Box office numbers are his biggest astra

Over the weekend, two questions dominated the talk in movie and exhibition circles: How is Brahmastra? And how much will it amass at the box-office? The former is understandably subjective, with the Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt starrer garnering mixed reviews from critics. Fortunately, the box-office numbers tell an encouraging story. The most ambitious Hindi film of 2022 has started off on a strong note across over 5,000 screens in India, with its opening-day figures reading almost Rs 35 crore. With a two-day collection of Rs 69.5 crore, Ayan Mukerji's directorial venture has brought much-needed cheer to Bollywood that hasn't seen a hit since Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 in May. Trade analyst Akshaye Rathi deems the opening "spectacular". "This is the best opening we have seen for a Hindi film after the pandemic. Until now, Sooryavanshi had the highest opening at Rs 26 crore," he beams. It may be noted that Akshay Kumar's cop actioner had opened in theatres when many states had the 50 per cent occupancy rule due to the pandemic.

Also Read: 'Brahmastra' makes record opening, beating 'Sanju' and 'Sooryavanshi'

Among the highlights of Mukerji's superhero drama is its stellar VFX. Despite the 3D ticket prices being significantly higher than its 2D counterpart, there is no dearth of takers. Manoj Desai, executive director of G7 cinemas, says, "The 3D version is doing extremely well. It indicates that people want to watch it in the most cinematic way possible." Trade analyst Taran Adarsh applauds the team for making it a visual spectacle. "We have to give it to them for attempting [such a grand movie]. The special effects are well-executed, but later the focus shifts to the love story. That is a problem."

Trade analyst Amod Mehra says that Brahmastra's "bumper opening" has busted the myth that only south Indian movies are taking the box-office by storm. But he points out that the film's budget - reportedly a staggering Rs 410 crore - may be its undoing. "Brahmastra has delivered a bumper first weekend. The only [problem] is that the cost is huge. If we consider the total budget as Rs 450 crore, including promotions and advertising, the OTT rights, satellite rights and music [together will fetch] about Rs 150 crore, while international markets may bring in Rs 50 crore. Recovering the balance Rs 250 crore will be a tall order. For that, the film will have to do a business of Rs 500 crore nett in India. Right now, it cannot be termed a hit."

Also Read: ‘Brahmastra' movie review: Bruh!

Highest hindi film openers after the pandemic

Brahmastra: Rs 35cr

Sooryavanshi: Rs 26cr

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2: Rs 13.41cr

83: Rs 11.96cr

Play Quiz: Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt-starrer Brahmastra