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PK Has Huge Opening At Multiplexes
Friday 19 December 2014 11.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has had a huge opening at multiplexes recording morning occupancies of around 70%. The big cities are excellent and cities like Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore may put up record first day figures. The opening is less in some places like UP and Gujarat but the film has the highest ATP (average ticket prices) and the highest capacity ever even though the screen count is not the highest ever.
This should mean that the film should compensate for the weaker areas by huge huge business in multiplexes of big cities. Also the places like UP and Gujarat are not bad but just not as huge as metros. There block bookings from corporates for shows after 3pm also which means the afternoon and evening shows in metros will show even better occupancies.
The expectations are huge not just from an opening point of view but in the long run as the team as 3 Idiots behind them and it will be the weekdays which will decide if these expectations are met. The success of the film is not really an issue as this sort of initial almost ensures that.
Whenever it came to watching a Hirani film, there hadn’t been an instance when I wasn’t bowled over by his movies on their first watch. All through MBBS, LRM and 3I I found myself laughing my heart out and emoting with the characters. PK, though a fine film on its own, does fall a little short of expectations. Not much surprises in store here, though it is an engrossing “fable.”
The problem lies in what it wants to be. There are some LOL moments, but all the chasing PK scenes become tiring and mundane after a while. Aamir does act his part well; here he is better than in some of his previous outings, but apart from him and Saurabh Shukla, there isn’t one character that either stays with you or which moves beyond the stereotype. Boman, who has always been given pretty meaty parts in all of Hirani films, is used here just as a filler.
Also, this one seems to carry a big Oh My God hangover. I’m positive I would’ve enjoyed this film a lot more if the other film hadn’t preceded it. Can’t blame Hirani though, because I believe the script idea was put in place before OMG released.
However, the blemishes apart, it is welcome change from the nonsense in the name of entertainment that has been put on platter for cinema consumers week upon week this year. Aamir and Hirani have probably pulled off another cinematic success, but I’m doubtful whether I will place it at par with the other three classics, which are a tall order to catch up to even for Hirani. After the first watch, I’m a bit skeptical of it. Maybe I’ll watch it again or let it sink in. But revisiting it might take some time.
Just back from PK. Wow, biggest disappointment of the year for me. Its not bad film but its pretty pointless film. Even OMG was more entertaining than this one. You make a spoof about godmen but then you don’t add anything substantial, then it becomes pointless. 2nd half is flat and completely deceives the viewer by building the climax about the debate and takes a U-turn by turning into sobbing love story.
Hirani’s weakest film till date, which maybe better than majority of films this year but comparatively with the expectations, I never got so disappointed with a film. Aamir is alright but songs and editing(done by Raju himself) are bad. Boman is wasted. The whole India-Pakistan angle to win more audience overseas doesn’t work at all IMO.
Had high expectations and booked 8 tickets for FDFS and none of them liked it, most of them liked it as 1 time watch. I didn’t learn anything new about religion concept, neither there was any entertainment.
Now, I believe about reports that Raju Hirani was tensed after OMG release as the story line is pretty much similar concept but dealt very superficial here. Not a single scene or moment screams classic. I don’t see any repeat value here.
Accidentally read the first line of your review and realized that I cannot be on any bollywood related site until after I watch PK or else I’ll read too many reviews and spoilers lol
BO update: Aamir Khan starrer PK opens on a high note
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, December 19, 2014 – 14:00 IST
For the past few weeks, the industry has seen a lull in box office collections coming in from new releases. In fact the audiences have been holding their breath in an anxious wait for the Christmas holiday release of Aamir Khan’s PK.
As expected, the Perfectionist Khan’s film has opened on a high note with reports from across the country suggesting a 60-70% occupancy rate across morning shows, which is extremely good considering the fact that today is a working day. Looking at the reports coupled with the long running promotions, Aamir’s one film a year concept, audience’s anxiety for the actor’s film release, the strong combo of Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan, and the massive advance bookings that started on Monday, PK will set new box office records.
Apart from this, the three week long run, in addition to the massive screen count with little to no competition, PK is expected to do brisk business at the box office. Besides with good reviews, positive feedback from the audience and good word of mouth footfalls are expected to increase from evening show onwards.
Why is Aamir the only one repeatedly cited for “one film per year”? Barring Salman, hardly any of the major stars (SRK; Hrithik) do MORE than this (Hrithik might even do fewer).
Agree Salman has been doing two movies a year on an average plus Big Boss for 4 months in a year plus does numerous stage shows. SRK is more inclined towards his business and being a project manager for a movie than being an actor , though he has taken few corrective measures to mend some of it and has content based movies coming up. If he takes acting seriously there is no beating him in talent and I feel he is the one going to give the younger lot a run for their money because of his diverse image, the day he starts doing content based stuff. I don’t know about Fan since it’s coming from yrf but Raees can reinstate his positioning if the director can rein in the actor in him.
If PK is in anyway an extension of OMG, it should serve as warning to many not to procrastinate on a project unless you are doing a historical like Mangal Pandey.
At the end each actor has his own strength and nothing can be more true than –
Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahaan nahi milta
Kahin zami to kahin aasmaa nahi milta
because he’s serious he doesn’t try to take acting seriously! It’s one thing to be a fan and quite another to consider Salman a supremely talented actor!
Btw, I was talking about SRK there…..who I feel is going to get serious with his project choices and may have a fruitful 2nd innings and that is where all these indie directors will have a face to sell their dreams on big scale.
On salman simply convincing as the character you play eludes 70% of bollywood crowd so in that respect Salman is more than apt. Indian filmmaking is more than just looking serious at the camera and acting broody and there is a bit of absurdity required and he fits the bill like the other superstars have in the past.
There is enough of the actor in him to give Garv, Love, Patthar Ke Phool, Andaz Apna, Veergati ….
Quite clearly Aamir is getting worse with his choices. Has lost his instincts and too much thinking has complicated matters. Same goes for Hirani. Too much thinking and too much pressure to create a masterpiece. IN any case it is too difficult to recreate good cinema over and over again.
Aamir revels in the character of the wide-eyed, fearless rebel who dares to challenge the societal and religious structures that encourage bigotry and distrust.
Sushant Singh Rajput has only a cameo in PK but in the handful of scenes that he is in – including one in the run-up to the climax that ratchets up emotions and vigorously pulls the heartstrings – he gives a great account of himself.
Do watch out for Ranbir Kapoor – a little icing on a cake so appetizing that it will have you clamouring for more.
PK is a winner all the way, a film that Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt would have been proud of had they been alive. Rajkumar Hirani is without a doubt their most worthy standard-bearer.
But even if you were bothered by all the film’s gaffes, there’s an interesting cameo towards the end to make sure you leave the theatre with a smile on your face. PK might not be the repeat value juggernaut like 3 Idiots, but it does have better content, execution and a more socially relevant topic. Props to Hirani and team for saving one of the most enjoyable movies of the year for the last.
The robustness of the dialogue (it has a word which made me gasp and laugh out loud, but I’m not telling which) and the sting in the situations way to exposition. From this point on, ‘PK‘ becomes a message-y let-us-expose-those-who-give-religion-a-bad-name, just like the magnificent ‘Munnabhai’ took the pants off bad medical practice, its sequel docked legal sharks, and ‘3 Idiots’ taught a lesson to misguided educators. – See more at: http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/pk-review-aamir-khan/#sthash.RYVkNPXU.dpuf
What keeps `PK’ afloat is Aamir. He holds on to the uniqueness of the lead character and helps us ignore the contrivances, right from when he appears with a tatty tape recorder as sole raiment, ears sticking out, and an expression which requires him to widen his eyes, and keep them wide open.
In PK, he tackles the widespread evils of religion-dictated farce in this country, the bizarre rituals it entails whilst acknowledging the distinction of a divine presence from idol worship.
The Paresh Rawal-starrer OMG-Oh My God, a satire I quite relished — in fact a tad more than PK — raised similar concerns through hard-hitting rationality and an element of mythological fantasy.
Part comedy, part drama, PK opts to share its genre specification with science fiction.
To get across his point, Hirani appoints Aamir Khan to play PK, a freakier, flashier version of 3 Idiots’ Rancho.
The actor, given his newfound comfort in the socially aware, is on the same wavelength as his director resulting in a performance that is flamboyant enough to make a splash.
One sees a lot more of him than is accustomed to in PK. While it’s not pin-up material, it’s refreshing to see a mainstream star in such an uninhibited space.
During the course of his quest to return home, filled with madcap discoveries regarding God, fashion, music, language (watch out for one hilarious achha scene), social etiquette and self-defence (who knew Hanuman stickers could come in so handy?), PK bumps into a pixie-hair television journalist Jaggu Sahni with daddy issues (Anushka Sharma) and they join forces to blow off the whistle on a flimflam Godman (Saurabh Shukla is a hoot).
Before arriving to the story’s simplistic and lacklustre conclusion that points out to Hirani’s chronic weakness — too much sentimentality — PK moves at a buoyant pace.
The songs wonderfully embrace the moments. “Chaar Kadam” is the pick of the lot while “Bhagwan hain kaha tu” slips comfortably into momentum and “Love is a waste of time” adds to the zing. The cinematography, especially the Rajasthan parts are eye pleasing. The editing is sharp whereas the writing is coherent. The direction of the film is unquestionably good. Hirani understands where and when the film should go which way and that is exactly why we never see any abrupt cuts in the character sketch.
Aamir Khan infuses life in the film as well as his character. He has challenged his previous performance and he has come out with spectacular performance. Uninhibited, unabashed and a raw acting. Take a bow, Khan! Anushka Sharma nicely complements and her friendly attitude only helps. Rest everyone in the film takes their part seriously and they leave a mark!
At the end, one comes out watching “PK” with smile on face and thought in mind. The film has enormous laughter-spreading moments and engaging drama that will hook. It is the best of 2014 and the trust in this combo of Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan is reaffirmed and strengthened. Bravo!
“Aamir Khan is exceptional in PK, creating an irresistibly goofy character and playing him with absolute conviction. He laughs at his goblin-ears and walks around with his eyes on high-beam throughout the film, but his transformation isn’t restricted to the physical — though I must single out and applaud the skittish way he runs, his arms straight by his side with his palms stuck out, reminiscent of Steve Carrell in Little Miss Sunshine when his character was running toward automatic doors, willing them to open fast. That, there, is the impressive thing about Khan in this film, taking a few one-shot gags and stretching them feature-length so strongly and gamely that he wins us over with sheer heart.”
PK is, after all, a Rajkumar Hirani film, and nothing that it delivers hinges on devices that have done to death. It springs surprises at every turn, not the least among of which is a very special appearance by Ranbir Kapoor.
This is an absolutely unmissable mass entertainer, if ever there has been one. It is unlikely that you will ever be more entertained and more enlightened – both at the same time – by a Bollywood film.
Known to shoot funny situations in the realistic fashion, here in Aamir Khan he has the actor who makes us believe in the outlandish nature of PK. He makes you forget the oddities like green bug eyes, big ears or nudity for that matter with a performance that is endearing and probing at the same time. He plays an important role in making us believe in some of the bizarre aspects of the story.
Anushka Sharma comes across as a waft of fresh air, as somebody who seems in control of her life but behind her tough exterior there is a soft core.
Her short crop gives her face a new dimension and her chemistry with Aamir ensures that the surface of the narrative gels with its core. Saurabh Shukla and Boman Irani are efficient as ever and Sushant Singh Rajput doesn’t disappoint in a cameo. Shantanu Moitra’s music may not stand out but doesn’t come in the way of storytelling except for the Rajasthani number that is there to justify the presence of Dutt in the film.
Shekhar Kapur @shekharkapur 3m3 minutes ago
Finally a Hindi film where people r talking about quality of film rather than box office numbers. Thank you @aamir_khan @RajkumarHirani #pk
The screenplay is linear and full of ‘talkative’ scenes. The story is perfectly paced at least in the first half. The latter part of the second half is extremely dramatic with crying characters live on air and immediate change of hearts but that’s more like giving the story a logical conclusion. Yes, it appears ‘over the top’ but not for more than five minutes, and that are the only dull moments. In PK’s language ‘lull hai’.
It’s Aamir Khan’s show all the way. It’s amusing to see him make an otherwise ‘absurd concept on paper’ plausible. He is the master of disguise and it’s good to see such a ‘projectionist’ on top of his game. PK will always remain among the most cherished characters in his kitty.
Anushka Sharma is radiant and she is growing in stature. She seems confident and holds her fort in front of Aamir. By the way, her lips didn’t look any different to me, don’t know about you. Saurabh Shukla is the spine of the drama and as expected he doesn’t disappoint.
PK is a fun film with proper dose of ‘gyaan’. It’s a film that shouldn’t be missed and it’s brave because it attempts to create a better world. Another winner from Rajkumar Hirani. It would be hard to stop it from owning the box-office as well.
And yes, don’t leave the theatre till the credit rolls. There is a surprise for you.
Anushka Sharma, playing a feisty poetry-loving girl who knows her mind far more than most Hindi film heroines are allowed to, holds her own against Aamir Khan.
Aamir revels in the character of the wide-eyed, fearless rebel who dares to challenge the societal and religious structures that encourage bigotry and distrust.
Sushant Singh Rajput has only a cameo in PK but in the handful of scenes that he is in – including one in the run-up to the climax that ratchets up emotions and vigorously pulls the heartstrings – he gives a great account of himself.
Do watch out for Ranbir Kapoor – a little icing on a cake so appetizing that it will have you clamouring for more.
PK is a winner all the way, a film that Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt would have been proud of had they been alive. Rajkumar Hirani is without a doubt their most worthy standard-bearer.
The viewers were constantly whistling at Aamir’s funny one-liners and the crispy Bhojpuri dialogues. By the end, there were more thunderous claps and whistles–speaking volumes about the content.
There is a big surprise at the end – a special appearance by Ranbir Kapoor. But in which avatar and how? Watch to find out.
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra in association with Siddharth Roy Kapur, `PK` is sure to surpass the top grossers of 2014.
For Aamir’s exceptional act and the brilliant storyline, it’s a 4.5 stars!
Utkal, instead of posting various review, I would love to read your review. You might enjoy this movie but it would be good to read your review instead of many paid reviews!
I think surrounding the hype, reviews and trust in Hirani and Aamir for quality movie this should sail past 250crrs…but more than that or will it trend like 3 Idiots is yet to be seen (I doubt that it will have repeat value like 3 Idiots though)
Yes, they are paid by their site owners, lol. But yeah.. i feel many over excitement reviews. Either way, I’m not going to bash the movie but I went in FDFS and gave my review. Its everyone’s own perspective of the movie.
There is hardly anything new in this movie, I mean literally nothing is suprising, thought provoking when dealing with this subject. If you can make on this topic and raises questions and then cops out in the end, its cheating the audience. I don’t think there is anyone out there who would really love 2nd half unless your expecations are bare minimum.
But the screenplay weakens post intermission, when the stage is set for a (televised) confrontation between PK and smarmy godman Tapasvee (Saurabh Shukla). Hirani lays it on thick in these portions, and to be fair much of this territory was covered already in the Paresh Rawal starrer Oh My God. Moreover, the entire climax is hinged on a plot contrivance that sticks out in an otherwise compelling film. A hastily pasted-on romantic track between PK and Jaggu feels entirely out-of-place.
I don’t think anyone would compare this with Kick in any which way. But given Kick and HNY are two biggest hit this year(based on any source).. PK will be either No.1 or 2.
i was laughing throughout the first half of the movie. second half has some dull moments but overall a paisa vasool movie for me. this movie put a smile on every face in the end. aamir’s acting is suparb and he just dissolves in pk character.
Fortunately these speed-bumps don’t derail Hirani’s film, because even when the script fails, his leading man doesn’t. Aamir Khan is riveting, and consistently endearing as the child-man who poses impossibly innocent questions that sting. Never reducing the character to caricature – despite his innumerable tics – Aamir delivers one of his best performances here.
PK sticks faithfully to Hirani’s well-oiled formula, and yet there is no question that it’s a courageous film. Packed with sharp dialogue and genuinely funny moments that offset the lack of subtlety, it is easily one of the year’s better films. I’m going with three-and-a-half out of five for PK; the director’s best since Lage Raho Munnabhai.
Lol, least some reviews are being posted for once. It takes a special kind of person to post all the other biggies’ reviews when they get 1/5 or 2/5 all the time. Also takes some stamina too!
Actually, copy-pasting too many reviews is pointless. Just review links are fine and unless you want something specific from that review. I would be more interested in people’s feedback who seen the movie instead of all the reviews out there.
Biggest fake promotion is by Sachin Tendulkar. Whole life he’s devotee of Sathya Sai Baba and during the premiere of PK, he mentions that PK is the best movie of his life and the best message for anyone. The message is – don’t go to any managers(godmen) and directly worship the god, what a joke! 🙂
calm down master,it looks like you have an agenda of bring the film down and anyone praises the film you are banging and shouting on to people….just calm down ,the film is just released and lets see if the film is crap.what i hear from my friends that the film is superb and amir khan is outstanding…wait & see,personally i think the film has averagly comparing to D3
Lol Vijay. Sachin is clearly double standard in this aspect.
Also, where did I say the movie is crap? Are you reading my posts well enough to reply me or wanted to reply someone else? Moreover, why do i care about your friends opinion? I have seen the film and I trust my judgement over your firends.
P.K. Film FanClub retweeted
Taran Adarsh @taran_adaarsh · 10h 10 hours ago
#PK is getting amazing response.. It’s a great film. must watch.. my ratings 5/5
PK Takes Gigantic Opening, Set To Break Records
by Box Office India (December 19, 2014)
Ever since Rajkumar Hirani announced his next with Aamir Khan, which was almost three years ago, everyone had been waiting for their film to release. Today, the film, PK, finally did and took a 90-per cent opening across India, at both single-screens and multiplexes. Produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and also featuring Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt and Sushant Singh Rajput in a cameo, PK is expected to set a new benchmark at the box office. Over to the distributors:
Rajesh Thadani, Multimedia Combines, Mumbai
As expected, PK opened with 90 per cent all over India and in Mumbai too. Movie-goers of all ages, from kids to senior citizens, visited cinemas to catch the first show of their favorite director Rajkumar Hirani’s film. Without any doubt the film is will wrap its first day with gigantic numbers. The weekend too is house full as advance bookings were fabulous.
Brijesh Tandon, HK Tandon and Company, Delhi-UP
The film took a gigantic opening of around 70 per cent in Delhi-UP. In spite of the cold weather, people came out to watch the first show. As the film is not too long, exhibitors will be able to capitalise on the maximum number of shows. Cinemas have been running house-full from the second show and this won’t change till Sunday evening.
Jaspal Dhingra, Nanaskar Enterprises, East Punjab
Right now, it’s very cold in North India but in spite of that, Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan’s fans made sure they watched the first show of their favourite director-actor jodi’s film. This year, especially last quarter, was very bad for the industry but thankfully PK will salvage the situation somewhat. The film opened to 70 per cent in the morning but has been running house-full ever since in most centers.
Vijay Kher, NR Multimedia, CP
In CP, the film opened at 60 per cent and the second show saw occupancy of around 80 per cent. The film is on the lines of OMG!, which is why we need to wait till Monday to see its actual business.
Jeetu Khandelwal, Movie Pioneers, Orissa
It seems like Aamir Khan’s PK will finally save exhibitors and distributors this year as the last few months of 2014 were not good for business. But PK seems promising and expectations are high. The morning show saw 80-per cent occupancy and cinemas have been house-full from the second show onwards.
Rakesh Singh, Maa Sona Films, Bihar
PK took a fantastic start in Bihar. The morning shows were 85-90 per cent full and most multiplexes saw 100-per cent occupancy from the second show onwards. The reports are also good and we expect superlative net collections during the weekend. The film will definitely be a blockbuster, with record-breaking day-one collections expected.
Debashish Dey, Aum Moviez, West Bengal
PK took a bombastic opening in West Bengal. The film opened with 90 per cent in multiplexes and 30 per cent in single-screens. Expect huge business from the film as audiences are loving it.
BH Basha, Bahar Enterprises, Mysore
The film took an opening of around 80 per cent and from the second shows onwards, all shows were house-full. The reports of the film are also very positive. Finally, we have a superhit film as the last month was a disaster for the industry. Distributors and exhibitors were bleeding because of the kind of business films were doing.
Jagga Jasoos Postponed Again?
by Soumita Sengupta (December 13, 2014)
It seems like Anurag Basu and Ranbir Kapoor are taking every precaution to make sure that nothing goes wrong with their next film, Jagga Jasoos. Shooting of the film started last year end and is still underway, and the film was initially to release in May 2015 but was then postponed to August 28.
But a source close to the director mentioned, “There is a lot of VFX work, which needs to be done and the shoot will finish in March. Then Anurag will start working on the music with composer Pritam. So now the makers have decided to release the film in the first week of October as the timing is good and October 2 is a long weekend.”
PS: Recently, Akshay Kumar’s Singh Is Bling was announced to be released during the first week of October but it seems the film won’t make it in time. Hence, the makers of Jagga Jasoos grabbed this release window.
Aamir Khan’s PK won’t break Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year opening day record, predicts trade!
“We asked exhibitor-distributor Akshaye Rathi if PK will break opening day record of Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year and here’s what he said, “I don’t see it becoming the highest opener. Its not a colloquial soda bottle kind of film which has a big opening and than fizzles out. It will have good first day, second day will be even better and third day better than that. In fact, it will have a great first week and will go on to have a super fourth week. PK is lambi race ka ghoda…it will go the 3 Idiots way. Even their promotional campaign…they are not going all out. They are backing on the merit of their film’s content and that also speaks volumes about their confidence.”
While talking to a portal, producer-distributor R Pachisia said, “The advance booking is going very well, and I think, the opening day will be around Rs 27- 28 crore and the weekend collections will be around Rs 80-85 crore.” So even if PK doesn’t become the highest opener of 2014, it will surely get cash registers jingling.”
Aamir Khan and Ranveer Singh had a live chat that was later sent to the ‘PK’ Facebook page. The two were seen talking to each other and having a whole lot of fun.
There was lots of discussion about the upcoming film along with some future plans of Aamir Khan after ‘PK’. Mr Perfectionist also revealed that he wants to direct Ranveer Singh in his next directorial venture.
According to media reports amongst answering questions from the fans who were posting on the page, Aamir Khan said that he would love to work with Ranveer Singh. Even more so, he would like to direct Ranveer soon. However, the next movie that Aamir is going to direct will be a children’s film, in fact he has kept a script aside for the film too.
Will be watching it Sun, perhaps earlier if I’m lucky. I am rather glad Hirani has chosen this subject, specially in these times. OMG was perfectly fine as a film but I’m expecting Hirani to be more substantial on this score. Haven’t read through most of the reviews but have a general sense of what the overall critical response here is. I suspect that even for those folks who might not care as much about it initially it’s the sort of thing that stays with you. Can’t say more than this having not seen the film. I am pleased that Hirani seems to have less comedy here, at least in the second half. I’m obviously not looking for comforting preachiness here and something more edgy than this. But having less comedy is I think a good start already (I’d argued along these lines just some days ago). Because Hirani I think has done everything he could on that terrain. My sense here has always been that he should get beyond what he’s already done very well within a certain format. But yeah hugely iconic films like those build up certain kinds of expectations and sometimes folks react adversely less on account of the film they’ve seen and more because they’ve expected something else. Again I think this is the sort of work which will probably make even this cross-section of the audience ‘re-think’ the initial impressions. But either way I’d expect huge numbers of course but equally a good trendier. Now 3I cannot be the standard for a good trender. that doesn’t happen every day. I wouldn’t be surprised either way but I think there will be strong trending on this one in any case.
Now as for the rest let’s not get carried away here. OMG was perfectly enjoyable but it wasn’t some great classic that PK cannot live up to! Gimme a break! And on the box office people are just clutching at straws here. Repeat value? Really? When even the big grossers do 70% of their gross in week 1, some worse than this, only a handful even slightly better than this. Where’s that repeat value on any of these films?! And it wouldn’t take that kind of repeat factor even to cross D3. Of course you’d need it to match the 3I kind of trending. But a film with just Ghajini-like trending would beat 3I handily. Even with less than that it would.
In any case I’m not debating the actual film here because I haven’t seen it yet. Making a few educated guesses. And otherwise arguing against some points being made that I find fairly insincere (not in all cases). I’ll again say what I always do, anyone has the right to dislike the film, that’s never what I debate, but if one is going to wait for that big Aamir collapse (which has been a long wait for some I know) I think one is going to be disappointed here. Of course I fully expect that BOI line to be repeated here where even with the biggest numbers one might say ‘it did well but more was expected from the 3I team’. Yes certain films come with the strongest expectations but that doesn’t mean you get Sholay or Titanic every time. And those who are perfectly happy with their favorite stars doing 70% of the gross in week 1 don’t even have a right to ‘expect’ anything!
“Now as for the rest let’s not get carried away here. OMG was perfectly enjoyable but it wasn’t some great classic that PK cannot live up to! Gimme a break!”
This is nothing but snobbery. First- who are you to decide that OMG is not a classic. Second- I have seen this with the elite blog audience and the Rajiv Masandeque pseudo critics that for all their efforts in pumping small movies or promoting the different cinema- that they will not give a movie like OMG Oh My god – its due credit. Just because OMG did have an AR Rahman soundtrack or a Dev D style Cinematography or Lyrics by Gulzar or some festival release- some how it automatically became less significant. Just because it tries to tell the story in a simplistic manner and has a small budget it somehow doesn’t qualify to be part of the elite discussion panelist…(On that note, utter stupid movies like Raavan were discussed for days)
OMG Oh My God- is the boldest movie in at least a decade, that handled a highly controversial topic in a country like India- in the most organic way and most importantly was successful in doing so.
“OMG Oh My God- is the boldest movie in at least a decade”
luckily I’ve seen more films than you have! Or so it would seem!
On the rest no one is stopping you from discussing OMG or any other film. But you’re saying some pretty strange stuff otherwise. Revisit what you’ve written. It’s like saying ‘hey no one appreciated the film because it wasn’t made by a an important director, wasn’t shot by an important cinematographer, didn’t have BGM by a top composer etc..’! This is rather bizarre logic, specially when you’re not saying that ‘look here are the merits of the film, it has great aesthetics or whatever but it’s not being appreciated’! As far as I can tell everyone has more or less praised OMG since the film’s release (so that’s a straw man argument to begin with), the media was positive on it too. It’s definitely been a film with a shelf life. No one’s arguing against it. But if you’re going to pretend that it’s some sort of phenomenal film well you have quite a case to make! I’m only going to say what I said at the very beginning after watching it. It’s a perfectly entertaining, harmless, Disney-like film. And one has more or less said everything about it. Bollywood would be dramatically better if most films just came up to OMG’s level. However this doesn’t mean that it’s some film for the ages or something! Just within Aamir’s career over the past 15 years I could mention a number of films that are more important than it. Again I have nothing against OMG. Certainly think Abhishek would be lucky to get a film at exactly this level (narratively) from the director in All is well (let alone anything more) because he’d be assured of a significant success. But entertaining films, even those that are interesting in some sense, are very different from important films. As long as you argue the former there’s no issue. If you’re doing the latter well I’m afraid you haven’t even begun to make the case. And once more I consider OMG one of the better films of the last few years (not that this is ever saying too much when it’s about Bollywood).
