AskIndicine 26 June 2016: Live Now

Q. Please give the total (unadjusted) box office impact of 5 major actors – Salman Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Ajay Devgan and Akshay kumar starting from 1988.

A. Shah Rukh and Salman were the top stars during the 90s. Shah Rukh and Aamir between 2000 – 2010. Salman and Aamir have the lead this decade. Ajay and Akshay weren’t in the top league of actors in the 90s, but have stuck around long enough to become bankable stars. You can check the following pages for collections of their films:

• Salman Khan Box Office
• Shah Rukh Khan Box Office
• Aamir Khan Box Office
• Ajay Devgn Box Office
• Akshay Kumar Box Office

Q. In recent time in Bollywood has any actor, actress or director had two or more release in a single day? Please tell for three of them.

A. It’s difficult to answer such questions in live QnA, but Shruthi Haasan had two releases on the same day – D-Day and Ramaiya Vastavaiya. Nikhil Advani had two back-to-back releases in Hero and Katti Batti. Can’t think of anything else at the moment. We’ll try and post an article on this if there are 4 or 5 instances. Update: A reader pointed out - Another example of an actor having two releases on same day is Amitabh Bachan. Khakee and Aetbaar released on same day in 2004

Q. Why Salman’s statement is not facing any wrath whereas Aamir & SRK had to face the wrath even though Salman said something far more worse?

A. Not sure what you’re talking about here.. but most of Salman’s comments have been his personal opinions for which he has had to face outrage. He’s ridiculed almost every day and the outrage for his ‘raped woman’ comment was much more than necessary. On the other hand, Shah Rukh and Aamir’s comments were probably directed at the people of the country. Aamir’s comments of “thinking of leaving the country” was difficult to digest for a lot of fans, because the country has given him so much. It’s all behind them now.. FAN wasn’t affected. Dangal won’t be either.

Q. Do you think Shahid Kapoor’s career graph is going the Aamir Khan way? Just like Aamir, Shahid is a terrific actor, but hasn’t really delivered big at the BO yet ( which was the case with Aamir too, for the initial 15-18 years of his career, apart from big hits like Raja Hindustani, DCH etc.). Do you think a movie like Ghajini can turn it around for Shahid? Please share your views.

A. Aamir had three major hits – Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Dil and Raja Hindustani. Even Akshay and Ajay had 10-12 years or so before they hit the big league, so yes, given the fact that Shahid Kapoor is talented, he could still turn it around. Those days were a little different though. Actors used to work on 2-3 films simultaneously and seriousness with which current generation actors take each film – probably wasn’t there back in those days.

What has worked for Aamir is his choice of films. Films like Lagaan, Dil Chahta Hai, Rang De Basanti and Taare Zameen Par were brave choices. It helped him grow his fanbase and also build the trust that the audience now have in him. Shahid is talented, but his choice of films needs to change quickly if he has to make it big in the industry. Udta Punjab – with all its critical acclaim – has been watched by far fewer people as compared to a film like Baaghi.

While Shahid has stuck on to a director like Vishal Bhardwaj (his films are restricted to audience in 10 cities at best), Aamir was smart enough to not repeat his directors – unless it’s someone like Rajkumar Hirani who gives him pan-India audience.

It isn’t a fair comparison anyway, Aamir is in a different league. Shahid has a long way to go.

Q. Do you think Adult Comedy genre in Bollywood dying because of Censorship issues. Kyaa Kool Hai Hum 3 & Mastizaade almost became a regular comedy when audience very expective adult comedy in them.

A. Don’t think so. Can’t comment on censor board issue without seeing the scenes that were cut. Kya Kool Hai Hum 3 and Mastizaade were bad films. The response to Great Grand Masti trailer has been fantastic. It’ll open well and probably do well too.

