Udta Punjab was touted as one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Did it live up to the expectations at the box-office? Well, the drugs drama may not have shattered box-office records but has made a steady start for sure.
The Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor and Diljit Dosanjh starrer has garnered Rs 10.05 crore on Day One. With this, the film has become the fifth highest opener of the year after Fan, Housefull 3, Airlift and Baaghi.
One may also argue that the Abhishek Chaubey-directed film that boldly deals with the drug menace in Punjab would have seen a stronger opening, had it not leaked online two days before its release.
On the upside, the movie has unanimously received glowing reviews from critics. While Chaubey’s deft direction has been widely appreciated, the performances of the lead stars too have earned praise. What’s more, the word of mouth among the audience too is positive.
Producers Ekta Kapoor and Phantom (Anurag Kashyap, Vikas Bahl, Vikramaditya Motwane and Madhu Mantena) already won their first battle, that against the Censor Board. The CBFC wanted 89 cuts but the High Court finally passed the film with a single cut.
Now, if content truly is king in Bollywood, there’s no reason why Ekta, Anurag & Co’s labour of love won’t emerge triumphant at the box-office. Let’s wait and watch.
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