I don’t know how many movies have you seen, neither do you know how many I have seen, and I do not want to indulge in some dick measuring contest (as George Carlin would put it).
Btw that statement was meant for Hindi movies..and yes it is the boldest hindi movie in the last decade or so.
Just off the top of my head… Khakee, Dev, Yuva, Raavan, Talaash, Mangal Pandey, Aankhen, DMD. Just restricting myself to some very mainstream films. Even in the classic comedy kind of vein I’d easily take the first Munnabhai over it. And if I were talking about overall better films there’d be a whole lot more. Most of Aamir’s filmography over the past 15 years could be included. The thing is that a film can treat a certain subject but that on its own does not make it the boldest. Hirani, who makes much greater films than OMG, also does a lot of satire and so on. But it’s not the kind of things that one can truly call bold. I still give him more for the first Munnabhai because I liked the focus on the ‘clinic’ here (for reasons I cannot get into at the moment). In DMD or Talaash the critique of the New Indian dispensation is a very dark and potent one. Khakee and Dev speak for themselves. Notice how I include those two Ratnams but not Guru. Had it belonged to this period I would have added Dil Se too. OMG was engaging, a couple of times I even thought about revisiting it but didn’t get the chance. However this isn’t a film that bothers anyone. A bold film ought to bother someone. I’m not even getting into the aesthetics question on which ground too those films I’ve listed are in most cases vastly superior. And again OMG doesn’t have to be a bold film. There’s nothing wrong with it. I would list it among the better films of the past decade. But that’s not the debate here.
First- I have seen all the movies that you listed here, so, unfortunately for you, that argument won’t hold
and Second- I think my definition of Boldness differs from yours by leaps and bounds. You have named some very good movies but barring a Raavan and Dev I will not consider any of them Bold in any which way(and even those two were no way close to OMG)
When I said OMG is the boldest film in the last decade- I meant its a film that showed the hypocrisy of 1 Billion to their faces. Without mincing any words it told the people that what you are doing is wrong. the Protagonist Kanji bhai calls ganesha an elephant and refers to some durga as Female don or something like that. If you observed the details he even treats their murals and portraits like common insignificant objects..Serves wine in a Mandir Kalash and in the climax- (probably the best climax in a long time) saves himself from becoming the prisoner of his own device.
Its very easy to call this a disney movie(which it in no way is)- but the snobbery is.. if the same stuff was under some Mani Ratnam banner- we would heard the intellectuals moans.
and DMD ..really? If you’d have said Lagaan- I would have agreed..But DMD.. that’s just plain famboysim
And by my definition of Boldness…Here’s what I think were really bold movies in the last decade or so
Lagaan
Raavan (although the hindi version was amplified boredom in its treatment)
Nishabd
Black Friday
Matrubhoomi (the only movie which can be compared to OMG in terms of the difficult subject it handled.)
OMG Oh My God!
Nishabd could certainly make the list. But then as I said I wasn’t making a comprehensive list. As I said earlier I could make a list of 20 if I went through everything! Lagaan is one of the finest films of the last decade but not a bold film. Which is what the debate was about. On DMD here’s my fanboy piece:
Also when considering ‘boldness’ you also have to make allowances for whether the film is supposed to be mainstream or not. There is a lot that can be said for a limited audience that cannot be said in the same way in a major release. At least not without greater risk.
By the way on the ‘snobbery’ charge let’s be serious.
Yes, I am definitely a fan of OMG. It is a great film. But being a fan of a film is better than being a fan of an actor. That ways, I am not obligated to like their every film, howsoever insignificant they may be.
I’m looking forward to it still! Certainly caN’t be written off on account of similarities to OMG or that it has little repeat value.
The reviews are good. Rajeev masand was posted as a supposedly ‘bad’ one and he gave it 3.5stars and more than 3 Idiots! Hirani will forever bare the burden of his previous films and that is fine too. We will expect more but I’m glad Tony said that it’s better than the other stuff dished up this year. A better film will get trashed in account of not being as good as 3Idiots…well those are high standards! I’d rather be living by those standards than the ones annointed on Sajid and Farah !
Just back from PK – too much overwhelmed to write much and certainly would not mention spoilers here but those trying to compare this with OMG needs to take a chill-pill – every love story can’t be compared to Romeo-Juliet and Heer-Ranjha – isn’t it? After the initial euphoria dies down – people may understand what a powerful film RH has made and I am genuienly happy that after working in a trash like D3 – aamir did this – this is his best performance till date. The biggest star of the movie is the screenplay. There are myriad of little moments in the movie which pop-up unexpectedly. I wish movie were longer…..guys! don’t miss this for anything in the world. It made me laugh and twice in the film I was dumbfounded when I realized that tears were actually flowing out of my eyes………..what a film!
Aamir Khan is exceptional in PK, creating an irresistibly goofy character and playing him with absolute conviction.
He laughs at his goblin-ears and walks around with his eyes on high-beam throughout the film, but his transformation isn’t restricted to the physical — though I must single out and applaud the skittish way he runs, his arms straight by his side with his palms stuck out, reminiscent of Steve Carrell in Little Miss Sunshine when his character was running toward automatic doors, willing them to open fast.
That, there, is the impressive thing about Khan in this film, taking a few one-shot gags and stretching them feature-length so strongly and gamely that he wins us over with sheer heart.
What keeps `PK’ afloat is Aamir. He holds on to the uniqueness of the lead character and helps us ignore the contrivances, right from when he appears with a tatty tape recorder as sole raiment, ears sticking out, and an expression which requires him to widen his eyes, and keep them wide open.
First day looks to be around 27 crores. The movie might pick up today. The opening was underpar in Mumbai, started at 30% which was mildly disappointing. It has got a big boost by the high ticket prices and at some places is being charged double of normal movies. Interesting to see how it goes..
Same 1st day number as Kick. But that movie was watched by a lot more people on day 1 with less screens and much cheaper ticket prices. PK has Xmas midweek as Kick had Eid so it’ll be interesting to see how PK does with respect to Kick’s trending.
I think the movie will do 200 crores for sure. The movie may not have universal appeal but there is enough for the multiplex audience even if you take into account that OMG has robbed it off its novelty. The holiday season will help too. But I am not too certain about 300 crores as that was pretty much the expectation from this movie considering its a Hirani movie
It’s hirani’s and Joshi’s own teenage confusion & grapple with the contradictions in society with regards to religion that has given birth to the movie PK. These arguments on religion, blind faith and religious practices have been put across millions of times through different platforms (tv shows, movies, newspapers, books, debates).We hear these arguments. Agree or disagree with them and then move on with our lives.
The movie is highly entertaining especially in the first hour and later becomes repetative. It is a job well done on all the technical aspects and it is entertaining but kind of a pointless movie considering the claims and what director/writer wants to achieve through this movie. It is no high concept and kind of an extension of satyemev jayate which beyond a point became an exercise in futility.
If you consider the movie just for entertainment then its a good one. Beyond that trying to find a larger meaning to it is pointless. This is no life changing film especially for people who are already sorted out in their minds regarding illogical practices with respect to religion. And for others it won’t seep in just like it hasn’t seeped in as far as other efforts regarding these paradoxes are concerned.
“This is no life changing film especially for people who are already sorted out in their minds regarding illogical practices with respect to religion. ”
Well said. After all that tall claims, this is pretty pointless.
This was more subtle compared to three idiots but three idiots had a more relevant theme. Music did not fit in the movie. There were no situations and it was kind of forced. The perception that music will catch on after the movie is released is wrong. It is understandable why it took them so long to script it. The point can be made in 20 minutes and they stretched it to 2 and a half hours. Sanjay dutt role had no place in the movie and anushka’s tv gig was uninteresting. The climax was forced to drive a point home. Consider it a retarded version of laggay raho munna bhai but with a good dose of humor.
Baby delivery scene in 3 idiots was just there in the movie to prove a point and culminate proceedings. Here in this movie a lot more was akin to 3 idiots baby delivery scene. Anushka’s love angle, TV gig, Sanju’s character. It was Aamir, his one liners and funny situations. Rest of the movie was like an extended ‘baby delivery scene of 3 idiots’
If pk was first raju hirani movie and there was no munna bhai or 3 idiots it might have been considered path breaking and classic. This shows you HIrani has extracted all he could from his formula of film-making. His next ventures would have a more diluted impact if he chooses the same method. The method of using humor as a vehicle to drive a social message home.
“Welcome to Sajjanpur” is a satire that has natural flair and continuity that is highly enjoyable experience. It has everything working for it. If you see that movie you will realise what is lacking in HIrani’s style of film-making. Film-making is essentially about telling a story not inventing a story to fit in an idea or message.
Wow, first time I’m seeing someone mentioning ‘Welcome to Sajjanpur’ .. I really love that movie. Benegal did great job with it, actually UTV producing it helped it to make in start to finish and not struggle making a movie. Even his next, Well done Abba was very good. I hope he makes some more movies before his time.
Both WELCOME TO SAJJANPUR and WELL DONE ABBA saw Benegal regain his peak I must say. They are criminally under-rated gems. Irani was heart-breakingly outstanding in WELL DONE ABBA..
The writing was brilliant in both the movies. Hirani with no literary background going on to become the greatest film-maker alive shows you the foundations have been crumbling for a while now. With the reading habit dying out and people turning to films for entertainment and inspiration, the definition of a learned one has become cheap. What should have been considered as mediocre entertainment is valued as a gem and is the best we have. Other filmstars and directors have no pretensions about dishing out gems and inspirational for public consumption. There were rather clear about there role as entertainers. Hirani-Aamir combo has taken a wrong turn when they started considering themselves far above mere entertainment. Partially the blame lies with the viewers as well for getting impressed with mediocrity and turning to films for inspiration due to lack of intellectual growth and thinking for multiple reasons. It is silly but it is real and Aamir and HIrani have fallen into the trap of seeking validation for the so-called meaningful and high concept stuff they dish out. Vidhu Vinod chopra’s arrogance is no secret and he is so on the moon for being “Andhon mein Kana Raja”.
With Benegal he never considered both the movies to be literary masterpieces. They were brilliant in the scope of a screenplay. And he never shouted from the rooftops for validation of their classic attribution. They have a simple entertaining story about our social realities and that is what Benegal was aiming for. What Aamir and Hirani are aiming for and given credit for is far beyond entertainment which is not sane or fair. The competition with mediocrity have given rise to these illusion of greatness. While a Shyam Benegal is more effortless in giving a really good product without considering it to be ultimate or seeking validation for its greatness.
I can understand why the film took such a long time. It must have been very difficult to write this movie and pretty sure many drafts must have been written and scrapped and rewritten to put the concept on paper and make it convincing.
The movie has been directed masterfully and Hirani is a real good director and hope he does a lot of movies. I was relieved to see aamir nail the character and act so damn well. No doubt his best acted movie yet.
But somewhere the writing has let the movie down and concept could not be translated seamlessly and has a lot of hiccups for ‘me’ and a lot of sequences seemed hurriedly wrapped. I have highlighted ‘me’ due to my own expectations otherwise a damn good movie/effort. Definitely OMG has played spoilsport to this big venture and the uniqueness was lost…..
MS Dhoni– somewhat agree but I loved the movie overall, specially Aamir, he simply nailed it.
The movie will not have the same long legs like 3 idiotsbut I do hope that it does
PK First Day Early Estimate
Friday 19 December 2014 23.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK is set for a 26-27 crore nett first day as per early estimates as the film has put up huge numbers at metro multiplexes especially Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore but the performance in mass areas is fair and could have been better.
The collections in UP, CP Berar, CI, Rajasthan, Bihar and Gujarat are good to average. In fact UP is pretty poor with even big centres like Lucknow and Kanpur putting up low numbers. The best performance is looking to come in Mumbai and Mysore. Its still a big number and will be the second highest non holiday opening ever but the general expectations in the industry were for a bigger opening day as Dhoom 3 managed 32 crore nett plus last year.
The high ticket rates have helped the city multiplexes to excellent numbers though occupancies were not huge. It will be imperative for the film to pick in mass pockets if it is to become that big grosser. It should still do pretty well even if they don’t pick up but wont be that mega grosser which was expected from the Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani combination.
Girish Johar
@girishjohar #Earlytrends suggest a low number from single screens / mass regions, but mpxs are super strong across cities through out #PK
Could not see PK yet but thanx for the detailed analyses folks. Some good unbiased stuff by gox, paapaas, master, miss dhoni etc
I’ve been looking forward to PK & had infact given it a ‘blank checque’ to go n strike and ‘create history’
But there’s a big DIFFERENCE between me and some other aamir worshippers since I’m nobody’s blind fan!
Few things are disappointing at the outset
26 cr net first day ?? Forget dhoom3, leave alone HNY ?
PK has barely matched Bang Bang (and bang bang had a full blown competitor called Haidar and much fewer cinema screens and lesser ticket price than PK & a much inferior director!)
“In fact UP is pretty poor with even big centres like Lucknow and Kanpur putting up low numbers.The high ticket rates have helped the city multiplexes to excellent numbers though occupancies were not huge. ”
Inspite of ticket prices and huge number of screens
This CONFIRMS Aamirs true stardom which is lower than srk, Salman, hrithik —it’s a fact!
And WTF am I hearing about PK copying OMG as folks like gox, paapaas, miss dhoni have picked up
After all this hoopla, this is DISAPPOINTING !!
I still give the benefit of doubt to PK and will be checking it soon.
I hope the film trends well and picks up due to the merits of the film and am sure it shoudl be atleast decent
But the first day numbers have stripped Aamirs true box office stardom and no spin can hide it
Hope the movie does well and picks up since I had high hopes of it and loved the ambition and concept from the promos
Ps: btw how is the ‘job’ of anu (I’m not talking of the’lip job’)
As our alien hero might say, hum frustrate-iya gaye hai ee sab se, because this film has so much else to recommend it. In the present atmosphere in India, it’s nothing short of bravery to openly discuss the failings of religion, and PK manages to do this in a highly entertaining fashion. This would not have been possible without the excellent cast headlined by Aamir who does not for a second allow PK’s distinctive body language and hilarious Bhojpuri accent to dwarf his character’s sincerity and guileless charm. That wide-eyed, big-eared look that seemed so odd in the promos is a perfect fit within this screenplay. And it’s heartening to see a superstar gutsy enough to allow the camera to let him come off looking physically less attractive than a co-star, yet Aamir does that throughout, but especially in that scene in which the awkwardly proportioned PK dances with Jaggu of the model-like figure and endless legs. Bravo
The opening day number DOES directly show the lead stars drawing box office power –
Let’s not find excuses of non holiday etc
U can’t get bigger than this combo hirani-vvc after munnabhai /3I and three years in the making and all
With increased and doubled ticket prices and much higher screens
26 cr is what u come up with ??? –there r no excuses here
Still
Without seeing the film
I have no doubts that the film will be v good and aamir will have done a great job –have never been wrong in that prediction
So folks
U r urged to go and watch PK on the big screen
SUPPORT good cinema
And save this brilliant combo
Ps: sincerely hope the film picks up big time over the weekend
To reach respectable numbers
if not the minimum target (of 400 cr net domestic!)
Ps2: May get to see this myself at some point to see firsthand what aamir/hirani have done with it …
“Khan is tremendous as PK. He’s earnest and not at all goofy, making the ridiculous situations PK finds himself in that much funnier. It’s especially fun to watch PK adapt to his environment. He learns which mistakes will provoke a slap, and he’s always a step ahead of the angry mob chasing him. A scene in which PK figures out how money works is side-splitting.
The story slows down in the second half as laughs give way to serious questions of exactly what the faithful get for their devotion. However, the ultimate payoff to PK’s and Jaggu’s story is beautifully done.
The universality of PK‘s subject mater, the accessible way it’s presented, the nicely incorporated song-and-dance numbers, and the fact that this is just a damned funny movie make PK a great starter Bollywood film.”
25-30 crores should be a given – from the (alleged) raised ticket prices and 5400+ screens. It only needs an average of 50% capacity to come up with the number.
Five years is a long time now-a-days to make a film – and coming from the 3I team – it better be more than just alright.
The ‘bar’ for ‘greatness’ in Hndi films is pretty low – and this is for the makers, the audience and the critics.
@ In the present atmosphere in India, it’s nothing short of bravery to openly discuss the failings of religion.
What BS. I don’t think you need bravery to show hindu godmen in bad light. Every night in news channals (Esp-english) there are more then 2-3 pannalist who keeps abusing anything related to Hindu Religion be it custom or anything. Some of Hindu self styled godmen are also helping them by thier foolishness. So i don’t think in present scenario you need any bravery to show hinduism in bad light.
“…, the movie has become another examplar of the mindless Bollywood balderdash that halfwit producers like Vidhu Vinod Chopra revel in dishing out every Friday to a nation of billion plus lobotomized Hanumans…”
Must definitely be a Hinduphobe who wrote this balderdash!
I think we should not jump too early into any conclusion. pk has every chance to go 30 cr or 30+ in SAT-in today SUN. If there is one actor whom people trust like anything it is aamir and one director who commands immense respect it it rk hirani.
Aamir Khan owns PK. He is totally uninhibited, believable and adorable. It will be one of his most memorable characters to date after Bhuvan in Lagaan. Anushka is effervescent as Jaggu, their screen chemistry works. Pixie like and stubborn, she is convincing in her portrayal of the character.
Watched PK, it’s a thoroughly watchable comedy but with a huge dose of problematic liberalism that presents all religions/religious problems with false equivalence. Jihadist activities and Hindus believing in babas/talismans/amulets etc. are painted with the same brush, as if the consequences are the same.
Aamir is great in it, perhaps one of his best performances, but the movie doesn’t come close to any of Hirani’s other films. And whatever PK tries to say on the business of religion, Oh My God already said it more trenchantly. Paresh Rawal’s abrasive manner of speaking about all-things God alone was bolder than the entire PK.
BTW read Sachin’s comments about the movie being Aamir’s best, and then Master pointing out that he himself is the biggest bhakta of that fake sai baba. Couldn’t agree more on the hypocrisy.
Paresh Rawal can be abrasive but the Khans cant be abrasive. They will be lynched alive if they dare to do so.
As for Sachin Tendulkar, liking a movie and following its message are 2 different things. I may like Amjad Khan in Sholay but I wont like to have him(the character) in the vicinity.
No, they won’t be lynched alive. I think your reaction is over the top.
Also don’t understand the Amjad comparison. Obviously one is not going to like to have a brutal villain in their vicinity, even if you liked the acting.
Sachin said it’s his best movie, and it’s got a great message for the country. It’s not rocket science to assume that he should follow it a bit if he think it’s got a great message.
Appealing to God, a Disoriented Space Alien Hopes There’s Help Out There
‘PK’ Explores Religion Through an Extraterrestrial’s Eyes
By RACHEL SALTZDEC. 19, 2014
Photo
Aamir Khan with Anushka Sharma. Mr. Khan plays an alien who touches down in an Indian desert in “PK,” a comedy directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Credit UTV Motion Pictures
No religions were harmed in the making of this film. That’s the gist of a title card that runs before the credits in the Hindi movie “PK,” directed by Rajkumar Hirani, which states that the film doesn’t intend to hurt the feelings of any community, sect or religion.
And this sweet, ambling comedy about an innocent abroad — an alien who touches down in the Rajasthan desert — doesn’t offend, even as it pokes gentle fun at religious differences and hypocrisy.
When PK (Aamir Khan) lands in Rajasthan, naked and gym-buff, his first encounter with an earthling is a rude one. A man steals his flashing green pendant (it matches his flashing green eyes), a remote control that allows him to call his ship for pickup.
After some twists and turns — including a quick, PK-less detour to Belgium for a Pakistani Romeo and Indian Juliet love story — our hero acquires language (Hindi) and finds himself in Delhi in search of his pendant. God alone, he’s told, can help him.
Guileless, he appeals to God in all his houses: temples, mosques, churches. Sneaking into a maternity ward, he examines an infant from top to bare bottom, looking for a label: is he Christian, Muslim, Hindu?
Mr. Hirani’s other films include “Lage Raho Munna Bhai” (2006), a comedy about a gangster who becomes a Gandhi-inspired good guy. That movie and its slogan, “Gandhigiri,” were so successful that they ushered in a small real-life wave of Gandhian protests.
It’s hard to imagine that “PK,” with its slogan “wrong number” (when God’s interlocutors get their wires crossed), will have a similar impact. Mr. Hirani remains an excellent storyteller, weaving his disparate story strands into a convincing, satisfying whole — a rare Bollywood feat.
But “PK” lacks the redemptive arc of “Lage Raho” — at least its hero does. PK, played with earnest sexlessness by Mr. Khan, who possesses one of Hindi cinema’s most ogled bodies, is another man-boy innocent meant to remind us of our own corruption. He does, but so benignly, that it’s hard to feel the sting.
I feel reassured that it is going to be a very watchable film. Also get the sense that it might throw up big numbers but is not in 3I league. Which is okay!
RH -Aamir- VVC team is certainly getting hampered by commercial pressures/ expectations. Do agree with BR that Hirani might be getting formulaic and OMG similarities do take away from the novelty factor.
OMG was helped in no small measure by Rawal’s stupendous talent . He is one of the most ‘effective’ actors in history of Bollywood. Not much subtlety but boy , is he effective! I love watching him in movies.
Rawal’s single best performance since Naam and Kabzaa (and Hathyar and Arjun) days was his heartbreakingly beautiful turn as the Maharashtrian policeman in “Mumbai Meri Jaan” (his retirement speech itself made the film worth for me)- In a film populated by the actors of the calibre of Irrfan, Maddy and Kaykay, it takes something special to come across as the most memorable character of the film.
“I feel reassured that it is going to be a very watchable film. Also get the sense that it might throw up big numbers but is not in 3I league. Which is okay!”
Why is it okay?? Average film with full on flaws from Hirani-Aamir is OKAY??
I see that a lot. Even though many of them are disappointed here, they end saying, I hope it does more great business. Is it charity?
Also, I see that Hirani inserts lot of latest Internet/whatsapp jokes in the movies. In 3 Idiots, we had lots of them but it was still fine as it had enough of original content. Here, almost majority of the jokes are the ones which many of them already read or heard, which is not really funny. If you have never heard that joke, maybe you’ll smile a little more but or else its going to be the repetition.
Baradwaj:”The bigger problem is that the film practically reeks of formula. Hirani has become some sort of Madhur Bhandarkar, telling, essentially, the same story and simply focusing on a different facet of society. If the enemy-establishment was the medical profession in Munnabhai MBBS and educational institutions in 3 Idiots, it’s now the religious right. If the catchphrases earlier were “jadoo ki jhappi” and “all is well,” it’s now “wrong number.”
Totally agree. This is clear formula and constructed film. Its a film about a concept and then trying to force a story around it and it is not as seamless as the Munnabhai films were. 3 Idiots was master work but it had a full on template as its based on a book and Hirani took that template to another level. This time the cracks are clearly visible in the story and presentation.
PK Has Very Good First Day
Saturday 20 September 11.30 2014 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK grossed 26 crore nett on its first day with some places doing excellent business while other places were good to average. The film was let down by the mass circuits with the performance in UP and Gujarat being on the weaker side. The best collections came in Mumbai city/Thane, Pune and South India. The Mumbai circuit overall was let down by Gujrat which grossed a low 2.50 crore nett. Mumbai circuit overall will come in a little over 8 crore nett despite big figures in Mumbai and Pune.
South India was fantastic with both Nizam/Andhra and Mysore being around the 2 crore nett mark. North India and West Bengal were good but UP, Rajasthan, CP Berar, Ci and Bihar were like Gujarat and performed below the mark.
The first day number is a very good one even though some places were below the mark and the opening is big enough to ensure a major success. But it will have show good growth across UP, Central India and Gujarat if it is to become that real big grosser and due to some places not giving optimum collections there is potential for growth.
I disagree with Bhardwaj wrt to Hirani and he continues to be a master story teller and I cannot fault his direction at all. He has shot the movie so well and the first 15-20 mins I was hooked and thought I am in for a very nice ride. I wished that movie stayed in Europe for a longer time because when it shifts to India all sorts of contradictions in mind start to take place. The Bhojpuri dialect was unconvincing and subject matter a bit stale and Master has rightly pointed we are living in the age of internet / whatsapp and it is very common to go through them on a daily basis.
This movie would be wonderful if came at least 3 years earlier. There is so much happened in the last few years and the subject matter is a bit stale due to a very active media / news channels and then OMG just a year back due to blunt postures said so much more and direct. I doubt anyone will dislike the movie but it’s the humungous expectations from this collaboration that is kind of underwhelming.
Someone asked about Anushka – Though she has acted well and subject matter does not require her sexy looks at any point of time in the movie, but she has really messed up her face and felt sorry for her for going through whatever procedures she went thru.
Unfortunately the only movie where Aamir’s acting stands out will go on to be an avg one in viewers mind. Will repeat….
Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahaan nahi milta
Kahin zami to kahin aasmaa nahi milta
Just saw PK. In isolation this is a fine film from Hirani. And a fine act by Aamir. The expectations are high and something Hirani did well is editing and the fluidity of his films. I consider this to be the weakest of his on that score.
However, I’d say this is his most complex and ambitious film too. And he has woven a story masterfully. Some of the critisism seems to be why the love story. For me this is a smartly infused part of the film that was necessary for the climax. Dutts role too was not pointless. The situations are created well. The humour is less witty and repetitive.
LRM was a tough story too and Hirani struck the right balance between humour, sentiment and emotion in that film. Here I don’t think he misses its just that expectation is not up there.
To sum up this in my opinion is Hirani’s most complex but least polished film…but the best ‘big’ film since 3 idiots.
Still a must watch and indeed I shall be watching it again tomorrow !
Says its all. All the big film makers flop films are still miles ahead of average film makers hit films. Thats how it is and will always will be. Big films and big film makers have different expectations than regular films.
Take anyone.. for example Mani Rathnam’s Raavan and Yuva are far better films than many average film makers ‘Hit’ films. Is it unfair? No, I don’t think so. Mani Ratnam has to deliver on his expectation and similarly Hirani has to deliver on his. Once you feel disappointed from this film, you can’s find solace saying it is at least better than Salman’s latest hit film or any other film. Thats completely incorrect IMO.
Also, if you read my reaction after FDFS.. I wrote it very clearly.. this movie disappoints based on the expectations, which is very fair standard IMO.
I’m different. I’d take this hirani film over others. If I hold a director to his previous record, he simply needs to make a better film each time. That does not mean Hirani cannot be critisised on his standards. I agree with that. But it does not mean I ‘disown’ his abilities.
