In recent years, prior to the release of any major Bollywood film, trade analysts have closely monitored ticket sales in the national chain of multiplexes, PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis (PIC), with the data being made public.
“Jawan” and “Pathaan” have emerged as the frontrunners, surpassing the 5.5 lakh ticket mark at PIC. “KGF 2” follows closely behind, with over 4 lakh tickets sold at PIC.
This year, Hrithik Roshan’s “Fighter” leads the pack, with 1.45 lakh tickets sold at PIC.
All eyes were on this week’s major release, “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. With a budget of 350 crores and helmed by Ali Abbas Zafar, known for blockbusters like “Sultan” and “Tiger Zinda Hai,” expectations were sky-high.
However, advanced bookings proved to be disappointingly low, prompting multiplex chains to withhold PIC ticket sale figures.
Trade analysts are struggling to track sales, as producers have instructed multiplexes not to disclose data. The fear is that revealing such poor numbers would prematurely brand the film as a big flop even before its release.
Producers are resorting to secrecy in an attempt to fool audiences.
Originally slated for release on April 10 (non-holiday), the film’s release has been pushed back to April 11, coinciding with the Eid holiday. The makers are expecting that the holiday would give the film some respectable collections.
