Balaji Motion Pictures’ Ek Villain, released on June 27, scored a historic opening weekend at the India box office, according it instant blockbuster status.
Directed by Mohit Suri, it top-lines Riteish Deshmukh, Sidharth Malhotra and Shraddha Kapoor.
Released on 2539 screens nation-wide, the romantic thriller emerged as the biggest opener of 2014, in terms of screen average.
Ek Villain achieved a humungous net box office of Rs. 50.70 cr. (Fri Rs. 16.72 cr., Sat Rs. 16.54 cr., Sun Rs. 17.44 cr.) making it the highest for the producer, director and the lead stars.
Revenues from the overseas markets and non-theatre streams are additional.
The film’s opening has beaten that of films, featuring veteran actors and newcomers, released earlier this year.
The national distributor, Anil Thadani, stated, “The film has found universal acceptance. It is one of those rare films that worked as well in a remote single screen as it did in an up-market multiplex. It is a blockbuster and game-changer in the real sense of the words. Hats off to Balaji and Mohit Suri!”
Director Suri remarked, “I am delighted that my first film outside my home company has opened to such a path-breaking response. The stupendous figures are testimony to the power of conviction, content and passion.”
CEO – Balaji Motion Pictures, Tanuj Garg, said, “Not only is this opening the biggest for the studio but for the industry this year, in light of the screen count. We scored big despite no advantage of a bank holiday weekend. With compelling content, strong word of mouth and exemplary marketing, the film is poised to sustain and enjoy a glorious run at the box office.”