I suppose as a payer of my ticket I can set my own standards. And that would be talented folk get judged on their talent but they are also not knocked down to the depths of poor talents if they don’t succeed especially if there creation is not to that level.
Let’s put it this way, if I held SRK to his 90s standards…he is long gone…or someone like Cruise too. However we still all turn up to their movies most of the time.
Master, the problem though is that the yardstick tends to change at both ends of the equation. Your point that Hirani or Ratnam should be judged by their own standards is a fair one and I don’t think anyone would argue otherwise. But precisely because these are more serious names the conversation doesn’t end with ‘disappointment’ if that is one’s response. There are many Scorsese films I find disappointing that I still engage with in different ways. This does not at all mean that I start comparing Scorsese to Hollywood on his worst days and still find him better. Rather it is that even weak Scorsese offers something interesting. Whereas if you make say a film in the Dhoom genre badly there’s nothing to be retrieved from it. It’s precisely the interesting filmmaker who can never be dismissed even when one finds one effort or the other less than some other. And this is the standard we use even at the highest levels of art. We don’t say we’re not going to look at Picasso’s average stuff! What Jay says makes perfect sense to me. I haven’t seen PK yet but I have this response to many other interesting filmmakers. I often prefer Ratnam’s flawed efforts to his perfect ones. Because failures are sometimes more interesting than completely realized successes.
On the rest I’d just say that (and I’m not directing this at you, making a larger point) it’s a bit odd to see people who are completely satisfied with all kinds of junk efforts from other Bollywood stars who then have the greatest problems when filmmakers like Hirani or Ratnam do less than what is expected of them (even accepting this for the moment to be true). Because such folks have never lived in that world to begin with. They’ve been living in the Kick or Bang Bang world! Suddenly they become greatly invested in quality cinema and hence are ‘disappointed’. I love junk films as much as the next person but the point is that those films don’t mean anything to me beyond escapist entertainment. I don’t discuss them seriously as great examples of anything. But most of the other folks do! They find great performances in films like Kick or whatever it is. They apparently feel HNY completely meets their expectations because they’ve only expected that much! Rather circular argument but that’s another matter. So if those are your choices for the most part you can’t suddenly be most disappointed when Ratnam makes Raavan or whatever. Again I’m not saying one should love everything but if one has never had the good sense or taste to insist on that bar in most cases one can’t suddenly go that ‘artsy’ one fine day (‘oh I’m disappointed I didn’t get Lagaan, now I’ll just go back to enjoying Rohit Shetty!’).
It’s always about how sincere one’s position is. I like most of Aamir’s choices one way or the other not because I’m devoted to it but that I became interested in him because he did those films (though I liked him earlier too it wasn’t at the same level). Similarly if I like Ratnam it’s so when he does Dil Se or Kadal, not just when he works with Abhishek. Raavan was panned, Kadal was equally in TN (though Raavanan wasn’t), I liked both films. So it’s a question of what one’s framework is. Again not directing this at you. Just making a larger point on why it’s hard to take criticism from a lot of people (not everyone) too seriously.
The Wazir Trailer looked so good on the Big Screen, and I really liked the “Achcha” seqyence and the Amitabh Bachchan and Ram Sethi sequence…it was so nice to see Ram Sethi getting that role !!!!
3 idiots was easily his most complex and best film imo, he took a simple coming of age story and gave it an epic bollywood treatment. PK is just not in the same league, but still a fine comedy. I would only rate Queen and Haider above it this year.
The complexity for me is in the topic. The only time I’ve seen significantly heated discussions is either on nationality or religion. Hirani’s previous topical films on socials gave messages that were far less edgy.
I liked Queen too but by big film I meant those by the top stars.
I do think Hirani will need to rethink future films in this ilk. I’m glad his next is the Dutt film and I hope he makes more a drama and darker film.
A word on Aamir. He walks away with a lot from this film. His performance holds the film and the role needed maturity and innocence. He once again delivers a complete performance unlike D3 which was patchy. Also his connection with social films and satayme jayete means he was right actor to deliver this act.
I liked Anushka, very natural.
Unfortunately as far as topic is concerned PK does not break new ground, because of OMG. There are even dialogues that are almost the same. This would not be a problem if the topic was routine but the novelty of high concept topics wears off quickly. Just imagine someone else making another gandhigiri or dreams heist film.
PK could have taken the religion debate further by having a more charismatic baba who presented a more convincing right wing case, but that would have made for a more controversial film.
Topic versus his previous films only. By the way ppl searching for answers or solutions on religion from a film director are missplacing there faith. or even for the film to provide some kind of debate. The film adequately disposed this notion perfectly in a scene.
Essentially there is no debate to be had!
PK Shows Good Growth On Saturday
Saturday 20 December 2014 23.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has shown good growth on Saturday as collections should cbe around 29 crore nett which will take it to 55 crore nett in the first two days. The 10-12% growth is good for a Saturday though this film lways had potential for growth as there was plenty of spare capacity.
The growth came from the multiplexes while single screens were in the same range as Friday. The plus for the film is that multiplexes outside the main metros showed an upturn though not as much as the metros. Delhi city and East Punjab have shown best growth as the collections for a multiplex film could have been better on day one.
The Sunday figure can comfortably clear 30 crore nett as the families will come out and if they take to it could be set for a big run..
It’s behaving the way Hirani’s movies usually do. Irrespective of where they end up they never start out massively on day 1 (a point I made months ago as well). With Hirani it’s always about stability and trending. It wasn’t just 3I on day 1, LRM for instance had a very good week 1 but it wasn’t like Fanaa (minus Gujarat) let alone in Krrish range or something. This when it was the sequel of such a hugely iconic film. But then in terms of trending it pretty much beat everything else in sight. The same for 3I. Obviously too early to know how this one will do in comparison with those films but the point is that when you don’t have a certain kind of ‘circus’ you cannot maximize initials (on day 1) in the same way. Hirani is too sincere a filmmaker to do that. Most other big films are designed to get a certain sort of response on day 1 and they of course do. Almost no one is like Hirani in terms of attempting a sincere film, at least at his scale of production (there are prestige directors whose films can become big or whatever but that’s a different thing). Even in comparison with Ghajini Ive always made this point. The latter excited the box office in certain ways that 3I didn’t, initially. It’s just a fact of life anywhere in the world that a certain kind of films attracts the largest audience initially. As for stars like Salman or Will Smith or whoever who keep producing the initials (though of course Will Smith’s best days are behind him) this is because they depend on complete repetition and essentially keep coming up with the same mix. If every Aamir film was like Ghajini presumably the initial would be massive every time on day 1!
But 3I destroyed every initial record too- biggest first day ever, biggest weekend ever. And it beat Ghajini’s first day/weekend by a bigger margin than Ghajini did the movie before it. Besides HNY, it should’ve had the highest first day then. But it looks to be 15 Crores less than D3’s weekend. But I think it can average 15-20 Crores on the weekends, I think the WOM is amazing. but 15 Crores is nothing, with the way Hirani movies trend, 15 Crores can be made in the 5th week!
was it the biggest first day at the time though? Didn’t think it was. Could be wrong. On the rest of course I do know but that’s my point, his films make it up in terms of trending.
Yeah it was the biggest first day by a distance. Found this old BOI article. I can’t find any authentic number for Ghajini’s first weekend though, the numbers I’m seeing make so sense considering that 3 Idiots had the highest weekend as well when it released. Actually Ghajini’s inital numbers seem shady to me…
Three Idiots Smashes First Day Records At The Box Office
Saturday 26th December 2009 15.00 IST
Boxofficeindia.Com Trade Network
Three Idiots has hit the box office like a hurricane and has smashed many first day records at the box office. All records at multiplexes have been smashed as it records collections which are just unbelievable. Many multiplexes have recorded double the collections of Ghajini for the first Friday. The first day business was an unimaginable 12.75 crore nett.
The previous record was for first Friday was 9.25 crore nett recorded by Ghajini last December. It must be noted that the Three Idiots first day was a Christmas Day holiday while Ghajini first Friday was a normal day but even accounting for for that, it is still a phenomenal collection. This takes the Three Idiots total to 15.50 crore nett with paid previews (2.75 crore nett) and the weekend seems to be heading for 37-39 crore nett collections which is out of this world.
The all India territorial breakdown is as follows. Apart from Bihar, Assam and Orissa all circuits have recorded new records for first Friday.
“But 3 Idiots had a release on 25 December, a holiday. But PK is a non holiday release and it is 2nd non holiday biggest opner.”
True but it’s behind D3 by 6-7 crores which is a lot. 3 Idiots, taking into the holiday and everything destroyed all previous first days- including the Dhooms, Ghajini’s, SIK, etc all the movies that had were designed for the first day initial bang like Satyam said.
Satyam, ur correct there in the way Hirani movies behave. But in terms of occupancies this one is pretty poor. The spare capacity is huge here. The first day is what a bang Bang did and less than the 3rd day of HNY which was on its way down. But the audience review here is on the good side so I have no doubts it will reach 200 crores at the very least. But its surprising why it opened so low. I was expecting an opening of around 30+ crores.
Possible reasons for PK’s comparitively low footfalls–1. aamir’s initial nude look in promos put off family audiences.My three nieces and nephew are not keen on film; normally they’d be busy getting tickets for first weekend.
2. Possible false WOM about supposed anti-Hindu content of film.Both OMG and PK talk of similar topic– but OMG had no Muslim connection in main cast, so spared the twitter-fb-trashing from righteous religious commenters finding malice in PK.
Many theatres are retaining old rates, but a few have raised ticket rates, leading to a ‘pirated dvd pk festival’ situation.
🙂 Rajen. Couldn’t negate a single point “the similar ilk” made yet somehow you doubt the intentions. Aamir rediscovered himself as an actor in Talaash and PK yet the movies did not match up. PK can be considered as Aamir’s comedy movie along with Andaz Apna Apna and i enjoyed both on that count.
I’m unlike you. At least I watched the movie first day and gave honest feedback. Moreover, I said, it will still be the No.1 or at the worst No.2 Hit of the year, which is certainly above 200 crore. There is enough audience for such a movie but my point is regarding the disappointment with respect to the plot. Samething I remember posting during Dhoom3, it will be the biggest hit but it won’t do 300 crore as it was dragging at some level and watching it looked like an exhaustive experience. Here too, if had been perfectly seamless story telling, it would have done 300 crore without a doubt.
PK deserves to do well better than most so-called BBs we have this year. The cinema we have has stooped to the level of Action Jackson/HNY. In that respect, PK is a far superior film. Yes, it was a disappointment for me considering the humungous expectations I had (Hirani never disappointed me). But it still is a decent Hindi film and better than all Salman and SRK films made in the meantime
Aamir has definitely taken over US. D3 > CE, PK > HNY, Talaash > MNIK. HNY is actually extremely low considering the promotions done. And Chennai Express is extremely high considering it’s a Rohit Shetty movie and came out when SRK was at an all time low! But Deepika has 5/10 top 10 opening days!
saw the movie in Chicago on Friday and all the shows were sold out. this is certainly doing well here in the US and think it will only get stronger. I really don’t know how well it will hold up in India though…it does have a very liberal view…but as far as an entertainer…this is one of the best pure entertainers i’ve seen in a while! think Dabangg was the last film I thoroughly enjoyed. Also this is definitely the weakest Hirani movie yet…has some loose ends. LRM remains his best most complete work IMO.
“On the whole, PK is an outstanding entertainer with a strong message relevant to all human beings. It will easily prove to be one of the biggest Bollywood blockbusters, probably, the biggest also. It has all chances to emerge as the first film to cross the Rs. 300-crore mark.”
Through the movies of Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and others, Hindi film lovers of a certain vintage are familiar with romantic ideas like love for humanity and rejection of religious and nationalistic barriers. But with a cross-country, inter-religious love story in their screenplay, Hirani and Joshi are closer to Nehruvian ideals of rationalism, scientific temper and socialism. P.K. is a dialectic on religion on the big screen, without much of the splendour of cinematic technique. It is rooted in dialogue, scene and character, like Hirani’s other films. But the director’s biggest feat is the idea, its effortless translation and its politics. Someone in the broad-stroke canvas of populist Hindi cinema has finally spoken on behalf of the agnostic. Given the news headlines, how much more relevant can that get?
yes, I made this point the other day. Glad this film has been made on this subject at this very point. Enjoyed reading this piece (though I wish a statement like ‘dialectic on religion’ had been avoided!). Thanks.
At the moment in India. WOM is very strong. Also heard that its been given PG-15 rating in the middle-east, but apparently tickets are sold out for the whole week in the UAE.
Apparently, in India, there was some apprehension with the content initially, but it seems to have caught on.
I am especially pleased this Nehruvian film released at this very point! And to make an even more political point 70% of India did not vote for this current wave. Modi himself did not run on the old BJP platform. The point is that the Nehruvian social compact is rather more durable than one might think. Fortunately so, in my view!
yes true.. but the point is that the last time around the Congress got 28% or something (without the allies). This time the BJP got 31% and of course a big majority. That’s the way things work in parliamentary democracy. However if one hypes it as a major wave, one that’s going to reset India and so on then the actual voting numbers belie that. Of course India has always been a lot more segmented in this sense. Nehru himself never got more than 55% of the vote or something. But 40% isn’t an unreasonable bar if this is how the election has been read (huge wave and so on). Certainly one doesn’t expect the pure numbers to be only a little better than those the Congress got. And this by the way when Modi did not run on the old BJP platform and essentially ran as a technocrat. The larger point once again is that no matter how much India might have changed over time (and it would be foolish to deny this) no one has been able to show anything like his strength. Even remotely close. Now one might say that Indian politics is a lot more segmented now and so on and that’s fair. But then one shouldn’t otherwise run with the narrative that would lead one to believe (if one didn’t notice the actual numbers) that two-thirds had voted for him! Having said that I’m not completely sanguine about this either because even with less support (overall) a lot can be achieved with the right parliamentary composition. the good news though is (from my perspective) that the current govt has already backed away from some of its key positions, certainly some very controversial ones. The dark side here is that the loonies have to be given more oxygen to make up for this (otherwise they’d rebel in disappointment). Getting back to PK even if the satire is not too sharp as some reviewers have suggested it will nonetheless be enough to irk many folks!
On a related note the BJP and the Samajvadi in tandem are playing a very dirty game in UP.
‘Nehruvian film’
LOL. looks like Modi win has pissed off so many people for eternal time period even those sitting far away from India.
While you criticize others for giving political angle to a politics discussion, you never shy off bringing your frustration out in film discussion giving complete political color.
As for such Nehruvians, their hypocrisy get exposed when they stop functioning of parliament for 3 weeks over issue of Re-conversion. While, same nehruvian call for strike against anti-conversion Law. When re-conversion happens, that means same people were converted in last few years, then all were silent. Why not just support anti conversion law and support it for one and all.
God save us from such hypocrite nehruvians.
When Aaptards and certain Sickularist use the 31% argument , I can understand but if (until now) rational people like Satyam also start this Khisiyanee language then it pains me. Just keep being in denial. Have NO concept of how the Democracy works. Spins, spins and another spin.
One more point India specially Hindus usually keep their Movies and politics separate.
OMG was a hit and Paresh Rawal was elected, enough said.
That is why they vote for Modi and watch the Khans’ movies. So quit making the connection that PK is liked by the 70% people who did not vote for Modi .
P.S.- I loved PK, and do not think it is anti Hindus , it is against the middlemen , which a lot of people are victims of.
P.S. 2-
You’re conflating two things here… if 70% did not vote for Modi or 60% did not vote for the larger alliance presumably they were not persuaded by the message? Even if one looks at historic standards Modi was still 15-25% short (i.e. the highest percentages won by one party). This does not mean that people on the Right (though obviously many people who voted for Modi voted for the technocrat, not because they’re culturally or even politically on the right) don’t watch movies with Nehruvian agendas. Why? Because an entertaining enough movie will get everyone on board. There are many Hindutva types who are big SRK fans. Actually this doesn’t at all mean that people keep these things apart but that’s a different story (many bourgeois types never liked the ideology of Bachchan’s films.. they still showed up because again the entertainment factor there was important.. not because they forgot their politics/values). I’ve always said that the Modi wave is the other side of the coin of the SRK Yahsraj/Johar phase (at least as it existed then). Both sides don’t like this argument but the ‘New Indian’ link is a fairly obvious one. Obviously they’re not on the same side politically in a literal sense. Now as for the Nehruvian thing that is still in many ways what people believe in, including paradoxically many on the Right! How? Because the Right is always about redressing some ‘wrong’ or restoring some sort of balance. Barring the total fanatics they claim to be anti-minority only inasmuch as they feel that the minority has been indulged in too much. Otherwise the BJP mouthpieces speak the Nehruvian language daily on TV even as they proceed to make a mockery of it. The point is this: why does one even try to do this?
Also movies are not something that one watches in brain-dead fashion. To ‘enjoy’ AAA you have to be willing to buy into that idea of Desai’s. To some extent. The idea (and I’ve written on this at length before) that somehow there’s a kind of entertainment which has no ideological component to it is total nonsense. Even the worst saas-bahu serials on TV are steeped in ideology. In any case I wasn’t drawing the kind of simplistic link you’re suggesting.
Leaving all this aside Rocky I think it’s unfortunate you’ve become increasingly reactionary over time. This is a terrible format to conduct arguments in. When others do name-calling they’re just ‘commie sickos’, when you (or the Right) does name-calling you’re merely factual. When people vote for the Congress for 10 years you keep lambasting the govt and the left and so on. When people vote for the BJP suddenly the ‘people’s choice’ must be respected. Beyond this it’s about trying to muffle any criticism or analysis as being definitionally illegitimate. In your worldview what is the possible position from which one might criticize the Right? If you’re honest the answer is NONE! But by the same token the same is not allowed to the other side. This is frankly a very fundamentalist way of arguing. You’re not this sort of person. I don’t see why you should try and sound like those who really are.
Anyway off for a PK screening. I’m a Nehruvian, that’s why! LOL! I’ll catch up later.
The movie is certainly enjoyable. Only jarring point I can think of is the Pakistan angle. The guy could have been any Indian Muslim. But when your intentions are right you overlook these small things.
My PK Review…. saw it yesterday in a housefull 6.15 show in Chicago. The movie is really good and compared to the seriousness the film OMG took, PK was much lighter. Here’s the point by point feelings;
1. First half was thoroughly entertaining and i guess the whole crowd was in splits.
2. Movie’s strength is Aamir Khan. I think he should be getting some big award this time for it.
3. Songs are effectively blended.
4. In comparison to OMG, PK took out the politics out of it. There were no netas here and only Godmen.
People calling this movie anti hindu, take a chill pill. This was a movie and there were pointers to muslim community about bomb blast and fatvas on girl education and a direct christian reference of religious conversions. So i think it covered it all.
This movie was full on entertainment and without a dull moment, infact the length of the movie is less than 3I.
I haven’t seen anyone saying it was anti hindu other than some shahrukh fans trying deliberately damaging PK.
Actually, there is nothing to damage here, i found it hardly entertaining.
OMG was much more bold, shocking and full on entertaining with thrilling, chilling and comedy. And then it restores faith in God in more prudent way.
PK is only about criticism, and childish activity, it shied off of bold action. It is much lighter film catering to much wider audience. But, thrilling experience in OMG is more enjoyable for me than full on comedy and same romantic melodrama. PK is very predictable.
I would say 3/5 for me.
That’s right. I think OMG was targetting atheism vs religious beliefs and stupidity and it had a complete answers overall. I felt Raju Hirani might have changed a lot of script due to the OMG came in 2012. Well i am responding to the trend boycottpk etc…when OMG was starring Paresh Rawal at helm, who is now a BJP MP ..from Ahmedabad. I think overall we should just treat it as a movie and from an entertainment stanpoint, it worked for everyone in the audience. Will trend well.
Very entertaining to see the ‘new’ OMG fans who have suddenly realized how good it was. With so
Many people liking it,I wonder how it didn’t make 250 crores.
Just like there were so many ‘new’ Vikram fans at the time of Raavan release.
So very predictable.
For the record,I loved OMG and even more the play it was based on.
New OMG fans.Ha ha! Well, I have always wished to watch OMG, but did not go out of my way to get dvd/ search the net. Never caught it on tv, either.Should do so. Watching PK tomorrow.
Facebook is full of threads terming PK anti-Hindu, slamming Aamir the Muslim who dared to take on such a role. My query–Why couldn’t he do safe films like the other Khans.Salman is considered a saint despite his incidents-legal problems. SRK gets the occasional ‘paki/porki’ gaali.But Aamir is considered a hypocrite for doing SMJ( and getting paid for it)and now with this venomous twitter trolling ( somebody predicts that Aamir will turn ISIS terrorist by 60 yrs; on the internet you are allowed to write bs of the worst sort)–Aamir is the big bad Bollywood villian and Hirani his sidekick. Sad, pathetic.
Rentrak’s no. for PK -$26M (approx. 156 cr) worldwide for 1st weekend – “Notably, the Bollywood comedy “P.K.” from UTV earned over $22 million this weekend in just 21 international territories and broke into the North American Top 10 in its debut in just 272 locations for a global total of nearly $26 million.”
it says international around $22M – which is roughly 130 cr gross = 100 cr nett (after 30% tax ded.) – looks less because that includes the 80-90% chunk from India. What about the gulf and other makrets??
The movie seems to have done well on Sunday and all sorts of figures are been thrown around ranging from 35 cr to 42 cr which is huge considering this is the third day for the movie. But I also feel this may be the third and final big day in terms of numbers….
I would be surprised if the movie does more than 200-220cr in its total run because it is still a very avg movie and there were many ordinary and dragging sequences in the middle which basically prevents a repeat audience…..necessary for a great trender. It may be better than the rest of the crap dished out but still not a completely satisfying movie experience. If item songs are thrown in masala entertainer to spice up the proceedings, this movie too had its fair share of forced sequences and bringing Bhojpuri and chewing pan were unnecessary to the mix imo.
Hope we are able to discuss the shortcomings of this movie in more details when more people have seen this and there is no fear of giving out spoilers…….
something amusing about a Salman fan so ‘disappointed’ about weekend grosses or about ‘average’ movies.. now you might say that Salman’s movies are average too but that Salman makes them something more and so on.. but then there’s something even more amusing in believing Salman is Amitabh bachchan!
That’s a very objective point of view and kudos to that! It seems a Salman fan has lost all rights to watch / praise / criticize a regular movie which gets the cerebral crowd in orgasmic
mode !!.
And while we are on that point Bachchan for most part of his top innings was castigated by the same well read and savvy crowd and made fun…..btw I am not a believer in revisionist history…..
Don’t you think its time you come down from that high horse and just accept facts for what they are….at least in the context of hindi film industry…….beacuse if wishes were horses, beggars would ride and actors like Abhi would not be acting a lackey to Ranbir and engaged in daily servilities. Check Pinkvilla today and there is ample evidence right there……….
‘Hobbit’ Movie Wins Box Office Skirmish
By BROOKS BARNES DECEMBER 21, 2014 12:34 PM December 21, 2014 12:34 pm
“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” collected $90.6 million in ticket sales during its first five days in North American theaters, slightly better than the five-day total for last year’s “Hobbit” installment.
“The Battle of the Five Armies,” the final entry in this particular Middle Earth trilogy, cost the New Line division of Warner Bros. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer at least $200 million to make, not including at least another $100 million in marketing, according to analysts.
As expected, Imax theaters were an important contributor to the performance of “The Battle of the Five Armies,” which was directed by Peter Jackson and received weaker reviews than its two franchise predecessors.
Overseas, “The Battle of the Five Armies” has taken in an additional $265 million.
Second place for the weekend went to “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” (20th Century Fox), which took in a so-so $17.3 million over its first three days of release, according to Rentrak, which compiles box office data. The $127 million “Secret of the Tomb,” the third chapter in Fox’s “Night at the Museum” series, probably suffered a bit from franchise fatigue. But analysts say families could still power the movie to strong overall sales given the upcoming Christmas holiday.
The same might be true of “Annie,” Sony’s $65 million modernization of the classic musical. “Annie” opened in third place, taking in an estimated $16.3 million. Sony on Sunday said that “Annie,” which suffered pre-release piracy as a result of the cyberattack on the studio, is “on track for strong play and long legs well into the holidays and winter season ahead.”
PK Breaks Records On Sunday
Monday 22 December 2014 08.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK jumped everywhere on Sunday especially at places where business was less than it should have been over the first two days. The mass circuits all showed huge gains be it Gujarat, CP Berar or CI. Some of these circuits were 50% up. The film is breaking records on sundat at places.
The film has set circuit records in a few circuits and it could emerge with highest single opening day ever. Happy New Year in Hindi had grossed around 36.50 crore nett day one and this is PK on Sunday is looking at the range. The Sunday collections are sure to be over 35 crore nett and if the Mumbai and Delhi totals come up at records or near records it will go to 36 crore nett plus
The weekend of the film has cleared 90 crore nett and is the third highest weekend of all time with Sunday challenging to be the highest single day in history..
Haven’t seen any negative reviews on FB timeline. On film forums, some people have issues with second half or OMG similarity.
ps – It will easily do above 200. Monday-Tuesday will give hints about 300.
ps1 – Personally I found it better than 3 Idiots. I thought some portions of second half could have been trimmed. An Jo’s review correctly points that there is some confusion regrading age old customs and superstitions. The film talks about all religions but main antagonist is Hindu godman.
PK is wholesome entertainment. I am tired of delusional SRK and ludicrous SK fans deriding this awesome movie. People do not realize how hard it is to make an excellent movie that is also hugely entertaining. This movie made time elapse quickly. If Iived all my life watching such movies I would fee I only lived 10 years
This movie does not discriminate between religions. However since 80% of Indians are Hindus it focuses 80% of its time on that. Raju Hirani and his script writer are genius. Aamir Khan is unbelievable. Anushka has finally reached her potential. It is a master stroke to show an unbiased perspective it is all about the perspective. This movie deserves to the all time highest gross not insipid D3 or crap like HNY.
Also it is high time a movie shows Pakistanies as suave decent enigmatic people they usually are not the ridiculous terrorist caricature they are made out to be.
this is good to see…it really is a enjoyable movie..and has lots of LOL moments. like i said..its a great entertainer. but really thought the subject would have a limit..but i guess something seems to be striking chord here!
Spoiler alert.
The love story is essential here for me. It’s cleverly woven as the perfect medicine for all that is wrong and along with peace was the only option as a solution. Hirani’s mastery cannot be understated on this score. The love story provides the problem, the irony and solution. It also provokes the solution on PKs part. His character needed to fall in love to see how the world he so couldn’t understand actually can work. And actually he is convinced that he wants to stay until he learns that love too can hurt.
The film has many messages, some clearly spoken and some not. On this score it’s just a master at work.
The issue is the pacing and editing and basically there are some dragging moments. The climax though ultimately sends this film off so well that it’s forgotten pretty quickly.
Audiences will warm to Aamirs act. Anushka too.
