When Kantara released in 2022, it surprised everyone by grossing Rs 400 crores worldwide on a modest Rs 15 crore budget. Now its prequel, Kantara Chapter 1, arrives with far bigger expectations, but also with much higher risks.
In overseas markets alone, the film needs to earn around $9 million across languages to break even. Trade experts say this is a steep target, and unless the film generates extraordinary word of mouth, achieving it will be tough.
While the hype around Kantara Chapter 1 is strong, it isn’t yet at the level of films that gross Rs 800–1000 crore worldwide. Still, the film must aim for that scale to satisfy distributors and recover heavy investments. At home, it will only be considered a theatrical success if it crosses Rs 400 crore gross, though the expectations are set much higher.
In the U.S., advance bookings indicate premiere collections around $200K which indicates a very moderate interest. In the Telugu states, rights were sold at high prices, meaning the film must perform at blockbuster levels. All eyes are now on Rishab Shetty to see if he can recreate the magic and deliver another box office sensation.
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