If the box office collections of Haider and Bang Bang are any indication, the last quarter of the year is off to a flying start.
The two films, which hit the theatres on October 2, have set the coffers ringing with a n overall collection of about Rs 115 crore over the four-day weekend. While Haider has earned critical acclaim, the other has had a big opening at the BO. Trade analyst, Komal Nahata says, "In the first four days, Bang Bang has collected about Rs 92 crore and Haider has raked in Rs23 crore, which is quite extraordinary. And Bang Bang has been Hrithik Roshan's best ever opening."
Nahata adds that Haider starring Shahid Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor has been appreciated by the niche audience. "It will certainly gross more than an average film in terms of collection. Of course, Monday again is a holiday for Bakri Eid and footfalls will be good."
Exhibitors, on the other hand, are keeping an eye on the trade post Monday. There are about half a dozen films releasing this Friday but trade pundits feel they wont impact the business of the two biggies. Says Rajesh Thadani, "It is going to be a crucial period for both the films from Tuesday. They won't have any competition as such with small films releasing this Friday."
Thadani terms Haider's growth at the box office as steady with the film garnering wide critical appreciation. "Publicity for the film by word of mouth has done a world of good to it," he adds.
This weekend has been quite successful for exhibitors. Vishal Anand of Fun Cinemas says, "Both films put together gave us the biggest opening as this was a four day weekend, adding to our collections in terms of business. Bang Bang was an out-and-out commercial success while Haider is winning great praise.