I am not surprised with this Friday to Sunday trend. Hirani’s films can do this, he lives up to the hype in a more subtle way in a clever outing. I would say he touched on peace in LRM and love was the only option against War.
PK Breaks Records On Sunday
Monday 22 December 2014 08.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK jumped everywhere on Sunday especially at places where business was less than it should have been over the first two days. The mass circuits all showed huge gains be it Gujarat, CP Berar or CI. Some of these circuits were 50% up. The film is breaking records on sundat at places.
The film has set circuit records in a few circuits and it could emerge with highest single opening day ever. Happy New Year in Hindi had grossed around 36.50 crore nett day one and this is PK on Sunday is looking at the range. The Sunday collections are sure to be over 35 crore nett and if the Mumbai and Delhi totals come up at records or near records it will go to 36 crore nett plus
The weekend of the film has cleared 90 crore nett and is the third highest weekend of all time with Sunday challenging to be the highest single day in history..
PK Has Huge Weekend – Phenomenal Trending
Monday 22 December 2014 10.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has had a huge weekend of around 92.50 crore nett. The film had a start which was not up to the mark at places but on Sunday it had extraordinary numbers all over with all circuits at record levels or close to record levels.
The film grossed 26 crore nett on Friday, 29.50 crore nett on Saturday and 37 crore nett on Sunday. The business is being driven by multiplexes with multiplex to single screen ratio much higher when compared to other big blockbusters. The trend of the film is phenomenal with a 11 crore nett gain on Sunday from Friday.
This can happen when a film is very lopsided towards multiplex collections as Saturday and Sunday are best days for multiplex collections. The mass centres were excellent on Sunday and if this continues it will post a huge lifetime total, possibly the biggest ever.
we have xmas on Thursday / then you have a Sat/Sunday coming up – these 3 days can each have 20 cr? take the rest of the days as 10 cr (average) – so by next Friday – we can still have 200 cr mark crossed – the movie will trend with strong WOM
I watched this in DC 6 pm show on Friday. After the show, more than half of the theater erupted in claps. Why are there people still doubting WOM?
When I talked of ‘long legs’ versus front-loading with respect to BANG BUNG and HAIDER, I was ridiculed here by you know who. I am thinking with PK’s trending [ahh that evil, disgusting word in Hi-fi of today], I am right on the path to having the last laugh..
I care two hoots how much this movie makes, if story-telling is the winner here, that’s enough of poetic justice for me…
As per Rentrak, PK earned $ 22.1M outside US and if I take $4M other overseas territories, India gross comes to 112 crs, which should be equal to 84 crs Nett (considering 75% of Gross).
Am I missing something here or if 92 crs is correct, other overseas territories are just $2.5 M, seems unlikely.
Even Rentrak has ending numbers as 000 for ll international movies. So tier2 and 3 Single screens are not computerized and they also do an approximation like all.
Great result. 19 crore on a working day compared to Friday 26 crore another working day. Only full fledged holiday that it has got is Sunday and it exploded at 37 crore. Now waiting for a good Christmas result.
I am just putting information that i saw on BOI. Someone asked them this and they replied that the overall budget for PK with promotions is 75 crore. This doesnt include Aamir and Raju Hirani’s compensation. So essentially that would be based off on the overall earnings of the movie i.e. Theatrical, Satellite and Music.
Vidhu is safe now. He can keep making whatever ‘high-art’ he wants now that Aamir and Hirani have pumped capital into his company with their ‘key-art’; for another five years. Then he will run into rough weather; and Hirani will again pump life for another 5 years with another milestone. And the saga will continue and Vidhu will continue talking and talking..
I know. I read the same thing . And, there is no way around it. Just that absence of hard figures for those two leaves one guessing how the economics of the movie would work.
Anyway, everyone is going to make money except those poor souls who bet against it!
If I remember correctly, In opening credits he, LK Advani, Amitabh and Amitabh jhunjhunwala were thanked. On my FB timeline I have multiple people who are followers of him. I don’t know if he calls himself god/messenger or not like other Godmen.
Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ Is Biggest Ever Bollywood Bow In North America
UPDATE, 12:11 PM PT MONDAY: The numbers not only held, they were markedly increased for Aamir Khan-starrer PK in North America, scoring the biggest Bollywood opening of all time with a confirmed $3.57M at 272 locations. That bests Khan’s Dhoom 3 which released to $3.44M in the same corridor last December. Disney’s UTV, which is distributing the film, says the three-day take for the day-and-date release in India was $21M. That also bests Dhoom 3 last year which opened to $17.64M locally. Other international markets on PK, including the UK, Pakistan, the Netherlands and more, scored $4.27M in their openings. The global cume of PK over the weekend thus stands at $28.84M. There’s some controversy in India from religious groups against the film which poses questions about belief systems, but that hasn’t seemed to dent box office. PK is now the second biggest opener of 2014, behind Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year which just today was made available to worldwide audiences online.
the audience in Chicago was very enthusiastic throughout the movie. A lot of clapping, laughing and loud cheers for many dialogues and key scenes in the movie. And also clapping towards the end of course. Last time I was at a US theatre that was *this* enthusiastic for an Hindi movie was Lagaan. HNY had loud laughs but no cheers and clapping during dialogues…but yes they did give an standing ovation towards the end…so not sure what that means. lol.
Just watched it at a housefull show in Dubai. This is a working day, and the 10:30 show was housefull. No kids allowed (15+ movie cert here).
Needless to say, I owe an apology to the board for my previous rants on Aamir wide-eyed look. IMHO, one of the greatest bwood performances ever by a leading man, I mean, he just nailed it perfectly. No one else cudve played it, his expressions, speech, mannerisms were astounding. His singular best career performance!
Nothing much to add for the movie, it already has been discussed threadbare. Just Superb. And this will defn trend big. Hirani proves once again that good content wins BIGTIME.
PS – Not sure if this has been discussed, but the scene of Pyarelal (Ram Sethi) trying to sneak into the Bachchan show was rib-tickling. Wonder how Hirani bought the eternal BigB sidekick back from hibernation.
They missed out a crucial scene in PK. When PK walks into the cinema he asks ‘why did this movie only last 7 days in cinema? A FAN of the film says…who cares it’s made 100 crore…it’s a hit. PK says ‘this is a 7 day film. It seems on earth you have 7 day films, even 3 day films. PK says he’ll make a 35 day film.And in his planet they only make good films. Not 3day films pretending to be good films.’
With a nearly $26 million gross from 22 territories including India, Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan’s PK was at number four in the world box office over the weekend for distributor UTV.
A powerful $3.4 million of that came from North America where it is being shown on some 270 screens.
With excellent word-of-mouth and positive reviews in The New York Times, PK could be the highest grossing Hindi film of all times in the foreign market.
The NYT called the film ‘a sweet, ambling comedy.’ It wrote: ‘Mr Hirani remains an excellent storyteller, weaving his disparate story strands into a convincing, satisfying whole — a rare Bollywood feat.’
But it criticised the film for lacking the sting as a satire and mistook the Bhojpuri dialect for Hindi.
With the lucrative holiday period around the corner, PK could eclipse the $25 million overseas record of Hirani and Aamir’s 3 Idiots. In North America, PK was the tenth highest grossing film over the weekend.
PK is the first film in India tracked by the international agency Rentrak which collects data directly from the theatres daily.
The highest grossing film worldwide over the weekend was Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies, which grossed a muscular $161 million from some 70 territories.
More amazing was the success of the Chinese action-drama, Gone with the Bullets, which debuted in China to a rousing $36 million, according to Rentrak.
UTV will continue PK on the same number of screens in North America in its second week, expecting a smaller than 60 per cent decline for Bollywood films in their second week.
PK Sets All Time Record On Monday
Tuesday 23 December 2014 11.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK continues to breaks records on Monday with the highest Monday collections of all time with a collection of 21 crore nett apprx. The four days figure for the film is over 114 crore nett. The drop on Monday is just 20% from Friday collections which has never happened before since films started to record these 20 crore nett plus days.
The film did not start on a record breaking spree and it was Sunday when it came into its own and continued record breaking run on Monday. The records are likely to be broken for sometime yet and may possibly be on for the highest gross ever though the next few days will tell more.
The business on Sunday and Monday has been universal apart from Bihar which has not really come on board but other areas which started below the mark like Gujarat and UP are now collecting very well.
“Abhijat Joshi, who has co-scripted PK with Hirani, is the elder brother of playwright Saumya Joshi, who works closely with Umesh Shukla, the director of OMG Oh My God and long-running Gujarati play Kanji Virudh Kanji from which OMG Oh My God is adapted. In fact, Saumya has written 102 Not Out, the film featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Paresh Rawal that Umesh Shukla is directing in 2015.”
Apparently, Saumya had invited Hirani and Abhijat to see the play. “They saw and were very impressed by Kanji Viruddh Kanji. They immediately began to plan a film on the merchandizing of religion. But then, they got to know that Umesh Shukla was shooting a film based on his own play. Immediately, the script plan was revised and the idea of a “dream snatcher” from Christopher Nolan’s Inception was brought in. That’s how PK was born,” says the source.
In the defense of the PK team, the source says, “Raju Hirani and Abhijat Joshi are brilliant writers. They don’t need to borrow ideas from anywhere. They just liked the idea of religion as a commercial enterprise and wanted to use it. The minute they got to know Umesh Shukla was making OMG Oh My God! , they changed tracks completely.”
Highest Single Day Collections Of All Time – PK Tops
Tuesday 23 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
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PK created history on Sunday by collecting the highest amount ever in one single day. The top five highest single days in his tory are as follows.
There are three other times when key benchmark of 30 crore nett has been crossed and that is the first day of Ek Tha Tiger and Chennai Express and also the second day of Dhoom 3. Dhoom 3 remains the only film to have crossed 30 crore nett three times, no other film has crossed it even twice.
PK is going to have a huge Tuesday reading some early reports. At this rate Xmas day might be 30+. Friday will be important, if it beats d3 10crore it should be beating d3 lifetime and then the race for 300cr is truly on.
Neo: BOI had only Hindi as 40crore for HNY’s 1st day. Now they mention about 36 crores while talking about PK. Thats the change people are talking about.
Are you happy with the response to PK?
Yes, I am very happy with the response to the film.
A lot of people from the film fraternity have texted me saying that it is my best performance to date, which is really encouraging.
I have worked really hard. PK is one of the toughest films of my career.
One common reaction is that PK has an Oh My God hangover. Did you see that coming?
Thematically PK and Oh My God are similar, but the plot is totally different. The characters and circumstances of both films are different from each other.
Numerous films have been made on the same lines. In fact, I feel there should be 10 more films in the space of PK and Oh My God.
PK’s box office collection is only rising and that is an indication that people are watching the film and liking it.
Satyam, by the way u removed Balachander’s death post from here… my ‘oh pretty sad’ comment might be taken in response for PK’s boxoffice success! Lol. 😀
Sorry folks -Havent yet seen PK (due to varied reasons)
But do I need to see it ?since I’m the ‘alien’and a hirani fan girl poured the storyline (& her heartnsoul)to me even before I saw PK
But good to see somebody gettin the due
Somebody who is NOT
BONING a starlet
Havin fun on the side
Doin ‘business’
‘Balancing risk’ like a portfolio
Somebody who does NOT own a football or kabaddi or cricket team
Somebody who gives his all to a film
I’ve only heard the soundtrack
Since I’m fond of music
In the age of digital remixing, Dubb step, voice treatment
I heard n enjoyed
Two songs of the erstwhile singer who is really a ‘singer’
Waste of time &
Mere Bhagwan
The point is in above all these pro and anti aamir folks
The anti aamir folks have to openly admit that this guy has given it his all
The pro aamir fans have to realise that if dhoon3 was cramp as per their own admission and as per poor trending (sic!)
Then beating d3 numbers can’t be a benchmark for an aamir-hirani flick after 3 years in the making
400 crores is the target!!
And not 300 or d3!!
Be fair folks
Ps: somehow I may manage to goto a PK screening but do I really need to ?
As of now
Bhagwan hai kahaan hai tu?
Ai Khuda
Hai kahan hai tu?
Can there really be any real BO debate anymore? 4/5 of Aamir’s last films have been all time grossers. Starter of the 100, 200, 250 and soon to be 300 crore club. Top 3/5 overseas grossers are his. USA is about to hit $10 million for the first time. Even UK is gone for SRK as dhoom 3 is the highest grosser there as the gulf is about to be gone for SRK/Salman as well. Just total domination everywhere…except
Maybe in Bihar and Germany!
I guess the first day record is staying with SRK for a while but Weekend will for sure be gone on Eid/Diwali 2015!
Also I still haven’t been able to see PK yet, hoping to see it this weekend
Other so called hit movies marketing budget and the time spent by cast was humongous and PK’s was miniscule..just print posters release events!
Considering that PK is an undisputed, universal, genuine hit.
9 City press tours, Social Media, Interviews. The Less is more approach of PK is well documented on financial express and other business journals. The reason they did it was, for the fact to not disclose any aspects of the script. That would have made the general public immediately reach to the conclusion of treating it like OMG..This is the best marketing win in recent times.
As per Indicine, Boxofficecapsule and others..Tuesday is 18-20 Crore range again. PK is now pretty much trending like a Hirani film.
I have been following some discussions that Satyam and Sandy used to have on Naachgaana once 3I released and said how the script was champion there and how even SRK would have produced the same result.
I feel with PK, Aamir Khan is the real champion of the movie as he is carrying the movie on his own. This is not an ensemble like 3I which had meaty portions ala Virus, R Madhavan or Sharman Joshi’s Raju Rastogi…this is Aamir’s film out and out and will benefit him immensely.
“how even SRK would have produced the same result”
I don’t think Satyam would say something like this. He probably would suggest that movie would be different.
Actually I never said anything of the sort. Sandy might have but I certainly did not. I’ve made a few points in this regard (and I’ve always been consistent on this). First off I’d say it’s completely false to look at a successful film and then conduct the thought experiment of substituting one star with another and suggest finally that the result would be the same. The star also makes the film’s ‘world’, he isn’t just thrown into it as an incidental matter. For instance I am pretty certain Aamir would not have had the same sort of impact that SRK did in those 90s Yashraj films. Similarly I don’t believe SRK would be half as successful in many of Aamir’s films. This is also by the way why it’s a fantasy to think (as some do) that if Salman is getting 200 crores in junk films he’d get a lot more in a better film. He wouldn’t! Because he’s liked precisely in the junk film. No one is there to see him do RDB! Now at a certain level of filmmaking with completely generic stars/movies you can do that. So it probably doesn’t matter at this point whether it’s Arjun Kapoor in a movie or Varun Dhawan or whoever. Not because their skill sets are the same but because they are not singular enough one way or the other.
Now on whether SRK could produce in general this sort of success that is possible in the sense that he’s still the kind of star who can get a certain kind of initial on his strongest days. However those films are also the reason why he can never trend too well. If you do films like HNY you can get huge day 1 numbers but no one is likely to watch those films after a few days. A CE is the rare exception. Or when you’re Salman getting huge numbers in nothing films precisely those films will cap your grosses (except on the odd day when you do a better than expected film in the same genre though even there we saw with Dabanng that the trending was still nothing like Ghajini’s let alone 3I’s.. and this is a film most people liked). A certain kind of star will always be potentially placed to get those highest numbers but in reality will not always manage it as easily. It’s not a coincidence why Aamir keeps putting up new benchmarks (across genres) whereas the others struggle to match those highest numbers even in the most commercial genres. And specifically on Aamir-SRK I’ve always said that the latter doesn’t have enough sincerity as an actor to pull off as successfully much that Aamir has over the past 15 years. So I’ve stated the very opposite.
But again as for those who keep saying that SRK or Salman could get the very same results it must be incredible charity or incredible stupidity (or both!) on their part that prevents them from doing the same! I have not been one of those saying it! Now having said all this films are about the script and so forth as well. It’s never just the star showing up, otherwise no film would ever flop with a major star. But things get politicized so that online (and otherwise) when films work people want their favorite stars to get complete credit. And vice versa.
“And specifically on Aamir-SRK I’ve always said that the latter doesn’t have enough sincerity as an actor to pull off as successfully much that Aamir has over the past 15 years. ”
Thanks Satyam for the explanation. But overall from the debate lot of power was given to the script back when 3I was released, however with PK, its mostly Aamir Khan taking the onus to take the film to altogether new level.
‘But again as for those who keep saying that SRK or Salman could get the very same results it must be incredible charity or incredible stupidity (or both!) on their part that prevents them from doing the same!’
It’ll be very interesting to see where Amir goes from here. He successfully piggybacked on the dhoom series and hirani. I don’t understand how he can repeat this sort of success in the future. He is not like SRK who can create magic on screen and make even trash look reasonable. He needs a solid script to impress the audience. Let’s see what he does next.
This is a very lame argument. Just because a guy chooses reasonable scripts does not mean he doesn’t have credibility of his own. We all saw what happened to box office of Swades (good film nonetheless) when Srk picked it- compared to that a TZP when Aamir did it.
your argument is as good as saying,, Srk can create magic with Trash only.
ha ha – a man who is responsible for 100/200/250 cr clubs and the best diversified movies in last 15 years can or can’t repeat this sort of success in future – what does it matter???? chill man – SRK/SALLU/AKKI /AJAY are aeons behind aamir in terms of content and in terms of BO – aamir need not prove nothing to anybody………….
SRK Trash (HNY) 250cr
That pretty much sums up the magic quotient. What you refer to magic is the audience connect which somewhere down the years has been lost by SRK. Aamir ensured just about enough audience connect (via the twin rivalry/jealousy plot) to propel D3 forward. But when SRK tried something similar via the “revenge father death” device in HNY, the results were less than spectacular. In fact, he needed Rohit Shetty’s audience connect in order to break 200cr with CE.
I agree that Sallu is on a diff planet. His movies are generally trash (barring a Dabanng), and it is his charm solely that takes them to safety. But even he has been unable to break the ever-increasing BO benchmarks being set by Aamir with each passing year since Ghajini.
Aamir is the only star in the last 7 years to break the opening day, first weekend, first week, second weeks and lifetime record with 3 films: ghajini, 3 idiots and d3. No other star has done this, the only records they have nabbed are first day or first weekend or first week.
With PK his film failed in this score but it’s on course for first week, most likely second week and lifetime too.
His films test the market whereas the others are running a shorter race over 3 days or 7 days. There films just don’t have legs. CE and Dabanng come close but still not in the stratosphere of Aamirs 4 films in terms of box office performance.
I find the debate now a pretty closed one until another star does what Aamir has been doing in this period – Chase his own records.
In overseas Aamir now practically is #1 too. Top 3 earners will be his.
prasad,
that is the weirdest comment I have read,amir has done every different role and guess what he passed with flying colours,srk fans want like it but amir khan has his own level where srk and others will need binoculors.
master,gox and naveen, you tried your best to bring the film down but this film had so much that paying public could not miss it…
media should recognice and make amir the best ever superstar
or superplusstar
PK Heads For Highest All Time First Week Total
Wednesday 24 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK is heading for the highest first week total of all time as it set to edge past the 173 crore nett total of Dhoom 3 which was set last Christmas. After five days Dhoom 3 is around 2 crore nett ahead but that lead will be wiped out over the next two days.
The advance bookings are huge for Christmas and it looks like the film will have a better total on Christmas Day than it had on day one. It also helps that PK will not have that weak day after a big holiday which Dhoom 3 had on day seven.
The way the film is going it may well go past the 180 crore nett mark which will give it a phenomenal average of 25.75 crore nett over the first days. It means the average collection of the film in seven days is similar to the first day collection of the film.
so 28-30cr on Thursday is a possibility…friday will be at least another 15cr…maybe even more. glad the film is being received like this. i think the comedy has worked big time, along with the theme of course. this is what a true entertainer behaves like at the box office IMO.
master. you should contribute something to the blog, instead of just useless negativity on all stars except srk.
Every movie feedback, good or bad, is equally valid and important to a film blog and certainly more than your inconsequential posts.
yes but your feedback for tis film was so awful that yours words have come to haunt you,its only because PK has done so wel and the you change your tune.
That is exceptional. Aamir has successfully manufactured a blockbuster. He just does it…he doesnt have the fan following (10.2mn twitter followers), boxoffice doesnt respect him (100,200,250 cr clubs)… i dont know what will happen to him now…last i read…directors are changing script to suit what Aamir likes. Huh!
Toi is spreading lots of negativity. First they said that Aamir bribed OMG producer with 8 crores to stall that film. Now they say it is offensive towards Lord Shiva.
Whats funny is OMG was more harsh and critic on the hindu religious practices compared to PK. OMG made 80 plus crores and starred Paresh Rawal as the main lead who is a BJP MP. #BoycottStupidity
Saw PK. A quirky, delightful little film. Probably the makers could have added a few more interesting episodes to expose the hypocrisy of earthlings, but I think this is Hirani’s least meandering films. It is crisply edited and stays on course. The second half is a tad bit ordinary after a scintillating first half, but I’ll say the film holds pretty well and this is a fine effort from Hirani. Like Jayshah said, the film has its share of complexities and shades to really make it a top notch film. Finally, what can I say about Aamir’s performance. Pure gold. Reminded me of some of Kamal Haasan’s finest performances.Easily the film of the year and a performance for all seasons.
On 3I earning as much if SRK were the lead, well, I may have said it. sure! I It was a very effective performance from Aamir, but I don’t rule out SRK getting the same BO result. I would not say that about PK. That’s sheer magic from Aamir.
PK is an amazing experience, which needs to be soaked up. It’s such an important movie at this point of time when pharese like Love-Jehad, Ghar Vaapsi are vitiating the atmosphere. It takes gumption even to attempt such an intricate issue, but hats off to Hirani and Aamir combo for delivering it with panache and finesse.
PK does not say anything novel as OMG had already come with the same theme, but what makes it unique is its treatment. Hirani is adept at weaving the story with humorous situations, which is a rare feat as his movis also have messages embedded with them. And this virtue is what makes his movies a must watch and multiple watch. He is a razor sharp mind who knows the pulse of indian audiences that they don’t like preaching, so to make it palatable to the tastes of his base, he mixes a lot of elements to put across his message in very simple manner. And this skill is what makes him succeed in each venture he has taken so far.
There is a lot of criticism regarding the attempt to denigrate Hindu religion and Hindu Gods while leaving other religions with mild attacks. But it is far from the the truth as movie balances and launches scathing criticism on insane rituals performed in every religion sparing none. But the selective prism is a handicap when one lets his emotions and beliefs come in the way of rationality and it is this attitude ” My God and Religion are superior to others and is flawless” which harms the society and maintains the staus quo which is what these THEKEDARS OF RELIGION AND GOD do like. So when anything which questions their supremacy over their powers stings them and make them irrational claims and accusations on the person or body to suppress free thinking. Art is a potent weapon through which a lot of maladies can be healed and cured with out spilling a drop of blood! Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan are one of the rare artists who employ their art to the betterment of the society. Kudos to the combo for making such an enlightenging piece of art.
Spoilers.The first few minutes did not impress me that much. Anushka’s prem kahani could have done with more story and less song. All the witty lines were during the first half and the second half had emotional drama. Second half had more story and some surprises. Aamir was ably supported by Anushka, Boman, Shaurabh Shukla and Sanjay dutt. The film was dragged only because of songs and dances. The last scenes were very good and memorable. Sushant Singh Rajput sparkled. Better than 3 Idiots and Munnabhai series because of the presence of the alien. Some scenes had OMG flavour. I loved the Shiva chase. The shoe’s presence spoke volumes about mindless violence.The church and mosque scenes were hilarious. And so were the different colors for different occasions and for different faiths. Least offensive. Aamir did it once more after Talaash. Versatality.
PK ke credit ki race lag gayee hai. Vinod chopra sahab pachtaa rahain hain ke script aur filming mein unka bohat sara contribution hai jiska credit unko nahi mila raha. Aamir khan bhee shayad acting se barh kar credit lena chahtay hain. Raju Hirani thakay thakay lag rahay hain. Perhaps this movie has drained them physically and emotionally and it has become too big. Race for credit is on.
The box-office success of the movie does not change its failing in terms of ‘what it could have been’ or ‘what it was made out to be’. So Rajen it does not tick every box.
As opposed to every other film that is so successfully realized in Bollywood?! It’s like castigating Scorsese for not making Taxi Driver every time while others are just busy with Rush Hour or something! On that note and since many here brought up that point I revisited OMG. Yes there are certain similarities here but it’s appalling to suggest that OMG is a better film that PK. There’s no comparison. Again OMG is a Disney-like story, perfectly enjoyable, a bit stagy at points (too much takes place in the courtroom..) betraying its theatrical origins. The idea that this is a ‘bold’ film (as Paapaas suggested) or that there’s anything out of the ordinary here beyond it being an engaging film on its subject is completely hyperbole. I thought PK missed some opportunities in the second half but at the level of pure comedy (the kind of satire attempted in each case), and the suggestiveness either way (not that I’m calling PK a very bold film either), as well as the overall accomplishment in each instance there is simply no comparison. And once more I like both films, I’m not calling PK perfect by any means (not that I’ve stayed with it for a few days I’d also say that I like it more than 3I though I’m not necessarily saying that as a critical matter) but it’s absurd to compare the two barring in the most elementary ways. Hirani on less than a perfect day is still a superb talent and Aamir has come up with arguably his career best performance.
All of this is not directed against you by any means. Just making a larger point. One must retain some sense of proportion. I’m not saying one cannot dislike PK but to call it an ‘average’ film or whatever is simply ridiculous. It is still one of the best commercial films over the last number of years. But again one can’t say that the best directors must always deliver the best films by their standards otherwise they’re only ‘average’. Meanwhile others are free to remain at the level of YJHD or Houseful! If Hirani or Aamir made a poor film I’d have no problems saying so (despite my admiration for much of RDB I was never comfortable with some of its narrative/political choices and I said it even at the time) but PK whatever questions one might have about it (and I have a few.. still think the first Munnabhai is Hirani’s best but the other three were more successfully realized relative to their potential than this one..) it is still a very good piece of cinema and specially given Bollywood’s contexts one would have to say that very few commercial movies are overall better than this one.
It’s true that the box office cannot be the ultimate arbiter in these matters. But then some here have been making absurd claims on even that score. About how no one was interested in the film, how it was average and wouldn’t do too much and so forth. Given that there is often a politics practiced by way of the box office it’s only fair that these things are now pointed out. I would have the same opinion on the film whether it made 80 crores or 300 or whatever. Much as I loved Talaash irrespective of the final gross.
To reiterate (as I always do) one is free to like or dislike any film but the OMG lionization is a bit silly beyond a point and the negativity on PK is as well.
And here I’ll add something on D3 as well. Even some Aamir fans are fond of castigating this film. I certain accept that it might be an uneasy blend of two genres and more problematic in this sense than the first two. Nonetheless it’s also for the same reason the most interesting of the three. Whatever problems one might have with it to call it an outright bad film or something if one has already enjoyed the first two (not to mention stuff like Race or whatever) is also something that makes absolutely no sense to me. Expectations not being fulfilled can only go so far as an explanation. One can’t go crazy just because one is disappointment (assuming this to be sincere in the first place)!