Q. Why in Bangalore, Aamir has huge fan following compare to other big cities?

A. He has fans everywhere. Mysore (includes Bangalore) and West Bengal circuits are known as the ‘class’ circuits. Films that are multiplex targeted do well here. For example, a ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ will perform much better in Mysore circuit as compared to ‘Krrish 3’.

Q. Why there is so much negativity around Mohenjo Daro? Yes, the trailer was not upto the expectations but it was not bad even better than many of 2016?

A. The trailer was generally not received very well, but negativity from a section of the media was shocking. Some even went to the extent of asking people not to watch the film. A few others said it’s historically inaccurate, without even watching the film.

It could be a case of very high expectations from Hrithik – Ashutosh and the subject that they were dealing with. It’s better to wait for the film, because Ashutosh’s films are way better than his trailers.

Q. Thoughts on Anushka’s lineup?

A. It’s going to be a big year for Anushka Sharma. Priyanka and Deepika have moved to Hollywood, so Anushka is the top choice for the big stars in the industry. She has one release during Eid (Sultan) and next film is during Diwali (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil). If both films work, she’ll be one of the top female stars in the industry.

Q. As we all know AR Rahman is a great music director.. But he does not get much offer from Bollywood.. What is the reason?

A. Rahman picks the films that he wants to do. No dearth of offers. Filmmakers should also be able to afford him and his music doesn’t always suit every genre.

Q. Once both SRK told that he wished to make a Film Franchise based on Mahabharata that will have a budget on par with Hollywood Films & even will try to rope in Hollywood Producers. Do you think there is a distant possibility in future of this? We all know SRK is a daring producer & actor and he even tried to raise the bar with Ra.One but not quite succeed, has country’s best VFX studio & even tried something like FAN & a Dwarf Film too.

A. Even Aamir Khan has said in several interviews that making a Hindi film on Mahabharatha has been his dream for several years now. It could be a perfect film for the three Khans and maybe a few other top actors to come together to make a biggie. A director like Rajamouli or Gowarikar could be roped in too. No better time, because the genre is working. However, it could take years for the film to complete and putting it all together could be a difficult task. Getting the cast right is crucial for a film based on Mahabharatha, if the actors don’t suit the iconic characters they play, the film won’t work.

Q. Why movies like Baby and Drishyam were ignored at IIFA?

A. Nothing surprising. Don’t they have a long history of ignoring good films and performances?

Q. When will we see trailer of Rustom and what shall be the impact if Mohenjo Daro and Rustom release on same day?

A. Theatrical trailer is expected this Tuesday (28th June). We’ll do an article on the clash after the trailer of Rustom is out. It’s difficult to comment without watching the trailer.

Q. Which is the most awaited movie of 2016? Pick any one. From trade, audience’ point of view.

A. It’s got to be Sultan and Dangal. Biggest release periods and the biggest of stars.

Q. During 2006, Hrithik was on top, even bigger than khans. What actually he needs to do to regain his position?

A. Most actors don’t do films to be the top stars in the industry. It’s the fans who want to see their favourite star on top. For a lead actor, it’s all about box office success (profitable for investors) and audience appreciation. As for Hrithik, he has never really been in the number game. If Mohenjo Daro works big, he’ll be in the Top 3.. if it disappoints, it’ll be a major setback for him. That’s the risk you take when you do one film in 2 years. Too much at stake. Even bigger risk if there is a clash with another major star. It’s not going to be easy for Mohenjo Daro to recover costs if it’s anything less than an excellent film.

Q. Can the SRK-Alia starrer ‘Dear Zindagi’ get a good opening due to SRK ? OR the audience knows that he will be extended guest appearance , so there will be no initial?

A. Impossible to comment before the trailer. Depends on a lot factors, but SRK’s presence will obviously give the film a massive boost. A 15 crore plus opening is also a possibility, which would be unthinkable without Shah Rukh in the film.

Quick answers from now on..

