Making a film is relatively easy in today’s era, thanks to advanced technology and skilled professionals. However, creating a successful film is a different ballgame altogether. The box office success of a Hindi film cannot be attributed to a single factor; it’s a delicate and complex blend of various elements that come together to create magic on the big screen.
First, let’s have a look at Bollywood’s top 25 movies with the highest- opening day collection:
1. ‘Pushpa: The Rule – Part 2′ (2024-12-05) – Rs 70.3 crore
2. ‘Jawan’ (2023-09-07) – Rs 65.5 crore
3. ‘Pathaan’ (2023-01-25) – Rs 55 crore
4. ‘Animal’ (2023-12-01) – Rs 54.75 crore
5. ‘KGF Chapter 2′ (2022-04-14) – Rs 53.95 crore
6. ‘Stree 2’ (2024-08-15) – Rs 51.8 crore
7. ‘War’ (2019-10-02) – Rs 51.6 crore
8. ‘Thugs Of Hindostan’ (2018-11-08) – Rs 50.75 crore
9. ‘Singham Again’ (2024-11-01) – Rs 43.5 crore
10. ‘Tiger 3’ (2023-11-12) – Rs 43 crore
11. ‘Happy New Year’ (2014-10-23) – Rs 42.62 crore
12. ‘Bharat’ (2019-06-05) – Rs 42.3 crore
13. ‘Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’ (2017-04-28) – Rs 41 crore
14. ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’ (2015-11-12) – Rs 40.35 crore
15. ‘Gadar 2’ (2023-08-11) – Rs 40.1 crore
16. ‘Adipurush’ (2023-06-16) – Rs 37.25 crore
17. ‘Sultan’ (2016-07-06) – Rs 36.54 crore
18. ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ (2024-11-01) – Rs 35.5 crore
19. ‘Sanju’ (2018-06-29) – Rs 34.75 crore
20. ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ (2017-12-22) – Rs 34.1 crore
21. ‘Dhoom 3’ (2013-12-20) – Rs 33.42 crore
22. ‘Chennai Express’ (2013-08-08) – Rs 33.12 crore
23. ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ (2012-08-15) – Rs 32.93 crore
24. ‘Singham Returns’ (2014-08-15) – Rs 32.1 crore
25. ‘Brahmastra Part One: Shiva’ (2022-09-09) – Rs 32 crore
Factors contributing to the box office success of a movie:
The star power effect
Star power undeniably has a magnetic pull in Indian cinema. Audiences often flock to theaters to watch their favorite stars in action. However, star power alone doesn’t guarantee success. It must be complemented by a compelling storyline, strong performances, and quality filmmaking. A megastar can draw the audience to cinemas on the opening weekend, but sustained success depends on the film’s content and word-of-mouth buzz.
Reflecting on the above list, movie trade analyst Girish Wankhede shared with us “The films that have achieved massive openings at the box office invariably feature some of the biggest superstars in the Indian film industry, such as Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Prabhas, Sunny Deol, and Akshay Kumar. The emergence of new stars, like Yash from the ‘KGF’ franchise, has also captivated audiences and contributed to remarkable opening figures. These films possess a certain glamour and a larger-than-life quality that resonates with the audience, creating an irresistible draw that ensures a robust opening weekend.”
“Several key factors contribute to the success of these films. First and foremost, the presence of a superstar is often a significant catalyst for attracting audiences. The star power of these actors generates excitement and anticipation, drawing in fans eager to see their favorite stars on the big screen,” he added.
Sequel is the key…
If you look at the list above, right at the beginning, if you see the top 10, they are either movies with big stars or sequels. So the question stands are sequels a key to box office success? Reflecting on the same, industry expert Ramesh Bala shares, “For a movie to open big, most of it, if you look at it, is star movies like Khans, Prabhas, Allu Arjun, but also mostly sequels look at them – ‘Stree 2,’ ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaan 3.’ So lots of sequels do well. The sequels build anticipation. The first part has performed well, it stays with the audience and naturally, the second part opens very well, like ‘KGF Chapter 2,’ ‘Baahubali 2.’ So it’s either the star power or the sequels that get big openings.”