Satyam, loved your comment. Many valid points. I personally, have never fully dismissed Dhoom 3. Like you so aptly put it , Dhoom 3 was most likely ‘an uneasy blend of two genres and more problematic in this sense than the first two’.
My friend and old schoolmate who was a part of our four member PK outing, as with a few films occasionally, said that PK was good enough but shallower compared to OMG. I have told her that I need to check out OMG before I can accept her shallower charge against PK. IMO, PK suffered some credibility due to a wobbly climax, but otherwise it stands well enough on its own. It’s a film one could revisit with pleasure. Some of the lines need to be heard again. I noted that Saurabh Shukla was presented as a white robed rotund prosperous baba, not a typical sleazy godman of popular perception. I saw a pic from OMG and find that Mithun’s character seems an effimenate pinky finger waving caricature.Need to watch OMG, before making any comparison.
But PK could have been even better than it’s final form, but it is still better than many a typical Bolly film.I especially loved the epilogue and the dialogue from Aamir , the four points about being a human… am still laughing about it, a day plus after viewing PK.
For God’s sake (pun intended!) someone tries to sue god in OMG! How ‘deep’ is that?! Krishna appears as Akshay Kumar to lend a helping hand. Otherwise you have a preachy message at very many points exposing various hypocrisies connected with belief and religious practice. There’s nothing more going on here. It’s a classic Disney format. I have nothing against the film at all. It’s just that the way people are presenting it one has to rub one’s eyes in disbelief! And the amusing thing is you argue for a Ratnam film where a director is manifestly thinking of a lot of things and the same folks will accuse you of ‘over-reading’ things! Admittedly there is some overlap on the themes but so what? The films are still very different. But secondly it’s not as if every other beaten-to-death subject is ok to do one more time but somehow OMG means no one can touch something similar! And in any case this is not even a sincere argument when 3I tackled a campus comedy for the umpteenth time. Munnabhai has the lovable gangster, hardly for the first time in Hindi cinema. All of these claims just aren’t sincere (in most cases). It’s like the Salman fan being ‘disappointed’ with the quality of PK. yeah right!
“God appears as man” a blind faith and belief to counter other beliefs is far stretched as well as illogical- central theme of OMG can’t and must not be compared with factual and logical theme of PK -“Don’t know anything about gods and whatever is known is man made gods and extension of it.
Why are you agitated Satyam. The roaring BO has silenced all but the minute number of vestigial excuse-mongers, who are barely clutching straws at this point. If the “copy of OMG” argument did not work, it became the “anti-Hindu” argument, then it became the “weak second half” argument, etc etc. The massive acceptance of PK has blown away all excuses.
PK is the most bitter of all the tough pills that Aamir Khan has made his detractors swallow over the last decade. Basically, the weakest Hirani script has been uplifted solely by Mr Khan’s brilliant performance. Now that these manufactured excuses have not been able to derail the movie, and now that the success has been confirmed, his detractors are frantically searching for every possible excuse to add to the string of excuses that we were made to hear about Aamir’s past success eg: D3 is a franchise, 3I is Hirani’s baby, Ghajini was due to massive promotions, TZP was stolen from Amol Gupte, etc etc.
But again I’ll say that I don’t have a problem with anyone who doesn’t like the film. I don’t think the debate should ever be foreclosed on anything. But yes some of the statements made by people are highly suspect. This doesn’t mean that there isn’t a space for genuine debate.
Similarly on the box office while Aamir’s singular status has once again been confirmed and it certainly belies the ‘expectations’ many had from the film it is also the case that one should be willing to make the same argument for a film irrespective of how it works or doesn’t. Now of course the box office does speak to larger cultural questions. One can use this to try and understand why one film worked or anything didn’t or whatever. But this is different from judging the film purely on its own. here the box office argument makes me uncomfortable because I don’t think PK is a good film simply because it’s working in such an extraordinary way. I know you’re not suggesting this but at the same time the box office tends to overwhelmingly shape the narrative in these matters.
Will agree though that many might have thought they had Aamir cornered here. They certainly wouldn’t have expected a better than D3 performance which now seems quite likely!
I think PK suffered from short length and I am glad someone said the same thing (i guess it is sandy) – it needed more sequences in the 2nd half to make a deeper mark. But as it is – it is a wonderful film and aamir-haters have got no choice except to come out with the most bizarre criticism 🙂
Gox: “:The box-office success of the movie does not change its failing in terms of ‘what it could have been’ or ‘what it was made out to be’. So Rajen it does not tick every box.” Only the box office success? Have you forgotten the 8.9 rating on imdb from more than 15000 users? Do you know how many Hindi films have got that kind of rating. Let me think. Zero? Have you also forgotten that It has the best critics rating average for the year at least? Sure it could have been better. Thank god for that. Hirani at least has something to aspire to!
Utkal: I think majority of them are clearly mentioning this is weakest Hirani film in terms of screenplay and well defined characters. Almost 90% of reviews mention the slump in 2nd half, its not perfect ride.That is another matter that his very good film is head and shoulder above other Bollywood films.
Also, imdb is still not standard for Hindi movies. Not many of them really give their rating on imdb. Its completely dominated by Fan clubs. Don’t think half of Salman’s audience ever heard of a site named imdb.
For me,
LRM > MBBS > 3I > PK.
Infact, one family asked me for HNY recommendation, I said.. if you haven’t seen, there’s nothing to go now. Its only for people who ‘want’ to see it. Same family asked me for PK, I said, if you don’t mind the humor about religion, you should watch it for sure. Its defnitely worth it.
Talking of at what level PK is being appreciated :
“In a season of Oscar-bait one of the most daring films of the year can be found in that perhaps sole multiplex in your region that frequently dedicates a screen to Bollywood films. PK, directed and co-written by Rajkumar Hirani (3 Idiots), is a bold exploration of religion wrapped in a sci-fi drama with several moments of broad comedy thrown in to lighten the mood — after all, it is Bollywood. The blend works nicely, especially as an almost atheist text. (Although one can argue it reverts back to the notion of a personal creator out there in the universe, it’s not quite a cop-out so much as it is the pretext made clear by the film’s opening sequence.) Along the way, the film’s only moment of playing it safe is a disclaimer announcing the feature as a work of fiction; perhaps Sony should make such a disclaimer at the start of The Interview, if it ever sees a release.
PK exists well within a tradition of Bollywood pictures about identity. Often they explore the Indian identity abroad (ranging from a masterpiece like Swades to the recent silly Canadian comedy Dr. Cabbie), and this film’s ambition is to explore human identity as PK goes in search for “his God,” taking on a religion leader aiming to expand into a mega-church. As gentle as its title character, with his bulging eyes and grin, the film is genuinely interested in good-natured discovery (and processing foreign transactions he cannot understand, like basic commerce in a funny sequence), while veering slowly into truly subversive territory along the way. An impossible creation for Hollywood to fathom and release in the United States, PK is a useful exploration and send-up of the mega institutions, in favor of a closer, personal relationship with the abstract concept of God, the creator. Perhaps for its planned sequel PK will land in the United States and challenge Joel Osteen.
Well-crafted and mostly entertaining, PK is much more than the story of a man who fell to Earth, yet it lacks the engagement, perhaps by design, of Hirani’s wonderful 3 Idiots. The character of PK, although filled with wonderment is too cold; while he “uploads” language files from another human, he never quite becomes socialized, creating some challenges in the likability department. He can be charming in his own ways, but the arc here is a little more intellectually driven than character driven. A rare Bollywood beast, I commend Hirani for a film that has been released on a week when Hollywood has stood clear of controversy. Like 3 Idiots (a sweeping epic that took on various issues within higher education in India and social equality), PK is both pleasing and fascinating as an issues film, making for one of the most interesting pictures in a month of Hollywood prestige, a film worth seeking out, especially for the uninitiated.
Master : “Also, imdb is still not standard for Hindi movies. Not many of them really give their rating on imdb. Its completely dominated by Fan clubs. Don’t think half of Salman’s audience ever heard of a site named imdb.” Then how come, D3 has a rating of 5.6, Bang Bang a rating of 5.6, Ra One, a rating of 4.9? What happened to the fans of Aamir, Hritik and Shahrukh. And what if most critics say that the second half hasa slump? Is anyone saying that the film is perfect? No critic had anything negative to say about 3 Idiots? ( For your information Raja Sen gave it a rating of 2). All I ma saying is that it has been liked by EVERY SINGLE critic and has highest average rating of the year followed by Haider and Queen. No more. No less.
Master, for your information, on imdb, Munnabhai MBBS is rated 8.5, Lage raho Munnabhai 8.3., 3 Idiots: 8.5 and PK : 8.9 ( It will come down to about 8.5 or 8.6 eventually) . So how does your fan club theory explain this ? The Sanjay Dutt fan club is as big as the Aamir Fan Club? Which is biger than Salman Fan Club – because none of Salman’s films have got rating over 8 except Andaz Apna Apna?
5th Day Tuesday Box Office Collection Of PK
Wednesday 24 December 10:19
Film collected 17.60 cr nett on Tuesday which was a super result. Film has total of 134.03 cr nett in 5 days and next two days will be big due to effect of Christmas holidays. That should take film at least clsoe to 175 cr nett which will be huge.
thanks…this was a good read. some great points i really agreed with…
“PK reminds us to use fresh eyes and a new perspective and tells us that “the way it is” can be so much better if we are willing to fix it. It reminds us that questioning ourselves and the deeply-rooted preconceptions around us is not just timely but necessary.”
“The film conveys that religion is about a personal relationship to god and making one a better person but when people use it to push an agenda or oppress others, they are doing a disservice to religion or as PK would say, “you have the wrong number”.”
also OMG keeps creeping up in every review…and I haven’t watched it…so this weekend will be watching OMG!
I felt the same way when I watched Interstellar earlier this year. Even though the movie was not perfect…it entertained the hell outta me and raised some very interesting points. These kinds of movies make you think…make you ponder..and I love that stuff.
yes Interstellar isn’t a bad analogy. I loved the film and yet there was some ‘messiness’ in it. Gravity was perfect but barring obviously the SFX the narrative was rather too basic. Overall I preferred Interstellar though. The overall emotional tug here worked for me.
it’s a shame Interstellar will be under appreciated in the long run. Think some expected it to be the ‘answer’ to everything…Nolan isn’t Ms. Cleo!! lol.
PK Crosses 150 Crore In Six Days
Thursday 25 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK showed a little growth on Wednesday as evening collections in multiplexes jumped due to a national holiday on the next day. The approx six day business of PK is as follows.
The film has now crossed 150 crore nett in India and the six day business is very similar to Kick but still has one more day left in the week and that too a big national holiday.
Kick was at 141 crores at this point (also according to BOI). And it opened at 26 crores (also according to them)… so by BOI Kick had:
Fri — 26
Sat — 26
Sun — 30
Mon — 13 or 14
Tue — 26 (Eid day)
Wed — 20
So the PK trending is vastly superior. It showed a jump Sat, a huge one Sun. Also Kick fell quite a bit on Mon. PK of course had a big one. It’s basically doing 20 every single day. One can expect much bigger numbers tomorrow. By the end of the week PK will be 20-25 crores ahead of Kick. I don’t see how BOI can say it’s similar to Kick. It’s going to be 12-15% ahead by the time the week is done.
Everyone who has seen PK has seen it now. It will start to drop massively as the capacity has been reached and glass ceiling is close. 70-80% drops are fair game now and perfectl fine…it’s what every Tom dock and Harry film has done since 3 idiots anyway.
Nykavi is inventing his ‘connnect’ theory now. A posh word for trending. Or audience likeness. Nykavi – make sure you patent it. And don’t believe for a second you will find support in your theory. But don’t worry I am on your side. The side of cinema that connects and lasts a lot longer than a bubble gum.
they are going for 34cr estimate on Thursday which would be remarkable to tell the truth and a 190cr first week total. Also the timing of the release of PK could not have been more perfect.
PK made you think? Good for you. As Gox put it well, those who are sorted in mind about all the superstitions , there is no learning from PK. I totally agree, this movie needs to be made especially for the masses and people in India who are still attached to old superstitions without reason but it didn’t make me think or open my eyes and gave me anything to think about.
my point is that this isn’t a mindless comedy or an mindless entertainer…has a lot of substance to it even with the flaws that it clearly has. No it didn’t “open my eyes” but still made me dwell on some thoughts that already existed in my mind.
I don’t like this attitude either. Just coz 1 movie comes with a social message, suddenly all starting attacking regular commercial movies which are 99.9% in Bollywood which is totally unfair. Just being different doesn’t win brownie points from me. Even a different film can have flaws, even a regular commercial film can be great. In spite flaws, PK has lot going for it,I know more and more are loving the movie for the humor and not sure how much the message is getting across.
hate to break it to you…but PK is as commercial as they come. But hirani proves that you don’t have to totally take your brain out while still making a commercial movie. The guy doesn’t treat the audience like they are total idiots. This has always been the beauty of RKH…and though this was his weakest directed film…for me it was his second most entertaining film after LRM.
People need a movie to make them think? They are going in with the notion that whether the movie will make them think or not. Meine Aamir khan aur Rajkumar Hirani ki movie dekhi uss mein message tha. Somehow the audience is made to believe they have achieved something by seeing a movie with the message. The story the plot the movie is not as such a learning experience. Who goes in to see sociology 101 twisted in the form of a movie in a theater? It is the marketing or the brand aamir which has confused itself to be much more than a mere entertainer. A Pyaasa wouldn’t be a pyaasa if it hadn’t the seamless story telling. A pyaasa wasn’t meant to drive a social message home. It was to tell a story.
When there is no story to tell to begin with then you cannot call it a good or bad execution to begin with. A number of disjointed events put together to make a point does not constitute a story. Biggest failing of PK is that there were never a story to tell. The personal angst of the writers put out in the form of a comedy isn’t great storytelling. And the focus seems to be on the scenes and parts rather than the whole. Yeh scene funny hona chahiye, yeh drama aur yeah next wala emotional. Hansana hai, rulana hai, jazbaati karna hai. If this is not a formula what is a formula? LCD rule of Hirani and Joshi and so on makes a mockery of storytellling.
Off course, everyone is familiar with Sociology 101. But how many “entertaining” films have been made on the subject? How many have displayed the earnestness required by the lead actor? How many have raised sensitive issues in a very benign, non-aggressive format, wrapped up in comedy? PK is not some “come to Jesus” moment experienced by the audience. It is satire highlighting what is wrong in the system. If people are enjoying it, and deriving all sorts of metaphorical meanings, it means the movie really succeeded.
As I mentioned earlier, the “connect” is what is required for the audience to think that they actually derived something from the 2.5 hrs experience. Personally, the “bhagwan kahan hai tu” picturisation and performance was the best part of the movie. It encapsulates the despondency felt by almost everyone at some point in their lives, and the song was hugely elevated by Aamir’s act. The movie is packed with many such “connect” moments.
That “connect” is severely lacking in bwood of today, especially when it comes to the big stars and their extravaganzas. The movies with any “connect” have generally tended to be those that have small budgets with smaller stars. The Khans have had a connect with the audience for the longest running time of any superstars (even more than BigB). It ensures their movies to gross 100crs at the least. After that it entirely depends on the strength of ‘connect’, the earnestness/quality of performance which propels their offerings forward. Measures in that parameter, Aamir has been far ahead of the other two.
By comparing Pyaasa with PK, you are comparing apples to oranges. Both good fruits, but diff after-tastes. You are needlessly trying to weed out flaws, that really only exist in your mind. Why were similar exercises not done with the release of ETT or HNY etc? Is it because you knew they were crap to begin with, and all you could “derive” is the pleasure of watching a fav superstar hamming familiarly in a big extravaganza?
Now you have another actor actually performing, taking the pains to learn a language, mannerisms, whackiness etc. so as to actually enhance the viewing experience of the audience. And you label it as fraud! For having tried the same thing, Shahid Kapur walked away with accolades in Haider, a totally one-sided movie. But poor Aamir has to face brickbats for starring in a neutral entertaining message-driven enterprise.
300 crores is definitely on for PK. The movie has been really liked and it is a great achievement for every one concerned. Hirani has once again proved he is the very best today and Aamir of course has given his best performance for some time in this. In all probability this will end around 325 crores.
well it is half way there…it would be quite an achievement for all parties involved. The only thing that would break the momentum are things like these…
Complaints lodged against Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ in Hyderabad
Satyam, Did u watch PK. Have been coming to this site very infrequently as I am still settling in AUS so might have missed it. Pass me the link on your thoughts. I plan to see it here in Melbourne this week.
I never thought I will be writing this. I may receive brickbats.
I enjoyed Dhoom 3 more than PK. and Talaash more than Dhoom 3.
I think Hirani is overrated. Sanjay Dutt and Aamir Khan are saving Hirani by their charm and acting. By the way, Raj Kapoor could have played that alien with his innocent looks. Maybe thats the reason Hirani took Ranbir but Ranbir can never have that innocent charm of Raj Kapoor.
PK First Week Daily Collections
Friday 26 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK grossed over 180 crore nett in week one as the business on Thursday was better than day one due to holiday for Christmas. Below are the daily figures for the first week.
Great trending till now. If the movie continues on this scale, we should see new 2nd weekend & 2nd week records being made.
In which case this will be a serious contendor for the first 300 cr movie.
This also goes on to prove that good movies with a sealable star will always have the audience’s approval. Other top stars need to take notice, and stop dishing out mediocre movies.
Incredible numbers. Not surprisingly there isn’t any hysteria about the collections from all the usual sources from Nahta to BOI. The former didn’t even put up a tweet after day 1. BOI meanwhile have this ‘yeah it’s doing very well tone’! Meanwhile when it’s about some other stars they give hourly reports from Bihar or talk about 17th biggest openings and what not! This after saying expectations were huge because of 3I. LOL, they didn’t expect this!
I ran into a friend yesterday who still has not seen PK. He said that he has not seen/heard any news items about its BO, and was surprised when I mentioned that it had already crossed 150cr. So he questioned why the usual news sources (I did not bother to ask which ones he referred to) had not highlighted these numbers. Apparently people were overwhelmed by HNY’s announcements of having crossed 50, 100, 150 etc. And when the domestic got stuck at 170, they would tomtom their worldwide to cross 200, 250, etc. But no one shouting from rooftops about PK yet!
Interstellar’s box office total is $622,932,412 and counting. It is the eighth-highest-grossing film of the year and spawned an endless raft of think pieces testing the validity of its science and applauding the innovation of its philosophy. But it is not so new. The idea which propels the plot – there is a universal super-consciousness that transcends time and space in which all human life is connected – has been around for about 3,000 years. It is Vedic.
When the film’s astronaut hero (Matthew McConaughey), declares that the mysterious and all-knowing “they” who created a wormhole near Saturn through which he travels to save mankind – dissolving his sense of material reality in the process – are in fact “us” he is simply repeating the central notion of the Upanishads, India’s oldest philosophical texts. These hold that individual human minds are merely brief reflections within a cosmic one.
@ Sanjana Has anyone hacked your account ? Satyam and his ilk will not forgive you for this blashphemy. Ask Utkal sir who has casigated because he liked Cocktail.
Superb Review by Great Bong ! Maza aa gaya-
First the climax was so god-awful that it made the baby-delivered-by-vacuum-cleaner in Three Idiots seem kind of okay.
Cycling through various expressions, “the-oh-my-God-I-had-no-idea” (“Apko police ne yeh kaha?”) as if he is hearing the guest’s story for the first time, “the-oh-my-God-I-so-feel-for-you” eyes-welling-up-with-tasteful-tears, Mr. Khan straddles perfectly that grey area between reality and choreography, between the person and the persona, and if the topic of the week does not keep you watching, or that sharp prick on your conscience if your finger goes to the remote control to change the channel, Aamir Khan’s performance sure does.
Hirani’s consciousness of “those who must not be angered” is perhaps most evident when PK, the alien, puts up signs of different Hindu Gods on a wall and, if I am not totally wrong there was also a picture of Jesus, but even PK knows, from news that might have reached him billions of light years away, that forget pictures there are some depictions of deities you do not put on walls, if you want to keep your head on your shoulders http://greatbong.net/2014/12/25/pk-the-review/
Saw movie yesterday night with family.. everyone enjoyed.. Aamir acted very well.. never actually felt he was acting it was as if coming naturally to him.. also the 2nd half is not that bad as people are saying it to be.. it’s shorter than first half.. And Ranbir small cameo in the end didn’t make any good impression. he was not able to act as the character should be like Aamir.. overall nice time pass movie.. will not mind if i end up seeing it again…
PK Sets All Time First Week Record
Friday 26 December 2014 09.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
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PK has set an all time record with collections of 180 crore nett plus in the first week. The film has not set first week records in all circuits but it has managed to gross 6-7 crore nett more in Mumbai circuit than Dhoom 3 and that is the main difference.
PK also ha a good lead over Dhoom 3 in West Bengal, Nizam / Andhra and Mysore but in Delhi/UP, Rajasthan, CP Berar, Tamil Nadu / Kerala, Assam and Orissa it is lower than Dhoom 3. The collections of PK and Dhoom 3 were similar in East Punjab while in CI, PK was a bit better.
The film has gone into week two with rock steady collections and no competition and it is the the 8th day figure which will give an idea to where the film can finally land up.
And here are Jogi/Nahta trying to pad CE/HNY numbers, so predictable:
“With the kind of response that PK is gaining, it is now a given that this social-satirical affair would result as the biggest success of 2014, hence surpassing Salman Khan’s Kick [233 crore] and Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year [203 crore]. Meanwhile, it would also go past the Chennai Express [227 crore].
The next big target though is Dhoom 3 which had managed 284 crore. ”
SATYAMSHOT
December 19, 2014 at 5:46 AM
PK Has Huge Opening At Multiplexes
Friday 19 December 2014 11.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has had a huge opening at multiplexes recording morning occupancies of around 70%. The big cities are excellent and cities like Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore may put up record first day figures. The opening is less in some places like UP and Gujarat but the film has the highest ATP (average ticket prices) and the highest capacity ever even though the screen count is not the highest ever.
This should mean that the film should compensate for the weaker areas by huge huge business in multiplexes of big cities. Also the places like UP and Gujarat are not bad but just not as huge as metros. There block bookings from corporates for shows after 3pm also which means the afternoon and evening shows in metros will show even better occupancies.
The expectations are huge not just from an opening point of view but in the long run as the team as 3 Idiots behind them and it will be the weekdays which will decide if these expectations are met. The success of the film is not really an issue as this sort of initial almost ensures that.
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December 19, 2014 at 12:56 PM
This bad remake of Oh My God will fall down from Saturday. FLOP.
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December 19, 2014 at 1:38 PM
Naveen, you don’t have to repeat the same comment ten times..
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December 19, 2014 at 5:47 AM
TonyMontana:
Watched PK FDFS. Here’s my mini take on it:
Whenever it came to watching a Hirani film, there hadn’t been an instance when I wasn’t bowled over by his movies on their first watch. All through MBBS, LRM and 3I I found myself laughing my heart out and emoting with the characters. PK, though a fine film on its own, does fall a little short of expectations. Not much surprises in store here, though it is an engrossing “fable.”
The problem lies in what it wants to be. There are some LOL moments, but all the chasing PK scenes become tiring and mundane after a while. Aamir does act his part well; here he is better than in some of his previous outings, but apart from him and Saurabh Shukla, there isn’t one character that either stays with you or which moves beyond the stereotype. Boman, who has always been given pretty meaty parts in all of Hirani films, is used here just as a filler.
Also, this one seems to carry a big Oh My God hangover. I’m positive I would’ve enjoyed this film a lot more if the other film hadn’t preceded it. Can’t blame Hirani though, because I believe the script idea was put in place before OMG released.
However, the blemishes apart, it is welcome change from the nonsense in the name of entertainment that has been put on platter for cinema consumers week upon week this year. Aamir and Hirani have probably pulled off another cinematic success, but I’m doubtful whether I will place it at par with the other three classics, which are a tall order to catch up to even for Hirani. After the first watch, I’m a bit skeptical of it. Maybe I’ll watch it again or let it sink in. But revisiting it might take some time.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:47 AM
Master:
*Light Spoilers*
Just back from PK. Wow, biggest disappointment of the year for me. Its not bad film but its pretty pointless film. Even OMG was more entertaining than this one. You make a spoof about godmen but then you don’t add anything substantial, then it becomes pointless. 2nd half is flat and completely deceives the viewer by building the climax about the debate and takes a U-turn by turning into sobbing love story.
Hirani’s weakest film till date, which maybe better than majority of films this year but comparatively with the expectations, I never got so disappointed with a film. Aamir is alright but songs and editing(done by Raju himself) are bad. Boman is wasted. The whole India-Pakistan angle to win more audience overseas doesn’t work at all IMO.
Had high expectations and booked 8 tickets for FDFS and none of them liked it, most of them liked it as 1 time watch. I didn’t learn anything new about religion concept, neither there was any entertainment.
Now, I believe about reports that Raju Hirani was tensed after OMG release as the story line is pretty much similar concept but dealt very superficial here. Not a single scene or moment screams classic. I don’t see any repeat value here.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:48 AM
Raj5:
Accidentally read the first line of your review and realized that I cannot be on any bollywood related site until after I watch PK or else I’ll read too many reviews and spoilers lol
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December 19, 2014 at 11:38 AM
FLOP
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December 19, 2014 at 5:52 AM
BO update: Aamir Khan starrer PK opens on a high note
By Bollywood Hungama News Network, December 19, 2014 – 14:00 IST
For the past few weeks, the industry has seen a lull in box office collections coming in from new releases. In fact the audiences have been holding their breath in an anxious wait for the Christmas holiday release of Aamir Khan’s PK.
As expected, the Perfectionist Khan’s film has opened on a high note with reports from across the country suggesting a 60-70% occupancy rate across morning shows, which is extremely good considering the fact that today is a working day. Looking at the reports coupled with the long running promotions, Aamir’s one film a year concept, audience’s anxiety for the actor’s film release, the strong combo of Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan, and the massive advance bookings that started on Monday, PK will set new box office records.
Apart from this, the three week long run, in addition to the massive screen count with little to no competition, PK is expected to do brisk business at the box office. Besides with good reviews, positive feedback from the audience and good word of mouth footfalls are expected to increase from evening show onwards.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:49 AM
Why is Aamir the only one repeatedly cited for “one film per year”? Barring Salman, hardly any of the major stars (SRK; Hrithik) do MORE than this (Hrithik might even do fewer).
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December 19, 2014 at 8:37 AM
Agree Salman has been doing two movies a year on an average plus Big Boss for 4 months in a year plus does numerous stage shows. SRK is more inclined towards his business and being a project manager for a movie than being an actor , though he has taken few corrective measures to mend some of it and has content based movies coming up. If he takes acting seriously there is no beating him in talent and I feel he is the one going to give the younger lot a run for their money because of his diverse image, the day he starts doing content based stuff. I don’t know about Fan since it’s coming from yrf but Raees can reinstate his positioning if the director can rein in the actor in him.