Q. What are inside details of Sultan? Censor board cleared with zero cut is it sign of good film?

A. Salman films will never have a problem with the censor board, most of them are clean family entertainers.

Q. Madaari release date?

A. July 15.

Q. How much Salman’s rape remark will affect Sultan ?

A. Zero impact. In fact, it’ll help the film because a few critics have decided not to watch it.

Q. How would you connect yourself with Indiciners in just one word?

A. Difficult to explain in one word. Love the interaction and we do read each and every comment and also the tweets.

Q. What’s the worldwide gross of Housefull 3? Is it set to cross FAN worldwide?

A. Currently, Housefull 3 is about 5 crore short of FAN. Both films could be at around the same level by the end of Housefull 3’s run. FAN was better overseas, Housefull 3 did better in India.

Q. Has Dangal shoot wrapped up? When we can expect its first teaser/trailer. How the film shaped up if you have any inside report. What is next film of Aamir after Dangal?

A. They are still shooting for the film. There have been reports that a teaser could be attached to Mohenjo Daro. We haven’t heard any positive or negative reports of the film, so can’t comment on how the film has shaped up.  There have been plenty of rumours about Aamir’s next film, but his publicity has told us he hasn’t signed any film. So no confirmed film after Dangal.

Q. Did SRK face any bad phase during his long 24 years career like that of Salman khan’s bad phase(2000-2009) and Amir khan (2002-2008)?

A. His bad phase is better than the good phase of a lot of other actors. Even though FAN flopped, it still did nearly 190 crore worldwide.

Q. What could be the worst case and best case net lifetime collections of Sultan?

A. It’s difficult to put a lower or upper limit. Anything can happen at the box office. Let’s just say worst case 130 – 140 and best case could be 350 plus.

Q. Gadar or Hum Aapke Hain Kaun ,among them which one was a bigger hit and had more footfalls?

A. Hum Aapke Hain Kaun.

Q. My apology for unintentionally bashing your team with my comments on your posts lately. Its just that I felt it that way and your negative posts fuelled it further.
My question in its simplest form: How could slight historical inaccuracies hurt the movie’s business?? Yeah, I admit the selection of scenes in the trailer could have been more varied as for most of the part was simply centred on the fight involving those two giant warriors. But still why is there a needless disturbance and that too on judging the quality of such a finely churned out movie?? And will they release a second trailer or should they?

A. We do our job as honestly as we can. Especially, the box office and trade reports. Reviews, sometimes, there is too much pressure. Both are handled by different people. Historical inaccuracy is not going to hurt Mohenjo Daro, but the film has to be entertaining and well-paced. Whether the movie is “finely churned out” or not, we’ll only know after release. The confidence in the trade has lessened after the trailer. Good music and better promos can give the film a boost.

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Q. Your choice for top five directors?

A. Rajkumar Hirani, Neeraj Pandey, Kabir Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Ashutosh Gowarikar.

Q. Is there any site to download free Bollywood-Hollywood Movie?

A. I hope you are aware that it’s illegal to download films from the internet. Watch on Youtube, lot of movies are available for a very cheap price. Check out Google Play store. If not, rent a original DVD.

Q. How was Aamir Khan Young Dangal look. Will these type of pictures bring more buzz for film?

A. Incredible. The man is a legend. Would watch his movies twice just for his dedication and hard work. It definitely has created quite a lot of buzz.

Q. What are the reasons behind SRK’s failure to deliver a 300 crore grossing movie on domestic market? Do you think Srk is lesser wise than Amir and Salman due to his some decision like-doing movies like Happy New Year, Dilwale, Fan releasing fan in non festive day ,during IPL,not booking big festive dates in advance for his upcoming releases?

A. Didn’t he book Eid? Booking big dates means nothing if your films are not performing at a level that’s high enough to get you solo festive releases. For the trade, the box office performance of the last 1-2 films is more important than an illustrious career. In other words, current standing is what’s most important.

