hit. It also won’t match the impact of Agnihotri’s earlier film, The Kerala Files.
The Kerala Files, despite its controversial tone, shocked audiences and did well at the box office.
Fans now feel The Bengal Files, even with similar political undertones, lacks quality and emotional depth. Many believe it’s not a well-made film.
The poor performance suggests that overly propagandist content is no longer resonating with Indian audiences.
Agnihotri’s attempts to stir controversy appear to be backfiring. Viewers now expect better cinema and aren’t swayed by marketing gimmicks.
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