If PK is in anyway an extension of OMG, it should serve as warning to many not to procrastinate on a project unless you are doing a historical like Mangal Pandey.
At the end each actor has his own strength and nothing can be more true than –
Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahaan nahi milta
Kahin zami to kahin aasmaa nahi milta
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December 19, 2014 at 9:22 AM
“If he takes acting seriously”
because he’s serious he doesn’t try to take acting seriously! It’s one thing to be a fan and quite another to consider Salman a supremely talented actor!
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December 19, 2014 at 11:58 AM
Btw, I was talking about SRK there…..who I feel is going to get serious with his project choices and may have a fruitful 2nd innings and that is where all these indie directors will have a face to sell their dreams on big scale.
On salman simply convincing as the character you play eludes 70% of bollywood crowd so in that respect Salman is more than apt. Indian filmmaking is more than just looking serious at the camera and acting broody and there is a bit of absurdity required and he fits the bill like the other superstars have in the past.
There is enough of the actor in him to give Garv, Love, Patthar Ke Phool, Andaz Apna, Veergati ….
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December 19, 2014 at 6:09 AM
Quite clearly Aamir is getting worse with his choices. Has lost his instincts and too much thinking has complicated matters. Same goes for Hirani. Too much thinking and too much pressure to create a masterpiece. IN any case it is too difficult to recreate good cinema over and over again.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:16 AM
http://movies.ndtv.com/movie-reviews/pk-movie-review-1068
Anushka Sharma, playing a feisty poetry-loving girl who knows her mind far more than most Hindi film heroines are allowed to, holds her own against Aamir Khan.
Aamir revels in the character of the wide-eyed, fearless rebel who dares to challenge the societal and religious structures that encourage bigotry and distrust.
Sushant Singh Rajput has only a cameo in PK but in the handful of scenes that he is in – including one in the run-up to the climax that ratchets up emotions and vigorously pulls the heartstrings – he gives a great account of himself.
Do watch out for Ranbir Kapoor – a little icing on a cake so appetizing that it will have you clamouring for more.
PK is a winner all the way, a film that Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt would have been proud of had they been alive. Rajkumar Hirani is without a doubt their most worthy standard-bearer.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:20 AM
But even if you were bothered by all the film’s gaffes, there’s an interesting cameo towards the end to make sure you leave the theatre with a smile on your face. PK might not be the repeat value juggernaut like 3 Idiots, but it does have better content, execution and a more socially relevant topic. Props to Hirani and team for saving one of the most enjoyable movies of the year for the last.
http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/pk-review-peppy-anushka-alien-aamir-in-a-funny-yet-flawed-satire-1857433.html
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December 19, 2014 at 6:24 AM
The robustness of the dialogue (it has a word which made me gasp and laugh out loud, but I’m not telling which) and the sting in the situations way to exposition. From this point on, ‘PK‘ becomes a message-y let-us-expose-those-who-give-religion-a-bad-name, just like the magnificent ‘Munnabhai’ took the pants off bad medical practice, its sequel docked legal sharks, and ‘3 Idiots’ taught a lesson to misguided educators. – See more at: http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/pk-review-aamir-khan/#sthash.RYVkNPXU.dpuf
What keeps `PK’ afloat is Aamir. He holds on to the uniqueness of the lead character and helps us ignore the contrivances, right from when he appears with a tatty tape recorder as sole raiment, ears sticking out, and an expression which requires him to widen his eyes, and keep them wide open.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:33 AM
http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-pk-is-a-mixed-bag-of-spunk-and-sentimentality/20141219.htm
In PK, he tackles the widespread evils of religion-dictated farce in this country, the bizarre rituals it entails whilst acknowledging the distinction of a divine presence from idol worship.
The Paresh Rawal-starrer OMG-Oh My God, a satire I quite relished — in fact a tad more than PK — raised similar concerns through hard-hitting rationality and an element of mythological fantasy.
Part comedy, part drama, PK opts to share its genre specification with science fiction.
To get across his point, Hirani appoints Aamir Khan to play PK, a freakier, flashier version of 3 Idiots’ Rancho.
The actor, given his newfound comfort in the socially aware, is on the same wavelength as his director resulting in a performance that is flamboyant enough to make a splash.
One sees a lot more of him than is accustomed to in PK. While it’s not pin-up material, it’s refreshing to see a mainstream star in such an uninhibited space.
During the course of his quest to return home, filled with madcap discoveries regarding God, fashion, music, language (watch out for one hilarious achha scene), social etiquette and self-defence (who knew Hanuman stickers could come in so handy?), PK bumps into a pixie-hair television journalist Jaggu Sahni with daddy issues (Anushka Sharma) and they join forces to blow off the whistle on a flimflam Godman (Saurabh Shukla is a hoot).
Before arriving to the story’s simplistic and lacklustre conclusion that points out to Hirani’s chronic weakness — too much sentimentality — PK moves at a buoyant pace.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:48 AM
Based on the reviews PK seems to be treading very similar ground as OMG…
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December 19, 2014 at 6:51 AM
Sadly I will have to wait until the second weekend to catch this 😦
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December 19, 2014 at 9:36 AM
Qalandar: I doubt there would be any review of PK which doesn’t mention Oh My God movie. There is too much concept similarity to not mention it.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:43 AM
The songs wonderfully embrace the moments. “Chaar Kadam” is the pick of the lot while “Bhagwan hain kaha tu” slips comfortably into momentum and “Love is a waste of time” adds to the zing. The cinematography, especially the Rajasthan parts are eye pleasing. The editing is sharp whereas the writing is coherent. The direction of the film is unquestionably good. Hirani understands where and when the film should go which way and that is exactly why we never see any abrupt cuts in the character sketch.
Aamir Khan infuses life in the film as well as his character. He has challenged his previous performance and he has come out with spectacular performance. Uninhibited, unabashed and a raw acting. Take a bow, Khan! Anushka Sharma nicely complements and her friendly attitude only helps. Rest everyone in the film takes their part seriously and they leave a mark!
At the end, one comes out watching “PK” with smile on face and thought in mind. The film has enormous laughter-spreading moments and engaging drama that will hook. It is the best of 2014 and the trust in this combo of Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan is reaffirmed and strengthened. Bravo!
http://tanqeed.com/sankets-review-pk-bowls-you-over/
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December 19, 2014 at 7:23 AM
“Aamir Khan is exceptional in PK, creating an irresistibly goofy character and playing him with absolute conviction. He laughs at his goblin-ears and walks around with his eyes on high-beam throughout the film, but his transformation isn’t restricted to the physical — though I must single out and applaud the skittish way he runs, his arms straight by his side with his palms stuck out, reminiscent of Steve Carrell in Little Miss Sunshine when his character was running toward automatic doors, willing them to open fast. That, there, is the impressive thing about Khan in this film, taking a few one-shot gags and stretching them feature-length so strongly and gamely that he wins us over with sheer heart.”
http://rajasen.com/2014/12/19/review-pk/
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December 19, 2014 at 11:39 AM
Dada… Had been telling that OMG remake is very tough to make.
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December 19, 2014 at 7:25 AM
PK is, after all, a Rajkumar Hirani film, and nothing that it delivers hinges on devices that have done to death. It springs surprises at every turn, not the least among of which is a very special appearance by Ranbir Kapoor.
This is an absolutely unmissable mass entertainer, if ever there has been one. It is unlikely that you will ever be more entertained and more enlightened – both at the same time – by a Bollywood film.
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/448591/movie-review-pk-fearless-critique.html
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December 19, 2014 at 7:26 AM
Known to shoot funny situations in the realistic fashion, here in Aamir Khan he has the actor who makes us believe in the outlandish nature of PK. He makes you forget the oddities like green bug eyes, big ears or nudity for that matter with a performance that is endearing and probing at the same time. He plays an important role in making us believe in some of the bizarre aspects of the story.
Anushka Sharma comes across as a waft of fresh air, as somebody who seems in control of her life but behind her tough exterior there is a soft core.
Her short crop gives her face a new dimension and her chemistry with Aamir ensures that the surface of the narrative gels with its core. Saurabh Shukla and Boman Irani are efficient as ever and Sushant Singh Rajput doesn’t disappoint in a cameo. Shantanu Moitra’s music may not stand out but doesn’t come in the way of storytelling except for the Rajasthani number that is there to justify the presence of Dutt in the film.
http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/movie-review-of-pk/article6708059.ece?homepage=true&theme=true
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December 19, 2014 at 7:27 AM
Shekhar Kapur @shekharkapur 3m3 minutes ago
Finally a Hindi film where people r talking about quality of film rather than box office numbers. Thank you @aamir_khan @RajkumarHirani #pk
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December 19, 2014 at 11:40 AM
So this means movie is a FLOP
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December 19, 2014 at 9:18 PM
Wtf is wrong with you?!
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December 19, 2014 at 7:28 AM
The screenplay is linear and full of ‘talkative’ scenes. The story is perfectly paced at least in the first half. The latter part of the second half is extremely dramatic with crying characters live on air and immediate change of hearts but that’s more like giving the story a logical conclusion. Yes, it appears ‘over the top’ but not for more than five minutes, and that are the only dull moments. In PK’s language ‘lull hai’.
It’s Aamir Khan’s show all the way. It’s amusing to see him make an otherwise ‘absurd concept on paper’ plausible. He is the master of disguise and it’s good to see such a ‘projectionist’ on top of his game. PK will always remain among the most cherished characters in his kitty.
Anushka Sharma is radiant and she is growing in stature. She seems confident and holds her fort in front of Aamir. By the way, her lips didn’t look any different to me, don’t know about you. Saurabh Shukla is the spine of the drama and as expected he doesn’t disappoint.
PK is a fun film with proper dose of ‘gyaan’. It’s a film that shouldn’t be missed and it’s brave because it attempts to create a better world. Another winner from Rajkumar Hirani. It would be hard to stop it from owning the box-office as well.
And yes, don’t leave the theatre till the credit rolls. There is a surprise for you.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/reviews/pk-review-aamir-steals-the-show-it-s-a-winner/article1-1298241.aspx
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December 19, 2014 at 7:30 AM
Anushka Sharma, playing a feisty poetry-loving girl who knows her mind far more than most Hindi film heroines are allowed to, holds her own against Aamir Khan.
Aamir revels in the character of the wide-eyed, fearless rebel who dares to challenge the societal and religious structures that encourage bigotry and distrust.
Sushant Singh Rajput has only a cameo in PK but in the handful of scenes that he is in – including one in the run-up to the climax that ratchets up emotions and vigorously pulls the heartstrings – he gives a great account of himself.
Do watch out for Ranbir Kapoor – a little icing on a cake so appetizing that it will have you clamouring for more.
PK is a winner all the way, a film that Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt would have been proud of had they been alive. Rajkumar Hirani is without a doubt their most worthy standard-bearer.
http://movies.ndtv.com/movie-reviews/pk-movie-review-1068
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December 19, 2014 at 7:32 AM
The viewers were constantly whistling at Aamir’s funny one-liners and the crispy Bhojpuri dialogues. By the end, there were more thunderous claps and whistles–speaking volumes about the content.
There is a big surprise at the end – a special appearance by Ranbir Kapoor. But in which avatar and how? Watch to find out.
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra in association with Siddharth Roy Kapur, `PK` is sure to surpass the top grossers of 2014.
For Aamir’s exceptional act and the brilliant storyline, it’s a 4.5 stars!
http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/pk-review-perfectionist-aamir-khan-deserves-a-bow_1517300.html
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December 19, 2014 at 8:10 AM
Utkal, instead of posting various review, I would love to read your review. You might enjoy this movie but it would be good to read your review instead of many paid reviews!
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December 19, 2014 at 8:07 AM
Biggest lie Aamir and VVC said by saying no price increase. This is the highest price increase in India for any movie.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:56 AM
Master, if there is no repeat value , the big question is will this be able to cross Kick numbers which stand tall at 233 cr net.
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December 19, 2014 at 9:20 AM
that’s the producer number..
on the rest you’re setting yourself up for some disappointment here..!
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December 19, 2014 at 9:37 AM
I think surrounding the hype, reviews and trust in Hirani and Aamir for quality movie this should sail past 250crrs…but more than that or will it trend like 3 Idiots is yet to be seen (I doubt that it will have repeat value like 3 Idiots though)
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December 19, 2014 at 9:48 AM
After the over excited and paid reviews, slowly normal reviews are coming out…
Rediff Review: PK, a mixed bag of spunk and sentimentality – http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-pk-is-a-mixed-bag-of-spunk-and-sentimentality/20141219.htm
Indian Express PK review: What keeps this movie afloat is Aamir Khan – http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/pk-review-aamir-khan/
Movie Review – PK: A dumbed-down form of Noblesse Oblige! – http://freepressjournal.in/movie-review-pk-a-dumbed-down-form-of-noblesse-oblige/
Mayank Shankar MOVIE REVIEW: PK – Ab PK kya karenge?
http://www.abplive.in/author/mayankshekhar/2014/12/19/article458066.ece/MOVIE-REVIEW-PK—Ab-PK-kya-karenge
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December 19, 2014 at 10:00 AM
Come on…be neutral…so all the positives (around 80% critics) are paid?
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December 19, 2014 at 10:19 AM
Yes, they are paid by their site owners, lol. But yeah.. i feel many over excitement reviews. Either way, I’m not going to bash the movie but I went in FDFS and gave my review. Its everyone’s own perspective of the movie.
There is hardly anything new in this movie, I mean literally nothing is suprising, thought provoking when dealing with this subject. If you can make on this topic and raises questions and then cops out in the end, its cheating the audience. I don’t think there is anyone out there who would really love 2nd half unless your expecations are bare minimum.
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December 19, 2014 at 10:26 AM
But the screenplay weakens post intermission, when the stage is set for a (televised) confrontation between PK and smarmy godman Tapasvee (Saurabh Shukla). Hirani lays it on thick in these portions, and to be fair much of this territory was covered already in the Paresh Rawal starrer Oh My God. Moreover, the entire climax is hinged on a plot contrivance that sticks out in an otherwise compelling film. A hastily pasted-on romantic track between PK and Jaggu feels entirely out-of-place.
http://www.rajeevmasand.com/reviews/our-films/gotta-have-faith/
Just now Masand posted his review.. almost similar thoughts. But if you messes up that portion, then you lose the plot IMO.
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December 19, 2014 at 9:51 AM
I don’t think anyone would compare this with Kick in any which way. But given Kick and HNY are two biggest hit this year(based on any source).. PK will be either No.1 or 2.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:10 AM
i was laughing throughout the first half of the movie. second half has some dull moments but overall a paisa vasool movie for me. this movie put a smile on every face in the end. aamir’s acting is suparb and he just dissolves in pk character.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:44 AM
Have yet to watch this…but here are couple of websites which is somewhat similar to RT for bollywood
http://reviewschview.com/
http://thereviewmonk.com/movie/pk/
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December 19, 2014 at 8:55 AM
First half looks to be stronger than second half
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December 19, 2014 at 9:35 AM
Maddy is back!-
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December 19, 2014 at 10:04 AM
As per Girish Johar now the Day One is poised to be Historic. So far the public has been liking it. Me watching it on Sat night.
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December 19, 2014 at 10:15 AM
Critic’s Rating: Cast: Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sushant Singh Rajput, Saurabh Shukla, Sanjay Dutt, Boman IraniDirection: Rajkumar HiraniGenre: DramaDuration: 2 hours 33 minutesAvg Readers Rating: 4.4
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-review/PK/movie-review/45559270.cms
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December 19, 2014 at 10:20 AM
PK is the hghest rated film by critics. Hiader and Queen are the next.
http://www.sahinahi.com/Movies/Top
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December 19, 2014 at 10:32 AM
Fortunately these speed-bumps don’t derail Hirani’s film, because even when the script fails, his leading man doesn’t. Aamir Khan is riveting, and consistently endearing as the child-man who poses impossibly innocent questions that sting. Never reducing the character to caricature – despite his innumerable tics – Aamir delivers one of his best performances here.
PK sticks faithfully to Hirani’s well-oiled formula, and yet there is no question that it’s a courageous film. Packed with sharp dialogue and genuinely funny moments that offset the lack of subtlety, it is easily one of the year’s better films. I’m going with three-and-a-half out of five for PK; the director’s best since Lage Raho Munnabhai.
http://www.rajeevmasand.com/reviews/our-films/gotta-have-faith/
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December 19, 2014 at 10:33 AM
Lol, least some reviews are being posted for once. It takes a special kind of person to post all the other biggies’ reviews when they get 1/5 or 2/5 all the time. Also takes some stamina too!
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December 19, 2014 at 10:39 AM
Actually, copy-pasting too many reviews is pointless. Just review links are fine and unless you want something specific from that review. I would be more interested in people’s feedback who seen the movie instead of all the reviews out there.
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December 19, 2014 at 11:43 AM
Are Jay Baba Chillax maar. Bina dekhe film to flop Nahin kaenge jahaanpanaah aaj?
Tohfu kabool karein Shah ji
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December 19, 2014 at 11:29 AM
http://boxofficedetail.com/view_post.php?value=2898
Live Boxoffice …not sure trustworthy. But we will know tomorrow as PK producers are using rentrak for tracking BO.
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December 19, 2014 at 11:54 AM
It will render some Bollywood BO experts jobless. Sorry they are already reviewing movies 🙂
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December 19, 2014 at 12:00 PM
Understand this is heading for a 30 cr day 1 though all together the weekend will be substantial.
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December 19, 2014 at 11:51 AM
8.8 from 2340 users. I guess it will eventually come down to 8.5, same as 3 Idiots.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2338151/?ref_=fn_tt_tt_1
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December 19, 2014 at 11:57 AM
Biggest fake promotion is by Sachin Tendulkar. Whole life he’s devotee of Sathya Sai Baba and during the premiere of PK, he mentions that PK is the best movie of his life and the best message for anyone. The message is – don’t go to any managers(godmen) and directly worship the god, what a joke! 🙂
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December 19, 2014 at 1:16 PM
calm down master,it looks like you have an agenda of bring the film down and anyone praises the film you are banging and shouting on to people….just calm down ,the film is just released and lets see if the film is crap.what i hear from my friends that the film is superb and amir khan is outstanding…wait & see,personally i think the film has averagly comparing to D3
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December 19, 2014 at 1:28 PM
Lol Vijay. Sachin is clearly double standard in this aspect.
Also, where did I say the movie is crap? Are you reading my posts well enough to reply me or wanted to reply someone else? Moreover, why do i care about your friends opinion? I have seen the film and I trust my judgement over your firends.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:50 PM
The film is simply ” outstanding ”
watching it tomorrow.
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December 19, 2014 at 6:56 PM
P.K. Film FanClub retweeted
Taran Adarsh @taran_adaarsh · 10h 10 hours ago
#PK is getting amazing response.. It’s a great film. must watch.. my ratings 5/5
taran is said 5/5 “wow “
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December 19, 2014 at 7:40 PM
^That’s not the real Taran Adarsh, the real one hasn’t tweeted since HNY.
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December 19, 2014 at 12:03 PM
If there is no repeat value (tadka) , achieving big numbers becomes an uphill task after the initial euphoria dies down….
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December 19, 2014 at 12:10 PM
PK Takes Gigantic Opening, Set To Break Records
by Box Office India (December 19, 2014)
Ever since Rajkumar Hirani announced his next with Aamir Khan, which was almost three years ago, everyone had been waiting for their film to release. Today, the film, PK, finally did and took a 90-per cent opening across India, at both single-screens and multiplexes. Produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and also featuring Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt and Sushant Singh Rajput in a cameo, PK is expected to set a new benchmark at the box office. Over to the distributors:
Rajesh Thadani, Multimedia Combines, Mumbai
As expected, PK opened with 90 per cent all over India and in Mumbai too. Movie-goers of all ages, from kids to senior citizens, visited cinemas to catch the first show of their favorite director Rajkumar Hirani’s film. Without any doubt the film is will wrap its first day with gigantic numbers. The weekend too is house full as advance bookings were fabulous.
Brijesh Tandon, HK Tandon and Company, Delhi-UP
The film took a gigantic opening of around 70 per cent in Delhi-UP. In spite of the cold weather, people came out to watch the first show. As the film is not too long, exhibitors will be able to capitalise on the maximum number of shows. Cinemas have been running house-full from the second show and this won’t change till Sunday evening.
Jaspal Dhingra, Nanaskar Enterprises, East Punjab
Right now, it’s very cold in North India but in spite of that, Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan’s fans made sure they watched the first show of their favourite director-actor jodi’s film. This year, especially last quarter, was very bad for the industry but thankfully PK will salvage the situation somewhat. The film opened to 70 per cent in the morning but has been running house-full ever since in most centers.
Vijay Kher, NR Multimedia, CP
In CP, the film opened at 60 per cent and the second show saw occupancy of around 80 per cent. The film is on the lines of OMG!, which is why we need to wait till Monday to see its actual business.
Jeetu Khandelwal, Movie Pioneers, Orissa
It seems like Aamir Khan’s PK will finally save exhibitors and distributors this year as the last few months of 2014 were not good for business. But PK seems promising and expectations are high. The morning show saw 80-per cent occupancy and cinemas have been house-full from the second show onwards.
Rakesh Singh, Maa Sona Films, Bihar
PK took a fantastic start in Bihar. The morning shows were 85-90 per cent full and most multiplexes saw 100-per cent occupancy from the second show onwards. The reports are also good and we expect superlative net collections during the weekend. The film will definitely be a blockbuster, with record-breaking day-one collections expected.
Debashish Dey, Aum Moviez, West Bengal
PK took a bombastic opening in West Bengal. The film opened with 90 per cent in multiplexes and 30 per cent in single-screens. Expect huge business from the film as audiences are loving it.
BH Basha, Bahar Enterprises, Mysore
The film took an opening of around 80 per cent and from the second shows onwards, all shows were house-full. The reports of the film are also very positive. Finally, we have a superhit film as the last month was a disaster for the industry. Distributors and exhibitors were bleeding because of the kind of business films were doing.
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December 19, 2014 at 12:11 PM
Jagga Jasoos Postponed Again?
by Soumita Sengupta (December 13, 2014)
It seems like Anurag Basu and Ranbir Kapoor are taking every precaution to make sure that nothing goes wrong with their next film, Jagga Jasoos. Shooting of the film started last year end and is still underway, and the film was initially to release in May 2015 but was then postponed to August 28.
But a source close to the director mentioned, “There is a lot of VFX work, which needs to be done and the shoot will finish in March. Then Anurag will start working on the music with composer Pritam. So now the makers have decided to release the film in the first week of October as the timing is good and October 2 is a long weekend.”
PS: Recently, Akshay Kumar’s Singh Is Bling was announced to be released during the first week of October but it seems the film won’t make it in time. Hence, the makers of Jagga Jasoos grabbed this release window.
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December 19, 2014 at 12:32 PM
http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/aamir-khans-pk-wont-break-shah-rukh-khans-happy-new-year-opening-day-record-predicts-trade/
Aamir Khan’s PK won’t break Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year opening day record, predicts trade!
“We asked exhibitor-distributor Akshaye Rathi if PK will break opening day record of Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year and here’s what he said, “I don’t see it becoming the highest opener. Its not a colloquial soda bottle kind of film which has a big opening and than fizzles out. It will have good first day, second day will be even better and third day better than that. In fact, it will have a great first week and will go on to have a super fourth week. PK is lambi race ka ghoda…it will go the 3 Idiots way. Even their promotional campaign…they are not going all out. They are backing on the merit of their film’s content and that also speaks volumes about their confidence.”
While talking to a portal, producer-distributor R Pachisia said, “The advance booking is going very well, and I think, the opening day will be around Rs 27- 28 crore and the weekend collections will be around Rs 80-85 crore.” So even if PK doesn’t become the highest opener of 2014, it will surely get cash registers jingling.”
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December 19, 2014 at 12:38 PM
1st day 27-28 cr? Actually that looks fair for a non-holiday film.
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December 19, 2014 at 12:52 PM
Aamir Khan wants to direct Ranveer Singh
Aamir Khan and Ranveer Singh had a live chat that was later sent to the ‘PK’ Facebook page. The two were seen talking to each other and having a whole lot of fun.
There was lots of discussion about the upcoming film along with some future plans of Aamir Khan after ‘PK’. Mr Perfectionist also revealed that he wants to direct Ranveer Singh in his next directorial venture.
According to media reports amongst answering questions from the fans who were posting on the page, Aamir Khan said that he would love to work with Ranveer Singh. Even more so, he would like to direct Ranveer soon. However, the next movie that Aamir is going to direct will be a children’s film, in fact he has kept a script aside for the film too.
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December 19, 2014 at 1:53 PM
Will be watching it Sun, perhaps earlier if I’m lucky. I am rather glad Hirani has chosen this subject, specially in these times. OMG was perfectly fine as a film but I’m expecting Hirani to be more substantial on this score. Haven’t read through most of the reviews but have a general sense of what the overall critical response here is. I suspect that even for those folks who might not care as much about it initially it’s the sort of thing that stays with you. Can’t say more than this having not seen the film. I am pleased that Hirani seems to have less comedy here, at least in the second half. I’m obviously not looking for comforting preachiness here and something more edgy than this. But having less comedy is I think a good start already (I’d argued along these lines just some days ago). Because Hirani I think has done everything he could on that terrain. My sense here has always been that he should get beyond what he’s already done very well within a certain format. But yeah hugely iconic films like those build up certain kinds of expectations and sometimes folks react adversely less on account of the film they’ve seen and more because they’ve expected something else. Again I think this is the sort of work which will probably make even this cross-section of the audience ‘re-think’ the initial impressions. But either way I’d expect huge numbers of course but equally a good trendier. Now 3I cannot be the standard for a good trender. that doesn’t happen every day. I wouldn’t be surprised either way but I think there will be strong trending on this one in any case.
Now as for the rest let’s not get carried away here. OMG was perfectly enjoyable but it wasn’t some great classic that PK cannot live up to! Gimme a break! And on the box office people are just clutching at straws here. Repeat value? Really? When even the big grossers do 70% of their gross in week 1, some worse than this, only a handful even slightly better than this. Where’s that repeat value on any of these films?! And it wouldn’t take that kind of repeat factor even to cross D3. Of course you’d need it to match the 3I kind of trending. But a film with just Ghajini-like trending would beat 3I handily. Even with less than that it would.
In any case I’m not debating the actual film here because I haven’t seen it yet. Making a few educated guesses. And otherwise arguing against some points being made that I find fairly insincere (not in all cases). I’ll again say what I always do, anyone has the right to dislike the film, that’s never what I debate, but if one is going to wait for that big Aamir collapse (which has been a long wait for some I know) I think one is going to be disappointed here. Of course I fully expect that BOI line to be repeated here where even with the biggest numbers one might say ‘it did well but more was expected from the 3I team’. Yes certain films come with the strongest expectations but that doesn’t mean you get Sholay or Titanic every time. And those who are perfectly happy with their favorite stars doing 70% of the gross in week 1 don’t even have a right to ‘expect’ anything!