Q. What do you think of Mirzya’s trailer?

A. Didn’t like it. 5 on 10.

Q. Any reasons behind the name of this site ? What does Indicine mean?

A. Short form of INDIan CINEma. The plan was keep an option open in the future to cover other film industries. Didn’t want to restrict it only to Bollywood.

Q. The genre of Rustom is crime and thriller…don’t u think Mohenjo daro will be the first preference of family audience?

A. Yes. If Mohenjo Daro is a good / excellent film, it’ll easily outgross Rustom.

Q. Do you think Rustom might get 50:50 or even edge ahead of Mohenjo Daro in screen count at multiplexes if the trailer knocks it out of the ball park?

A. It should be 60:40 in favour of Mohenjo Daro. More after the trailer, the look and feel of the film is important to attract larger section of the audience.

Q. Was it possible for Happy New Year to collect 45 crores on opening day keeping in mind occupancy,runtime,ticket prices?hope u gonna answer this question

A. We stick to official figures here. So until that changes, we wouldn’t want to comment. But to answer your question, generally, it depends on where the occupancy is high. Even if screens, shows, ticket prices are more.. 10 people watching in Mumbai multiplex is equal to 100 people watching at a single screen in Uttar Pradesh. So that argument that some people are posting in the comments section, makes no sense.

Q. Compare Dharmendra and Amitabh stardom, I know its not fair but we can have some idea atleast.

A. Amitabh Bachchan was way ahead of the rest. During his period of dominance, he was a one man industry. If you follow tennis, he was like Novak Djokovic today.

Q. 9 consecutive back to back 100 crore who will break ?

A. Salman Khan. Currently only he can break his own records.

Q. I agree that Mohenjo daro trailer is not that great as we were expecting…but don’t you think those who are criticising the trailer have nothing to do with history..they are from other fan base?

A. Lot has been said about the Mohenjo Daro trailer, let’s give it a break and wait for the film. Expectations now isn’t as high as it should be, which could actually work in favour of the film.

Q. If the content of Mohenjo daro strikes don’t u think historical errors won’t matter(if there are some)?

A. True. Won’t matter.

Q. Which one is more important, nett box office collection or Distributer Share??

A. From a film investor’s point of view, definitely the distributor’s share. The share is high in Week 1. The longer a film performs, the bigger the advantage for exhibitors (theatre owners).

Q. Do you think that Saif Ali Khan’s time in Bollywood is over now? Another 2-3 years and he’ll stop getting projects.

A. Saif was never a bankable solo star, never will be. His best period was when Hum Tum and Salaam Namastey released. Maybe Love Aaj Kal and Cocktail. But various other factors were in play for each of his solo successes.

Q. Is MD vs Rustom still on ? Who will be at the loss if the clash happens ? Should Rustom move or stick to Indepedence day extended weekend with a partial holiday of Raksha bandhan after couple of days of independence holiday …. If it classes with MD , will it be tough to get hit status if the content is not largely accepted .. Do answer

A. Lots of Mohenjo / Rustom questions. We’ve answered a few already. We’ll have a detailed comparison article on the site after the trailer launch of Rustom. Expect the article by the end of this month.

Q. What should be the lifetime collections of MohenjoDaro at domestic market with average, decent,good and very good word of mouth respectively?

A. Could range anywhere between 70-75 crore (worst case) to 200-250 crore (if the film is excellent).

Q. Do you think Welcome would have been the first movie to cross 100 cr in India if it hadn’t clashed with Taare Zameen Par?

A. Don’t think it lost 40-50% of its business to Taare Zameen Par. The target audience was different and due to the holidays, people could watch both films.

Q. Does Rustom have the potential to cross 150 cr on solo release, if the content is as good as Airlift?

A. No chance.

That ends our QnA session for today. Nearly 45 questions were answered today, we tried to answer as many as possible right to the end of the 15th page of the comments section. Thank you for taking time out from your Sunday to join us.