As I write this post, I take a look at the first week-end collections of the much hyped Salman Khan starrer Dabangg. It has, by now created history as the biggest ever opening movie in bollywood, bigger than even 3 Idiots. Take a look at the trade figures, you will get an idea where this action packed movie stands today and where it is heading.
FILM OPENING WEEKEND
- DABANGG approx. 47.75 cr. to 48.5 cr.
- 3 IDIOTS 41 cr. (incl. Thursday previews)
- RAAJNEETI 34 cr.
- MY NAME IS KHAN 33.2 cr.
- HOUSE FULL 32 cr.
- GHAJINI 30 cr. (4-day weekend was 40 cr.)
These figures prove at least a couple of points. One, Salman is still a force to reckon with even today. Two, he might just have discovered yet another facet to his image, which could pull him through for a few more years in bollywood. (Incidentally, Sonakshi, his heroine in Dabangg was just two years old when Maine Pyar Kiya was realeased, but then, this is not uncommon in the industry.)
Yes, I'm talking about the image of an action hero. If success of movies like Wanted and Dabangg are anything to go by, their is certainly some credibility in this theory. With Akshay Kumar, the official action hero of bollywood experimenting in the comedy and social drama category, and other part-timers running out of steam, Salman is definitely looking to put his famous muscles to good effect finally. And this is working for him just fine, at least for now.
Well, the final trade figures for Dabangg may not come anywhere near 3 Idiots at the end of its run, but with such entertainment from the controversial Khan on their way, his fans are certainly not complaining.
One things of serious discussion is whether action as as genere is back in hindi film industry and whether much forgoteen B and C class center are still power to reckin with
ReplyDeleteI believe action was always on..... only they didn't know how to package it.Add star power,style and comedy to action, wrap it up in a smoothish script and you are on.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, B & C centers certainly have huge potential, the only thing is there the taste of the audience is different.What holds good for multiplexes and NRIs won't work for them.You need to be sensitive to their requirement to get the best out of those centres.