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December 19, 2014 at 2:06 PM
What PK seems to have done is made people realise once again how great a movie OMG Was and how it was ignored at award ceremonies.
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December 19, 2014 at 2:12 PM
“Now as for the rest let’s not get carried away here. OMG was perfectly enjoyable but it wasn’t some great classic that PK cannot live up to! Gimme a break!”
This is nothing but snobbery. First- who are you to decide that OMG is not a classic. Second- I have seen this with the elite blog audience and the Rajiv Masandeque pseudo critics that for all their efforts in pumping small movies or promoting the different cinema- that they will not give a movie like OMG Oh My god – its due credit. Just because OMG did have an AR Rahman soundtrack or a Dev D style Cinematography or Lyrics by Gulzar or some festival release- some how it automatically became less significant. Just because it tries to tell the story in a simplistic manner and has a small budget it somehow doesn’t qualify to be part of the elite discussion panelist…(On that note, utter stupid movies like Raavan were discussed for days)
OMG Oh My God- is the boldest movie in at least a decade, that handled a highly controversial topic in a country like India- in the most organic way and most importantly was successful in doing so.
What else- well, the people loved it.
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December 19, 2014 at 2:14 PM
did not have***
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December 19, 2014 at 3:01 PM
“OMG Oh My God- is the boldest movie in at least a decade”
luckily I’ve seen more films than you have! Or so it would seem!
On the rest no one is stopping you from discussing OMG or any other film. But you’re saying some pretty strange stuff otherwise. Revisit what you’ve written. It’s like saying ‘hey no one appreciated the film because it wasn’t made by a an important director, wasn’t shot by an important cinematographer, didn’t have BGM by a top composer etc..’! This is rather bizarre logic, specially when you’re not saying that ‘look here are the merits of the film, it has great aesthetics or whatever but it’s not being appreciated’! As far as I can tell everyone has more or less praised OMG since the film’s release (so that’s a straw man argument to begin with), the media was positive on it too. It’s definitely been a film with a shelf life. No one’s arguing against it. But if you’re going to pretend that it’s some sort of phenomenal film well you have quite a case to make! I’m only going to say what I said at the very beginning after watching it. It’s a perfectly entertaining, harmless, Disney-like film. And one has more or less said everything about it. Bollywood would be dramatically better if most films just came up to OMG’s level. However this doesn’t mean that it’s some film for the ages or something! Just within Aamir’s career over the past 15 years I could mention a number of films that are more important than it. Again I have nothing against OMG. Certainly think Abhishek would be lucky to get a film at exactly this level (narratively) from the director in All is well (let alone anything more) because he’d be assured of a significant success. But entertaining films, even those that are interesting in some sense, are very different from important films. As long as you argue the former there’s no issue. If you’re doing the latter well I’m afraid you haven’t even begun to make the case. And once more I consider OMG one of the better films of the last few years (not that this is ever saying too much when it’s about Bollywood).
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December 19, 2014 at 3:10 PM
I don’t know how many movies have you seen, neither do you know how many I have seen, and I do not want to indulge in some dick measuring contest (as George Carlin would put it).
Btw that statement was meant for Hindi movies..and yes it is the boldest hindi movie in the last decade or so.
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December 19, 2014 at 3:38 PM
I know you were referring just to Hindi movies.. I could probably name 20 films bolder than it over the past decade (hindi).
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December 19, 2014 at 3:44 PM
Why don’t you name them, then?
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December 19, 2014 at 4:43 PM
Just off the top of my head… Khakee, Dev, Yuva, Raavan, Talaash, Mangal Pandey, Aankhen, DMD. Just restricting myself to some very mainstream films. Even in the classic comedy kind of vein I’d easily take the first Munnabhai over it. And if I were talking about overall better films there’d be a whole lot more. Most of Aamir’s filmography over the past 15 years could be included. The thing is that a film can treat a certain subject but that on its own does not make it the boldest. Hirani, who makes much greater films than OMG, also does a lot of satire and so on. But it’s not the kind of things that one can truly call bold. I still give him more for the first Munnabhai because I liked the focus on the ‘clinic’ here (for reasons I cannot get into at the moment). In DMD or Talaash the critique of the New Indian dispensation is a very dark and potent one. Khakee and Dev speak for themselves. Notice how I include those two Ratnams but not Guru. Had it belonged to this period I would have added Dil Se too. OMG was engaging, a couple of times I even thought about revisiting it but didn’t get the chance. However this isn’t a film that bothers anyone. A bold film ought to bother someone. I’m not even getting into the aesthetics question on which ground too those films I’ve listed are in most cases vastly superior. And again OMG doesn’t have to be a bold film. There’s nothing wrong with it. I would list it among the better films of the past decade. But that’s not the debate here.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:27 PM
First- I have seen all the movies that you listed here, so, unfortunately for you, that argument won’t hold
and Second- I think my definition of Boldness differs from yours by leaps and bounds. You have named some very good movies but barring a Raavan and Dev I will not consider any of them Bold in any which way(and even those two were no way close to OMG)
When I said OMG is the boldest film in the last decade- I meant its a film that showed the hypocrisy of 1 Billion to their faces. Without mincing any words it told the people that what you are doing is wrong. the Protagonist Kanji bhai calls ganesha an elephant and refers to some durga as Female don or something like that. If you observed the details he even treats their murals and portraits like common insignificant objects..Serves wine in a Mandir Kalash and in the climax- (probably the best climax in a long time) saves himself from becoming the prisoner of his own device.
Its very easy to call this a disney movie(which it in no way is)- but the snobbery is.. if the same stuff was under some Mani Ratnam banner- we would heard the intellectuals moans.
and DMD ..really? If you’d have said Lagaan- I would have agreed..But DMD.. that’s just plain famboysim
And by my definition of Boldness…Here’s what I think were really bold movies in the last decade or so
Lagaan
Raavan (although the hindi version was amplified boredom in its treatment)
Nishabd
Black Friday
Matrubhoomi (the only movie which can be compared to OMG in terms of the difficult subject it handled.)
OMG Oh My God!
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December 19, 2014 at 5:30 PM
Nishabd could certainly make the list. But then as I said I wasn’t making a comprehensive list. As I said earlier I could make a list of 20 if I went through everything! Lagaan is one of the finest films of the last decade but not a bold film. Which is what the debate was about. On DMD here’s my fanboy piece:
and don’t worry.. you’re in no danger of being a fanboy on OMG!
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December 19, 2014 at 5:32 PM
Also when considering ‘boldness’ you also have to make allowances for whether the film is supposed to be mainstream or not. There is a lot that can be said for a limited audience that cannot be said in the same way in a major release. At least not without greater risk.
By the way on the ‘snobbery’ charge let’s be serious.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:40 PM
Yes, I am definitely a fan of OMG. It is a great film. But being a fan of a film is better than being a fan of an actor. That ways, I am not obligated to like their every film, howsoever insignificant they may be.
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December 19, 2014 at 2:26 PM
I’m looking forward to it still! Certainly caN’t be written off on account of similarities to OMG or that it has little repeat value.
The reviews are good. Rajeev masand was posted as a supposedly ‘bad’ one and he gave it 3.5stars and more than 3 Idiots! Hirani will forever bare the burden of his previous films and that is fine too. We will expect more but I’m glad Tony said that it’s better than the other stuff dished up this year. A better film will get trashed in account of not being as good as 3Idiots…well those are high standards! I’d rather be living by those standards than the ones annointed on Sajid and Farah !
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December 19, 2014 at 3:03 PM
Just back from PK – too much overwhelmed to write much and certainly would not mention spoilers here but those trying to compare this with OMG needs to take a chill-pill – every love story can’t be compared to Romeo-Juliet and Heer-Ranjha – isn’t it? After the initial euphoria dies down – people may understand what a powerful film RH has made and I am genuienly happy that after working in a trash like D3 – aamir did this – this is his best performance till date. The biggest star of the movie is the screenplay. There are myriad of little moments in the movie which pop-up unexpectedly. I wish movie were longer…..guys! don’t miss this for anything in the world. It made me laugh and twice in the film I was dumbfounded when I realized that tears were actually flowing out of my eyes………..what a film!
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December 19, 2014 at 5:28 PM
http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-pk-is-a-triumph-and-aamir-soars-high/20141219.htm
Aamir Khan is exceptional in PK, creating an irresistibly goofy character and playing him with absolute conviction.
He laughs at his goblin-ears and walks around with his eyes on high-beam throughout the film, but his transformation isn’t restricted to the physical — though I must single out and applaud the skittish way he runs, his arms straight by his side with his palms stuck out, reminiscent of Steve Carrell in Little Miss Sunshine when his character was running toward automatic doors, willing them to open fast.
That, there, is the impressive thing about Khan in this film, taking a few one-shot gags and stretching them feature-length so strongly and gamely that he wins us over with sheer heart.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:34 PM
http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/pk-review-aamir-khan/2/
What keeps `PK’ afloat is Aamir. He holds on to the uniqueness of the lead character and helps us ignore the contrivances, right from when he appears with a tatty tape recorder as sole raiment, ears sticking out, and an expression which requires him to widen his eyes, and keep them wide open.
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December 19, 2014 at 5:59 PM
First day looks to be around 27 crores. The movie might pick up today. The opening was underpar in Mumbai, started at 30% which was mildly disappointing. It has got a big boost by the high ticket prices and at some places is being charged double of normal movies. Interesting to see how it goes..
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December 19, 2014 at 7:43 PM
Same 1st day number as Kick. But that movie was watched by a lot more people on day 1 with less screens and much cheaper ticket prices. PK has Xmas midweek as Kick had Eid so it’ll be interesting to see how PK does with respect to Kick’s trending.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:09 AM
I think the movie will do 200 crores for sure. The movie may not have universal appeal but there is enough for the multiplex audience even if you take into account that OMG has robbed it off its novelty. The holiday season will help too. But I am not too certain about 300 crores as that was pretty much the expectation from this movie considering its a Hirani movie
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December 19, 2014 at 7:45 PM
It’s hirani’s and Joshi’s own teenage confusion & grapple with the contradictions in society with regards to religion that has given birth to the movie PK. These arguments on religion, blind faith and religious practices have been put across millions of times through different platforms (tv shows, movies, newspapers, books, debates).We hear these arguments. Agree or disagree with them and then move on with our lives.
The movie is highly entertaining especially in the first hour and later becomes repetative. It is a job well done on all the technical aspects and it is entertaining but kind of a pointless movie considering the claims and what director/writer wants to achieve through this movie. It is no high concept and kind of an extension of satyemev jayate which beyond a point became an exercise in futility.
If you consider the movie just for entertainment then its a good one. Beyond that trying to find a larger meaning to it is pointless. This is no life changing film especially for people who are already sorted out in their minds regarding illogical practices with respect to religion. And for others it won’t seep in just like it hasn’t seeped in as far as other efforts regarding these paradoxes are concerned.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:06 PM
“This is no life changing film especially for people who are already sorted out in their minds regarding illogical practices with respect to religion. ”
Well said. After all that tall claims, this is pretty pointless.
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December 19, 2014 at 7:56 PM
This was more subtle compared to three idiots but three idiots had a more relevant theme. Music did not fit in the movie. There were no situations and it was kind of forced. The perception that music will catch on after the movie is released is wrong. It is understandable why it took them so long to script it. The point can be made in 20 minutes and they stretched it to 2 and a half hours. Sanjay dutt role had no place in the movie and anushka’s tv gig was uninteresting. The climax was forced to drive a point home. Consider it a retarded version of laggay raho munna bhai but with a good dose of humor.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:02 PM
Baby delivery scene in 3 idiots was just there in the movie to prove a point and culminate proceedings. Here in this movie a lot more was akin to 3 idiots baby delivery scene. Anushka’s love angle, TV gig, Sanju’s character. It was Aamir, his one liners and funny situations. Rest of the movie was like an extended ‘baby delivery scene of 3 idiots’
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December 19, 2014 at 8:05 PM
Dhoom 3 had high octane action, PK had humor. Weakest Aamir movies after 2000. PK definitely weakest Raju Hirani movie.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:11 PM
If pk was first raju hirani movie and there was no munna bhai or 3 idiots it might have been considered path breaking and classic. This shows you HIrani has extracted all he could from his formula of film-making. His next ventures would have a more diluted impact if he chooses the same method. The method of using humor as a vehicle to drive a social message home.
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December 19, 2014 at 8:21 PM
“Welcome to Sajjanpur” is a satire that has natural flair and continuity that is highly enjoyable experience. It has everything working for it. If you see that movie you will realise what is lacking in HIrani’s style of film-making. Film-making is essentially about telling a story not inventing a story to fit in an idea or message.
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December 19, 2014 at 10:35 PM
Wow, first time I’m seeing someone mentioning ‘Welcome to Sajjanpur’ .. I really love that movie. Benegal did great job with it, actually UTV producing it helped it to make in start to finish and not struggle making a movie. Even his next, Well done Abba was very good. I hope he makes some more movies before his time.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:15 AM
Both WELCOME TO SAJJANPUR and WELL DONE ABBA saw Benegal regain his peak I must say. They are criminally under-rated gems. Irani was heart-breakingly outstanding in WELL DONE ABBA..
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December 20, 2014 at 7:24 AM
The writing was brilliant in both the movies. Hirani with no literary background going on to become the greatest film-maker alive shows you the foundations have been crumbling for a while now. With the reading habit dying out and people turning to films for entertainment and inspiration, the definition of a learned one has become cheap. What should have been considered as mediocre entertainment is valued as a gem and is the best we have. Other filmstars and directors have no pretensions about dishing out gems and inspirational for public consumption. There were rather clear about there role as entertainers. Hirani-Aamir combo has taken a wrong turn when they started considering themselves far above mere entertainment. Partially the blame lies with the viewers as well for getting impressed with mediocrity and turning to films for inspiration due to lack of intellectual growth and thinking for multiple reasons. It is silly but it is real and Aamir and HIrani have fallen into the trap of seeking validation for the so-called meaningful and high concept stuff they dish out. Vidhu Vinod chopra’s arrogance is no secret and he is so on the moon for being “Andhon mein Kana Raja”.
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December 20, 2014 at 7:31 AM
With Benegal he never considered both the movies to be literary masterpieces. They were brilliant in the scope of a screenplay. And he never shouted from the rooftops for validation of their classic attribution. They have a simple entertaining story about our social realities and that is what Benegal was aiming for. What Aamir and Hirani are aiming for and given credit for is far beyond entertainment which is not sane or fair. The competition with mediocrity have given rise to these illusion of greatness. While a Shyam Benegal is more effortless in giving a really good product without considering it to be ultimate or seeking validation for its greatness.
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December 19, 2014 at 9:31 PM
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December 19, 2014 at 9:36 PM
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December 19, 2014 at 9:40 PM
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December 19, 2014 at 9:51 PM
Reliance books 58000 tickets of PK!!!!!!!!!!!! http://kicktotalcollection.com/pk-reliance-books-58000-tickets/807
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December 19, 2014 at 10:47 PM
I can understand why the film took such a long time. It must have been very difficult to write this movie and pretty sure many drafts must have been written and scrapped and rewritten to put the concept on paper and make it convincing.
The movie has been directed masterfully and Hirani is a real good director and hope he does a lot of movies. I was relieved to see aamir nail the character and act so damn well. No doubt his best acted movie yet.
But somewhere the writing has let the movie down and concept could not be translated seamlessly and has a lot of hiccups for ‘me’ and a lot of sequences seemed hurriedly wrapped. I have highlighted ‘me’ due to my own expectations otherwise a damn good movie/effort. Definitely OMG has played spoilsport to this big venture and the uniqueness was lost…..
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December 19, 2014 at 11:53 PM
MS Dhoni– somewhat agree but I loved the movie overall, specially Aamir, he simply nailed it.
The movie will not have the same long legs like 3 idiotsbut I do hope that it does
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December 20, 2014 at 11:49 AM
Also I totally agree with Rahul here-
Rahul Roushan @rahulroushan
I find these reactions to PK from “right” a bit funny and paranoid, kinda similar to how some “liberals” recently blamed DDLJ for what not.
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December 19, 2014 at 11:32 PM
PK First Day Early Estimate
Friday 19 December 2014 23.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK is set for a 26-27 crore nett first day as per early estimates as the film has put up huge numbers at metro multiplexes especially Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore but the performance in mass areas is fair and could have been better.
The collections in UP, CP Berar, CI, Rajasthan, Bihar and Gujarat are good to average. In fact UP is pretty poor with even big centres like Lucknow and Kanpur putting up low numbers. The best performance is looking to come in Mumbai and Mysore. Its still a big number and will be the second highest non holiday opening ever but the general expectations in the industry were for a bigger opening day as Dhoom 3 managed 32 crore nett plus last year.
The high ticket rates have helped the city multiplexes to excellent numbers though occupancies were not huge. It will be imperative for the film to pick in mass pockets if it is to become that big grosser. It should still do pretty well even if they don’t pick up but wont be that mega grosser which was expected from the Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani combination.
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December 19, 2014 at 11:38 PM
Girish Johar
@girishjohar #Earlytrends suggest a low number from single screens / mass regions, but mpxs are super strong across cities through out #PK
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December 20, 2014 at 1:34 AM
Could not see PK yet but thanx for the detailed analyses folks. Some good unbiased stuff by gox, paapaas, master, miss dhoni etc
I’ve been looking forward to PK & had infact given it a ‘blank checque’ to go n strike and ‘create history’
But there’s a big DIFFERENCE between me and some other aamir worshippers since I’m nobody’s blind fan!
Few things are disappointing at the outset
26 cr net first day ?? Forget dhoom3, leave alone HNY ?
PK has barely matched Bang Bang (and bang bang had a full blown competitor called Haidar and much fewer cinema screens and lesser ticket price than PK & a much inferior director!)
“In fact UP is pretty poor with even big centres like Lucknow and Kanpur putting up low numbers.The high ticket rates have helped the city multiplexes to excellent numbers though occupancies were not huge. ”
Inspite of ticket prices and huge number of screens
This CONFIRMS Aamirs true stardom which is lower than srk, Salman, hrithik —it’s a fact!
And WTF am I hearing about PK copying OMG as folks like gox, paapaas, miss dhoni have picked up
After all this hoopla, this is DISAPPOINTING !!
I still give the benefit of doubt to PK and will be checking it soon.
I hope the film trends well and picks up due to the merits of the film and am sure it shoudl be atleast decent
But the first day numbers have stripped Aamirs true box office stardom and no spin can hide it
Hope the movie does well and picks up since I had high hopes of it and loved the ambition and concept from the promos
Ps: btw how is the ‘job’ of anu (I’m not talking of the’lip job’)
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December 20, 2014 at 1:58 AM
As our alien hero might say, hum frustrate-iya gaye hai ee sab se, because this film has so much else to recommend it. In the present atmosphere in India, it’s nothing short of bravery to openly discuss the failings of religion, and PK manages to do this in a highly entertaining fashion. This would not have been possible without the excellent cast headlined by Aamir who does not for a second allow PK’s distinctive body language and hilarious Bhojpuri accent to dwarf his character’s sincerity and guileless charm. That wide-eyed, big-eared look that seemed so odd in the promos is a perfect fit within this screenplay. And it’s heartening to see a superstar gutsy enough to allow the camera to let him come off looking physically less attractive than a co-star, yet Aamir does that throughout, but especially in that scene in which the awkwardly proportioned PK dances with Jaggu of the model-like figure and endless legs. Bravo
http://annavetticadgoes2themovies.blogspot.com/2014/12/review-310-pk.html?spref=tw
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December 20, 2014 at 2:04 AM
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT –‘SUPPORT PK’ PLEA
The opening day number DOES directly show the lead stars drawing box office power –
Let’s not find excuses of non holiday etc
U can’t get bigger than this combo hirani-vvc after munnabhai /3I and three years in the making and all
With increased and doubled ticket prices and much higher screens
26 cr is what u come up with ??? –there r no excuses here
Still
Without seeing the film
I have no doubts that the film will be v good and aamir will have done a great job –have never been wrong in that prediction
So folks
U r urged to go and watch PK on the big screen
SUPPORT good cinema
And save this brilliant combo
Ps: sincerely hope the film picks up big time over the weekend
To reach respectable numbers
if not the minimum target (of 400 cr net domestic!)
Ps2: May get to see this myself at some point to see firsthand what aamir/hirani have done with it …
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December 20, 2014 at 2:35 AM
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/more/videos/view/id/3120147
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December 20, 2014 at 3:00 AM
“Khan is tremendous as PK. He’s earnest and not at all goofy, making the ridiculous situations PK finds himself in that much funnier. It’s especially fun to watch PK adapt to his environment. He learns which mistakes will provoke a slap, and he’s always a step ahead of the angry mob chasing him. A scene in which PK figures out how money works is side-splitting.
The story slows down in the second half as laughs give way to serious questions of exactly what the faithful get for their devotion. However, the ultimate payoff to PK’s and Jaggu’s story is beautifully done.
The universality of PK‘s subject mater, the accessible way it’s presented, the nicely incorporated song-and-dance numbers, and the fact that this is just a damned funny movie make PK a great starter Bollywood film.”
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December 20, 2014 at 3:17 AM
25-30 crores should be a given – from the (alleged) raised ticket prices and 5400+ screens. It only needs an average of 50% capacity to come up with the number.
Five years is a long time now-a-days to make a film – and coming from the 3I team – it better be more than just alright.
The ‘bar’ for ‘greatness’ in Hndi films is pretty low – and this is for the makers, the audience and the critics.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:30 AM
@Satyam
What was bold in DMD? apart from short chaddis and Drugs?
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December 20, 2014 at 4:27 AM
@ In the present atmosphere in India, it’s nothing short of bravery to openly discuss the failings of religion.
What BS. I don’t think you need bravery to show hindu godmen in bad light. Every night in news channals (Esp-english) there are more then 2-3 pannalist who keeps abusing anything related to Hindu Religion be it custom or anything. Some of Hindu self styled godmen are also helping them by thier foolishness. So i don’t think in present scenario you need any bravery to show hinduism in bad light.
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December 20, 2014 at 5:33 AM
Incase you want a entirely different bold review of the movie, visit this
http://www.searchindia.com/2014/12/19/pk-review-wrong-number/#more-72898
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December 20, 2014 at 7:08 AM
“…, the movie has become another examplar of the mindless Bollywood balderdash that halfwit producers like Vidhu Vinod Chopra revel in dishing out every Friday to a nation of billion plus lobotomized Hanumans…”
Must definitely be a Hinduphobe who wrote this balderdash!
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December 20, 2014 at 6:51 AM
P.K. is now rated 9.0 by 4000+ users.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2338151/?ref_=fn_tt_tt_1
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December 20, 2014 at 7:10 AM
I think we should not jump too early into any conclusion. pk has every chance to go 30 cr or 30+ in SAT-in today SUN. If there is one actor whom people trust like anything it is aamir and one director who commands immense respect it it rk hirani.
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December 20, 2014 at 7:23 AM
Aamir Khan owns PK. He is totally uninhibited, believable and adorable. It will be one of his most memorable characters to date after Bhuvan in Lagaan. Anushka is effervescent as Jaggu, their screen chemistry works. Pixie like and stubborn, she is convincing in her portrayal of the character.
http://sufiyanasoul.blogspot.com/2014/12/sau-sunar-kee-ek-lohar-kee-my-review-pk.html?spref=tw
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December 20, 2014 at 8:43 AM
Watched PK, it’s a thoroughly watchable comedy but with a huge dose of problematic liberalism that presents all religions/religious problems with false equivalence. Jihadist activities and Hindus believing in babas/talismans/amulets etc. are painted with the same brush, as if the consequences are the same.
Aamir is great in it, perhaps one of his best performances, but the movie doesn’t come close to any of Hirani’s other films. And whatever PK tries to say on the business of religion, Oh My God already said it more trenchantly. Paresh Rawal’s abrasive manner of speaking about all-things God alone was bolder than the entire PK.
BTW read Sachin’s comments about the movie being Aamir’s best, and then Master pointing out that he himself is the biggest bhakta of that fake sai baba. Couldn’t agree more on the hypocrisy.
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December 20, 2014 at 9:16 AM
Paresh Rawal can be abrasive but the Khans cant be abrasive. They will be lynched alive if they dare to do so.
As for Sachin Tendulkar, liking a movie and following its message are 2 different things. I may like Amjad Khan in Sholay but I wont like to have him(the character) in the vicinity.
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December 20, 2014 at 9:24 AM
No, they won’t be lynched alive. I think your reaction is over the top.
Also don’t understand the Amjad comparison. Obviously one is not going to like to have a brutal villain in their vicinity, even if you liked the acting.
Sachin said it’s his best movie, and it’s got a great message for the country. It’s not rocket science to assume that he should follow it a bit if he think it’s got a great message.
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December 20, 2014 at 9:29 AM
It is like liking an anti corruption movie or movement, yet not minding to bribe to get things done which many of us do without batting an eyelid.
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December 20, 2014 at 8:48 AM
NY Times:
Appealing to God, a Disoriented Space Alien Hopes There’s Help Out There
‘PK’ Explores Religion Through an Extraterrestrial’s Eyes
By RACHEL SALTZDEC. 19, 2014
Photo
Aamir Khan with Anushka Sharma. Mr. Khan plays an alien who touches down in an Indian desert in “PK,” a comedy directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Credit UTV Motion Pictures
No religions were harmed in the making of this film. That’s the gist of a title card that runs before the credits in the Hindi movie “PK,” directed by Rajkumar Hirani, which states that the film doesn’t intend to hurt the feelings of any community, sect or religion.
And this sweet, ambling comedy about an innocent abroad — an alien who touches down in the Rajasthan desert — doesn’t offend, even as it pokes gentle fun at religious differences and hypocrisy.
When PK (Aamir Khan) lands in Rajasthan, naked and gym-buff, his first encounter with an earthling is a rude one. A man steals his flashing green pendant (it matches his flashing green eyes), a remote control that allows him to call his ship for pickup.
After some twists and turns — including a quick, PK-less detour to Belgium for a Pakistani Romeo and Indian Juliet love story — our hero acquires language (Hindi) and finds himself in Delhi in search of his pendant. God alone, he’s told, can help him.
Guileless, he appeals to God in all his houses: temples, mosques, churches. Sneaking into a maternity ward, he examines an infant from top to bare bottom, looking for a label: is he Christian, Muslim, Hindu?
Mr. Hirani’s other films include “Lage Raho Munna Bhai” (2006), a comedy about a gangster who becomes a Gandhi-inspired good guy. That movie and its slogan, “Gandhigiri,” were so successful that they ushered in a small real-life wave of Gandhian protests.
