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Predictions were pretty much on the mark for Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns as the film opened to 30% occupancy and then showed constant escalation not just on Friday but also on the weekend. This was pretty much on the cards since the film was dependent on word of mouth as recollection value was already working in its favour. Even though comparison factor with the first part were obvious (and hence also led to a mixed response), the very fact that as a standalone product it was a good offering by Tigmanshu Dhulia which did the trick.
As a result, the film ended up netting around 12.75 crore in the opening weekend. In the process the film has almost doubled the lifetime business of Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster and is now in the process of comfortably crossing the 20 crore mark in the first week. It would be interesting to see the kind of distance that it would cover from this point on since there is good competition ahead from Jolly LLB, 3G and Mere Dad Ki Maruti, each of which is not just carrying good visibility but also threatens to take away a lot of screen space at multiplexes.
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While the eventual outcome of Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns is still a while away, the fact remains that the film will make profits. Also, its acceptance has shown once again that as a filmmaker, Tigmanshu Dhulia has managed to create a good name and standing for itself. Amongst actors, Jimmy Shergill has shown once again that when given a meaty role, he has it in him to deliver each time around. As for Irrfan Khan, he has shown his versatility by jumping seamlessly from Life of Pie to an affair like this. On the other hand Mahie Gill should find further meaty roles coming her way.
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Second, and the only other release of the week, Saare Jahan Se Mehenga, was always expected to struggle at the release stage itself and that showed when it could hardly get 2-3 shows a day at leading multiplexes. With negligible opening footfalls, below average content, poor reviews and zero interest amongst the audience, there was no chance whatsoever for Saare Jahan Se Mehenga to make its presence felt. As a result, the film sunk, and how, with no chance whatsoever for revival of any kind. Disaster.
Joginder Tuteja tweets @tutejajoginder
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