Soon after theatres reopened in mid-October last year, filmmakers have been testing waters to see if audiences are now stepping out and going to watch films in cinemas. Is Love Enough - Sir and Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari initiated the chain of new releases in Bollywood in November 2020, followed by Indoo Ki Jawani and Shakeela in December and Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi marked the beginning of this year. Meanwhile, Hollywood biggies — Tenet and Wonder Woman 1984 (WW’84) — too helped up the box office collections. Having covered almost the first quarter of the new beginning since cinemas reopened, industry insiders talk about the present scenario.

Trade expert Komal Nahta feels the only “relief is that films are running and cinemas are functioning”. Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari also did a bit better business than other Hindi films, shares exhibitor-distributor Brijesh Tandon.

Trade expert Atul Mohan says, “The re-released films and new ones made about 5-10% business. Only Tenet, WW’84 made about 15-20%. After the difficult 2020, we must get things running with big films.”

With big-budget films expected to release March onward, and Shibasish Sarkar, CEO, Reliance Entertainment group, announcing that either Sooryavanshi or ’83 will release during Holi, has given many hope. “Many theatres are still shut, 50% occupancy cap is a concern. Turn-around time given the sanitisation procedure has reduced the number of shows. Now, only big films can change the game,” shares distributor-exhibitor Akshaye Rathi.

Raj Kumar Mehrotra, general manager, Delite Cinemas, shares Madam Chief Minister starring Richa Chadha releasing this month might bring business. “Till now, we had 15-20% occupancy, which went up to 30-35 % during Tenet, WW’84. Once big films come, it’ll go over 70%,” he says.

“Vaccination will improve collective sentiments and provide courage. With all precautions, theatres are ready. Now, audience should extend support,” shares Rathi.

Highlighting how reworking of ticket pricing is a determining factor to increase footfalls, Mohan adds, “Pandemic has hit the economy hard, leading to job losses. If ticket pricing is on the lower side, it might draw more people to the theatres.”

Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari: ₹2.5 crore

Indoo Ki Jawani: ₹60 lakh

Shakeela: ₹30 lakh

Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi: ₹25 lakh