Production value
Girish also added “In many cases, the backing of a prestigious production banner can also elevate a film’s profile. A well-known production house brings with it a legacy of successful films, creating a sense of trust and expectation among audiences. Additionally, brand recall is essential; films based on well-loved stories or featuring iconic personalities—such as the biopic of MS Dhoni—automatically generate interest. Even when led by modest stars like Sushant Singh Rajput, the narrative’s strength and emotional connection can lead to a significant opening, as seen with films that resonate deeply with audiences.”
“The production value of a film plays a crucial role; high-quality cinematography, impressive sets, and state-of-the-art special effects enhance the overall viewing experience, making it more appealing to potential viewers,” shared the trade analyst.
Content is King
The Indian audience has evolved. In an age where viewers have access to diverse content from across the globe, they are no longer willing to settle for mediocrity. Platforms like OTT have raised the bar, offering gripping narratives, world-class performances, and innovative storytelling. For a Hindi film to compete in this global arena, it must deliver an engaging story that resonates emotionally or provides a much-needed escape from reality.
Take, for example, ‘Pushpa.’ The South Indian blockbuster captivated audiences with its larger-than-life action, unforgettable dialogue, and authentic story. Now imagine a Hindi star like Varun Dhawan attempting a similar formula. The outcome might not strike the same chord because storytelling and cultural nuances play a critical role in making the audience connect.
Escapism and relatability
Indian cinema thrives on escapism. Whether it’s a family drama, a romantic saga, or an action-packed entertainer, audiences seek a break from their daily struggles. At the same time, relatability is key. When a film successfully blends aspirational elements with relatable moments, it creates an emotional connection with viewers. Films like ‘Dangal,’ ‘Gully Boy,’ and ‘3 Idiots’ excelled at this balance, breaking box office records in the process.
The game of marketing
“Moreover, a strong marketing campaign is vital for creating buzz and excitement before a film’s release. Effective promotional strategies, including engaging trailers, captivating posters, and robust social media outreach, can significantly influence public perception and anticipation. Films like ‘Animal’ and ‘Sanju’ benefited from meticulously crafted marketing campaigns that showcased their unique narratives and visual appeal, further fueling audience enthusiasm,” shares Girish.
Cinemagoing is an expensive outing nowadays
Going to the cinema has become an expensive outing, both in terms of time and money. With ticket prices soaring and the convenience of streaming platforms, audiences are more selective than ever. They demand value for their investment—be it through gripping narratives, high-quality visuals, or unforgettable performances.
Moreover, the rise of pan-Indian films poses a new challenge for Hindi cinema. South Indian films like Baahubali and RRR have redefined cinematic standards, combining grand visuals with impactful storytelling. For Hindi films to compete, they must either match this spectacle or carve a unique identity through emotionally resonant and innovative narratives.
Breaking records and barriers
Ultimately, Hindi films that deliver a memorable cinematic experience are the ones that stand out. Whether it’s the escapism of a masala entertainer or the emotional depth of a hard-hitting drama, films that successfully strike a chord with audiences not only break barriers but also create history at the box office.
As Saurabh Varma, film analyst and marketeer at Hitflik, aptly puts it – “Magic happens when a film tells a story successfully. It’s this magic that breaks box office records and leaves a lasting impact.”
In conclusion
In the words of Girish Wankhede, “Ultimately, for a film to achieve a spectacular opening, it must possess a combination of these elements: a powerful star cast, exceptional production quality, a reputable banner, strong brand recognition, and a comprehensive marketing strategy. Additionally, the film must deliver the quintessential masala entertainment that Indian audiences crave—an engaging storyline, emotional depth, and exhilarating action sequences. When these ingredients come together harmoniously, the result is an impressive opening that sets the stage for a film’s overall success at the box office.”
This post was originally published on here