It’s hard to imagine that “PK,” with its slogan “wrong number” (when God’s interlocutors get their wires crossed), will have a similar impact. Mr. Hirani remains an excellent storyteller, weaving his disparate story strands into a convincing, satisfying whole — a rare Bollywood feat.
But “PK” lacks the redemptive arc of “Lage Raho” — at least its hero does. PK, played with earnest sexlessness by Mr. Khan, who possesses one of Hindi cinema’s most ogled bodies, is another man-boy innocent meant to remind us of our own corruption. He does, but so benignly, that it’s hard to feel the sting.
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December 20, 2014 at 9:01 AM
Rangan:
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December 20, 2014 at 9:49 AM
I feel reassured that it is going to be a very watchable film. Also get the sense that it might throw up big numbers but is not in 3I league. Which is okay!
RH -Aamir- VVC team is certainly getting hampered by commercial pressures/ expectations. Do agree with BR that Hirani might be getting formulaic and OMG similarities do take away from the novelty factor.
OMG was helped in no small measure by Rawal’s stupendous talent . He is one of the most ‘effective’ actors in history of Bollywood. Not much subtlety but boy , is he effective! I love watching him in movies.
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December 20, 2014 at 10:04 AM
Rawal’s single best performance since Naam and Kabzaa (and Hathyar and Arjun) days was his heartbreakingly beautiful turn as the Maharashtrian policeman in “Mumbai Meri Jaan” (his retirement speech itself made the film worth for me)- In a film populated by the actors of the calibre of Irrfan, Maddy and Kaykay, it takes something special to come across as the most memorable character of the film.
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December 20, 2014 at 10:24 AM
Indeed…he was great in MMJ but his retirement speech was phenomenal
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December 20, 2014 at 10:34 AM
“I feel reassured that it is going to be a very watchable film. Also get the sense that it might throw up big numbers but is not in 3I league. Which is okay!”
Why is it okay?? Average film with full on flaws from Hirani-Aamir is OKAY??
I see that a lot. Even though many of them are disappointed here, they end saying, I hope it does more great business. Is it charity?
Also, I see that Hirani inserts lot of latest Internet/whatsapp jokes in the movies. In 3 Idiots, we had lots of them but it was still fine as it had enough of original content. Here, almost majority of the jokes are the ones which many of them already read or heard, which is not really funny. If you have never heard that joke, maybe you’ll smile a little more but or else its going to be the repetition.
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December 20, 2014 at 10:27 AM
Baradwaj:”The bigger problem is that the film practically reeks of formula. Hirani has become some sort of Madhur Bhandarkar, telling, essentially, the same story and simply focusing on a different facet of society. If the enemy-establishment was the medical profession in Munnabhai MBBS and educational institutions in 3 Idiots, it’s now the religious right. If the catchphrases earlier were “jadoo ki jhappi” and “all is well,” it’s now “wrong number.”
Totally agree. This is clear formula and constructed film. Its a film about a concept and then trying to force a story around it and it is not as seamless as the Munnabhai films were. 3 Idiots was master work but it had a full on template as its based on a book and Hirani took that template to another level. This time the cracks are clearly visible in the story and presentation.
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December 20, 2014 at 10:41 AM
PK Has Very Good First Day
Saturday 20 September 11.30 2014 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK grossed 26 crore nett on its first day with some places doing excellent business while other places were good to average. The film was let down by the mass circuits with the performance in UP and Gujarat being on the weaker side. The best collections came in Mumbai city/Thane, Pune and South India. The Mumbai circuit overall was let down by Gujrat which grossed a low 2.50 crore nett. Mumbai circuit overall will come in a little over 8 crore nett despite big figures in Mumbai and Pune.
South India was fantastic with both Nizam/Andhra and Mysore being around the 2 crore nett mark. North India and West Bengal were good but UP, Rajasthan, CP Berar, Ci and Bihar were like Gujarat and performed below the mark.
The first day number is a very good one even though some places were below the mark and the opening is big enough to ensure a major success. But it will have show good growth across UP, Central India and Gujarat if it is to become that real big grosser and due to some places not giving optimum collections there is potential for growth.
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December 20, 2014 at 10:48 AM
Bollywood Hungama has first day collection as 26.63 crores.
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office/special-features/id/411
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December 20, 2014 at 10:52 AM
All Time Opening – PK at # 7
1)Happy New Year 24 Oct 2014 44.97 Cr
2)Dhoom 3 20 Dec 2013 36.22 Cr
3)Chennai Express 09 Aug 2013 33.12 Cr
4)Ek Tha Tiger 15 Aug 2012 32.93 Cr
5)Singham Returns 15 Aug 2014 32.09 Cr
6)Bang Bang! 02 Oct 2014 27.54 Cr
7)PK 19 Dec 2014 26.63 Cr
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office/opening-day
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December 20, 2014 at 11:30 AM
I disagree with Bhardwaj wrt to Hirani and he continues to be a master story teller and I cannot fault his direction at all. He has shot the movie so well and the first 15-20 mins I was hooked and thought I am in for a very nice ride. I wished that movie stayed in Europe for a longer time because when it shifts to India all sorts of contradictions in mind start to take place. The Bhojpuri dialect was unconvincing and subject matter a bit stale and Master has rightly pointed we are living in the age of internet / whatsapp and it is very common to go through them on a daily basis.
This movie would be wonderful if came at least 3 years earlier. There is so much happened in the last few years and the subject matter is a bit stale due to a very active media / news channels and then OMG just a year back due to blunt postures said so much more and direct. I doubt anyone will dislike the movie but it’s the humungous expectations from this collaboration that is kind of underwhelming.
Someone asked about Anushka – Though she has acted well and subject matter does not require her sexy looks at any point of time in the movie, but she has really messed up her face and felt sorry for her for going through whatever procedures she went thru.
Unfortunately the only movie where Aamir’s acting stands out will go on to be an avg one in viewers mind. Will repeat….
Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahaan nahi milta
Kahin zami to kahin aasmaa nahi milta
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December 20, 2014 at 12:21 PM
Sorry to be mean but Anuska’s lips looked way more ‘alien’ than Aamir’s antenna ears.
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December 20, 2014 at 11:54 AM
Just saw PK. In isolation this is a fine film from Hirani. And a fine act by Aamir. The expectations are high and something Hirani did well is editing and the fluidity of his films. I consider this to be the weakest of his on that score.
However, I’d say this is his most complex and ambitious film too. And he has woven a story masterfully. Some of the critisism seems to be why the love story. For me this is a smartly infused part of the film that was necessary for the climax. Dutts role too was not pointless. The situations are created well. The humour is less witty and repetitive.
LRM was a tough story too and Hirani struck the right balance between humour, sentiment and emotion in that film. Here I don’t think he misses its just that expectation is not up there.
To sum up this in my opinion is Hirani’s most complex but least polished film…but the best ‘big’ film since 3 idiots.
Still a must watch and indeed I shall be watching it again tomorrow !
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December 20, 2014 at 12:33 PM
“In isolation this is a fine film from Hirani”
Says its all. All the big film makers flop films are still miles ahead of average film makers hit films. Thats how it is and will always will be. Big films and big film makers have different expectations than regular films.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:36 PM
And which big film makers are you talking about?
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December 20, 2014 at 12:41 PM
Take anyone.. for example Mani Rathnam’s Raavan and Yuva are far better films than many average film makers ‘Hit’ films. Is it unfair? No, I don’t think so. Mani Ratnam has to deliver on his expectation and similarly Hirani has to deliver on his. Once you feel disappointed from this film, you can’s find solace saying it is at least better than Salman’s latest hit film or any other film. Thats completely incorrect IMO.
Also, if you read my reaction after FDFS.. I wrote it very clearly.. this movie disappoints based on the expectations, which is very fair standard IMO.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:47 PM
I’m different. I’d take this hirani film over others. If I hold a director to his previous record, he simply needs to make a better film each time. That does not mean Hirani cannot be critisised on his standards. I agree with that. But it does not mean I ‘disown’ his abilities.
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December 20, 2014 at 1:36 PM
I suppose as a payer of my ticket I can set my own standards. And that would be talented folk get judged on their talent but they are also not knocked down to the depths of poor talents if they don’t succeed especially if there creation is not to that level.
Let’s put it this way, if I held SRK to his 90s standards…he is long gone…or someone like Cruise too. However we still all turn up to their movies most of the time.
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December 20, 2014 at 2:35 PM
Master, the problem though is that the yardstick tends to change at both ends of the equation. Your point that Hirani or Ratnam should be judged by their own standards is a fair one and I don’t think anyone would argue otherwise. But precisely because these are more serious names the conversation doesn’t end with ‘disappointment’ if that is one’s response. There are many Scorsese films I find disappointing that I still engage with in different ways. This does not at all mean that I start comparing Scorsese to Hollywood on his worst days and still find him better. Rather it is that even weak Scorsese offers something interesting. Whereas if you make say a film in the Dhoom genre badly there’s nothing to be retrieved from it. It’s precisely the interesting filmmaker who can never be dismissed even when one finds one effort or the other less than some other. And this is the standard we use even at the highest levels of art. We don’t say we’re not going to look at Picasso’s average stuff! What Jay says makes perfect sense to me. I haven’t seen PK yet but I have this response to many other interesting filmmakers. I often prefer Ratnam’s flawed efforts to his perfect ones. Because failures are sometimes more interesting than completely realized successes.
On the rest I’d just say that (and I’m not directing this at you, making a larger point) it’s a bit odd to see people who are completely satisfied with all kinds of junk efforts from other Bollywood stars who then have the greatest problems when filmmakers like Hirani or Ratnam do less than what is expected of them (even accepting this for the moment to be true). Because such folks have never lived in that world to begin with. They’ve been living in the Kick or Bang Bang world! Suddenly they become greatly invested in quality cinema and hence are ‘disappointed’. I love junk films as much as the next person but the point is that those films don’t mean anything to me beyond escapist entertainment. I don’t discuss them seriously as great examples of anything. But most of the other folks do! They find great performances in films like Kick or whatever it is. They apparently feel HNY completely meets their expectations because they’ve only expected that much! Rather circular argument but that’s another matter. So if those are your choices for the most part you can’t suddenly be most disappointed when Ratnam makes Raavan or whatever. Again I’m not saying one should love everything but if one has never had the good sense or taste to insist on that bar in most cases one can’t suddenly go that ‘artsy’ one fine day (‘oh I’m disappointed I didn’t get Lagaan, now I’ll just go back to enjoying Rohit Shetty!’).
It’s always about how sincere one’s position is. I like most of Aamir’s choices one way or the other not because I’m devoted to it but that I became interested in him because he did those films (though I liked him earlier too it wasn’t at the same level). Similarly if I like Ratnam it’s so when he does Dil Se or Kadal, not just when he works with Abhishek. Raavan was panned, Kadal was equally in TN (though Raavanan wasn’t), I liked both films. So it’s a question of what one’s framework is. Again not directing this at you. Just making a larger point on why it’s hard to take criticism from a lot of people (not everyone) too seriously.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:01 PM
The Wazir Trailer looked so good on the Big Screen, and I really liked the “Achcha” seqyence and the Amitabh Bachchan and Ram Sethi sequence…it was so nice to see Ram Sethi getting that role !!!!
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December 20, 2014 at 12:13 PM
3 idiots was easily his most complex and best film imo, he took a simple coming of age story and gave it an epic bollywood treatment. PK is just not in the same league, but still a fine comedy. I would only rate Queen and Haider above it this year.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:26 PM
The complexity for me is in the topic. The only time I’ve seen significantly heated discussions is either on nationality or religion. Hirani’s previous topical films on socials gave messages that were far less edgy.
I liked Queen too but by big film I meant those by the top stars.
I do think Hirani will need to rethink future films in this ilk. I’m glad his next is the Dutt film and I hope he makes more a drama and darker film.
A word on Aamir. He walks away with a lot from this film. His performance holds the film and the role needed maturity and innocence. He once again delivers a complete performance unlike D3 which was patchy. Also his connection with social films and satayme jayete means he was right actor to deliver this act.
I liked Anushka, very natural.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:40 PM
Unfortunately as far as topic is concerned PK does not break new ground, because of OMG. There are even dialogues that are almost the same. This would not be a problem if the topic was routine but the novelty of high concept topics wears off quickly. Just imagine someone else making another gandhigiri or dreams heist film.
PK could have taken the religion debate further by having a more charismatic baba who presented a more convincing right wing case, but that would have made for a more controversial film.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:52 PM
Topic versus his previous films only. By the way ppl searching for answers or solutions on religion from a film director are missplacing there faith. or even for the film to provide some kind of debate. The film adequately disposed this notion perfectly in a scene.
Essentially there is no debate to be had!
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December 20, 2014 at 12:17 PM
What upsets me is celebrities calling it Aamir’s best film, not an opinion one can take seriously. Unless they missed Lagaan, DCH, QSQT, TZP etc.
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December 20, 2014 at 12:36 PM
It has become a fad to call the latest film as the best film.. there are no short on adjectives to praise a film!
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December 20, 2014 at 1:12 PM
http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/pk-box-office-report-aamir-anushka-starrer-casts-a-spell-earns-approx-rs-30-cr-on-first-day/1/407993.html
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December 20, 2014 at 1:17 PM
Both producer number and BOI number is around 26crore. Looks like incorrect source.
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December 20, 2014 at 1:56 PM
Three underwhelming movies for Aamir in a row. Talaash, Dhoom3 and PK. Has he lost his instinct or the pressure to succeed has become too much?
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December 20, 2014 at 2:00 PM
Good growth on sat
As per BOI- 29 crores
Gix,Master and those of similar ilk, don’t start counting your chicken yet.😄😄
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December 20, 2014 at 2:09 PM
PK Shows Good Growth On Saturday
Saturday 20 December 2014 23.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has shown good growth on Saturday as collections should cbe around 29 crore nett which will take it to 55 crore nett in the first two days. The 10-12% growth is good for a Saturday though this film lways had potential for growth as there was plenty of spare capacity.
The growth came from the multiplexes while single screens were in the same range as Friday. The plus for the film is that multiplexes outside the main metros showed an upturn though not as much as the metros. Delhi city and East Punjab have shown best growth as the collections for a multiplex film could have been better on day one.
The Sunday figure can comfortably clear 30 crore nett as the families will come out and if they take to it could be set for a big run..
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December 20, 2014 at 2:19 PM
It’s behaving the way Hirani’s movies usually do. Irrespective of where they end up they never start out massively on day 1 (a point I made months ago as well). With Hirani it’s always about stability and trending. It wasn’t just 3I on day 1, LRM for instance had a very good week 1 but it wasn’t like Fanaa (minus Gujarat) let alone in Krrish range or something. This when it was the sequel of such a hugely iconic film. But then in terms of trending it pretty much beat everything else in sight. The same for 3I. Obviously too early to know how this one will do in comparison with those films but the point is that when you don’t have a certain kind of ‘circus’ you cannot maximize initials (on day 1) in the same way. Hirani is too sincere a filmmaker to do that. Most other big films are designed to get a certain sort of response on day 1 and they of course do. Almost no one is like Hirani in terms of attempting a sincere film, at least at his scale of production (there are prestige directors whose films can become big or whatever but that’s a different thing). Even in comparison with Ghajini Ive always made this point. The latter excited the box office in certain ways that 3I didn’t, initially. It’s just a fact of life anywhere in the world that a certain kind of films attracts the largest audience initially. As for stars like Salman or Will Smith or whoever who keep producing the initials (though of course Will Smith’s best days are behind him) this is because they depend on complete repetition and essentially keep coming up with the same mix. If every Aamir film was like Ghajini presumably the initial would be massive every time on day 1!
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December 20, 2014 at 2:36 PM
But 3I destroyed every initial record too- biggest first day ever, biggest weekend ever. And it beat Ghajini’s first day/weekend by a bigger margin than Ghajini did the movie before it. Besides HNY, it should’ve had the highest first day then. But it looks to be 15 Crores less than D3’s weekend. But I think it can average 15-20 Crores on the weekends, I think the WOM is amazing. but 15 Crores is nothing, with the way Hirani movies trend, 15 Crores can be made in the 5th week!
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December 20, 2014 at 4:31 PM
was it the biggest first day at the time though? Didn’t think it was. Could be wrong. On the rest of course I do know but that’s my point, his films make it up in terms of trending.
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December 20, 2014 at 5:08 PM
But 3 Idiots had a release on 25 December, a holiday. But PK is a non holiday release and it is 2nd non holiday biggest opner.
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December 20, 2014 at 6:18 PM
Yeah it was the biggest first day by a distance. Found this old BOI article. I can’t find any authentic number for Ghajini’s first weekend though, the numbers I’m seeing make so sense considering that 3 Idiots had the highest weekend as well when it released. Actually Ghajini’s inital numbers seem shady to me…
Three Idiots Smashes First Day Records At The Box Office
Saturday 26th December 2009 15.00 IST
Boxofficeindia.Com Trade Network
Three Idiots has hit the box office like a hurricane and has smashed many first day records at the box office. All records at multiplexes have been smashed as it records collections which are just unbelievable. Many multiplexes have recorded double the collections of Ghajini for the first Friday. The first day business was an unimaginable 12.75 crore nett.
The previous record was for first Friday was 9.25 crore nett recorded by Ghajini last December. It must be noted that the Three Idiots first day was a Christmas Day holiday while Ghajini first Friday was a normal day but even accounting for for that, it is still a phenomenal collection. This takes the Three Idiots total to 15.50 crore nett with paid previews (2.75 crore nett) and the weekend seems to be heading for 37-39 crore nett collections which is out of this world.
The all India territorial breakdown is as follows. Apart from Bihar, Assam and Orissa all circuits have recorded new records for first Friday.
Mumbai – 4.75 crore approx
Delhi/UP- 2.50 crore approx
East Punjab – 1,10,63,110
West Bengal – 80 lakhs
Bihar – 15 lakhs approx
CP Berar – 52 lakhs
CI – 47,89,000
Rajasthan -68 lakhs
Nizam -70 lakhs approx
Mysore – 60 lakhs approx
Tamil Nadu/Kerala – 35 lakhs approx
Assam – 8 lakhs
Orissa – 7 lakhs
TOTAL – 12.79 crore aaprox
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December 20, 2014 at 8:47 PM
thanks.. didn’t remember this..
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December 20, 2014 at 6:26 PM
“But 3 Idiots had a release on 25 December, a holiday. But PK is a non holiday release and it is 2nd non holiday biggest opner.”
True but it’s behind D3 by 6-7 crores which is a lot. 3 Idiots, taking into the holiday and everything destroyed all previous first days- including the Dhooms, Ghajini’s, SIK, etc all the movies that had were designed for the first day initial bang like Satyam said.
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December 20, 2014 at 6:01 PM
Satyam, ur correct there in the way Hirani movies behave. But in terms of occupancies this one is pretty poor. The spare capacity is huge here. The first day is what a bang Bang did and less than the 3rd day of HNY which was on its way down. But the audience review here is on the good side so I have no doubts it will reach 200 crores at the very least. But its surprising why it opened so low. I was expecting an opening of around 30+ crores.
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December 20, 2014 at 7:22 PM
Possible reasons for PK’s comparitively low footfalls–1. aamir’s initial nude look in promos put off family audiences.My three nieces and nephew are not keen on film; normally they’d be busy getting tickets for first weekend.
2. Possible false WOM about supposed anti-Hindu content of film.Both OMG and PK talk of similar topic– but OMG had no Muslim connection in main cast, so spared the twitter-fb-trashing from righteous religious commenters finding malice in PK.
Many theatres are retaining old rates, but a few have raised ticket rates, leading to a ‘pirated dvd pk festival’ situation.
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December 20, 2014 at 9:53 PM
Some reaction about price increase. Siddharth Roy Kapoor said, if you feel price in multiplex is more, you can watch it in Single screen 🙂
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December 20, 2014 at 2:56 PM
🙂 Rajen. Couldn’t negate a single point “the similar ilk” made yet somehow you doubt the intentions. Aamir rediscovered himself as an actor in Talaash and PK yet the movies did not match up. PK can be considered as Aamir’s comedy movie along with Andaz Apna Apna and i enjoyed both on that count.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:32 PM
I’m unlike you. At least I watched the movie first day and gave honest feedback. Moreover, I said, it will still be the No.1 or at the worst No.2 Hit of the year, which is certainly above 200 crore. There is enough audience for such a movie but my point is regarding the disappointment with respect to the plot. Samething I remember posting during Dhoom3, it will be the biggest hit but it won’t do 300 crore as it was dragging at some level and watching it looked like an exhaustive experience. Here too, if had been perfectly seamless story telling, it would have done 300 crore without a doubt.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:32 PM
my above reply is to rajen1.
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December 20, 2014 at 3:39 PM
PK deserves to do well better than most so-called BBs we have this year. The cinema we have has stooped to the level of Action Jackson/HNY. In that respect, PK is a far superior film. Yes, it was a disappointment for me considering the humungous expectations I had (Hirani never disappointed me). But it still is a decent Hindi film and better than all Salman and SRK films made in the meantime
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December 20, 2014 at 3:44 PM
Let us not discuss the crores too much for a while! I think its the fans’ interest which fans empty and pointless discussions like these.
Imagine an IMDB board which is filled with arguments over how much a Forrest Gump did in the third weekend in some random theatre in LA.
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December 20, 2014 at 7:46 PM
agreed. this constant chatter about the numbers is so dull. i wish everyone would just agree to not discuss it at all.
and i agree with your above thoughts about the movie.
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December 20, 2014 at 4:50 PM
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December 20, 2014 at 4:59 PM
PK first day North America $967,152
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December 20, 2014 at 5:10 PM
Just shy of D3
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December 20, 2014 at 6:27 PM
Top 10 USA Day 1
2013 Dhoom 3 -$1,081,575
2014 PK – $967,152
2013 Chennai Express – $955,681
2014 Happy New year – $682,591
2011 Don 2 – $577,577
2012 Talaash – $485,036
2013 RaamLeela – $450,000
2010 My Name Is Khan – $446,645
2012 Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani – $430,000
2007 Om Shanti Om – $385,000
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December 20, 2014 at 6:30 PM
Aamir has definitely taken over US. D3 > CE, PK > HNY, Talaash > MNIK. HNY is actually extremely low considering the promotions done. And Chennai Express is extremely high considering it’s a Rohit Shetty movie and came out when SRK was at an all time low! But Deepika has 5/10 top 10 opening days!
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December 20, 2014 at 11:06 PM
saw the movie in Chicago on Friday and all the shows were sold out. this is certainly doing well here in the US and think it will only get stronger. I really don’t know how well it will hold up in India though…it does have a very liberal view…but as far as an entertainer…this is one of the best pure entertainers i’ve seen in a while! think Dabangg was the last film I thoroughly enjoyed. Also this is definitely the weakest Hirani movie yet…has some loose ends. LRM remains his best most complete work IMO.
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December 20, 2014 at 7:45 PM
Found this link posted today in FB about PK theme.have not seen the movie so i can’t comment now.. http://5forty3.in/2014/12/pk-why-is-hinduism-a-blot-on-the-idea-of-india/
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December 20, 2014 at 8:52 PM
the best review of PK so far on SS An Jo – good write-up – balanced
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December 21, 2014 at 8:03 AM
Nahta:
“On the whole, PK is an outstanding entertainer with a strong message relevant to all human beings. It will easily prove to be one of the biggest Bollywood blockbusters, probably, the biggest also. It has all chances to emerge as the first film to cross the Rs. 300-crore mark.”
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December 21, 2014 at 10:13 AM
PK 2nd day North America $1.404mil
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December 21, 2014 at 11:20 AM
Through the movies of Raj Kapoor, Bimal Roy and others, Hindi film lovers of a certain vintage are familiar with romantic ideas like love for humanity and rejection of religious and nationalistic barriers. But with a cross-country, inter-religious love story in their screenplay, Hirani and Joshi are closer to Nehruvian ideals of rationalism, scientific temper and socialism. P.K. is a dialectic on religion on the big screen, without much of the splendour of cinematic technique. It is rooted in dialogue, scene and character, like Hirani’s other films. But the director’s biggest feat is the idea, its effortless translation and its politics. Someone in the broad-stroke canvas of populist Hindi cinema has finally spoken on behalf of the agnostic. Given the news headlines, how much more relevant can that get?
Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/…/9bHiI2gPhfze…/Film-Review-PK.html…
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December 21, 2014 at 11:22 AM
yes, I made this point the other day. Glad this film has been made on this subject at this very point. Enjoyed reading this piece (though I wish a statement like ‘dialectic on religion’ had been avoided!). Thanks.
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December 21, 2014 at 12:55 PM
Sunday looking
As per Indicine, could be 35 crores.
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December 21, 2014 at 1:47 PM
$3.5mm opening in US. Beats D3. Looks like the film has come alive over the weekend.
Saw it again today, much more easier watch.
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December 21, 2014 at 1:51 PM
yes I expect some long-term trending here.. think this is fairly clear at the moment. Beating D3 though is extraordinary.
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December 21, 2014 at 12:57 PM
At the moment in India. WOM is very strong. Also heard that its been given PG-15 rating in the middle-east, but apparently tickets are sold out for the whole week in the UAE.
Apparently, in India, there was some apprehension with the content initially, but it seems to have caught on.
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December 21, 2014 at 2:14 PM
I am especially pleased this Nehruvian film released at this very point! And to make an even more political point 70% of India did not vote for this current wave. Modi himself did not run on the old BJP platform. The point is that the Nehruvian social compact is rather more durable than one might think. Fortunately so, in my view!
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December 21, 2014 at 2:18 PM
~61% to be correct..Shiv Sena, Akali are part of that combo.
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December 21, 2014 at 2:27 PM
yes true.. but the point is that the last time around the Congress got 28% or something (without the allies). This time the BJP got 31% and of course a big majority. That’s the way things work in parliamentary democracy. However if one hypes it as a major wave, one that’s going to reset India and so on then the actual voting numbers belie that. Of course India has always been a lot more segmented in this sense. Nehru himself never got more than 55% of the vote or something. But 40% isn’t an unreasonable bar if this is how the election has been read (huge wave and so on). Certainly one doesn’t expect the pure numbers to be only a little better than those the Congress got. And this by the way when Modi did not run on the old BJP platform and essentially ran as a technocrat. The larger point once again is that no matter how much India might have changed over time (and it would be foolish to deny this) no one has been able to show anything like his strength. Even remotely close. Now one might say that Indian politics is a lot more segmented now and so on and that’s fair. But then one shouldn’t otherwise run with the narrative that would lead one to believe (if one didn’t notice the actual numbers) that two-thirds had voted for him! Having said that I’m not completely sanguine about this either because even with less support (overall) a lot can be achieved with the right parliamentary composition. the good news though is (from my perspective) that the current govt has already backed away from some of its key positions, certainly some very controversial ones. The dark side here is that the loonies have to be given more oxygen to make up for this (otherwise they’d rebel in disappointment). Getting back to PK even if the satire is not too sharp as some reviewers have suggested it will nonetheless be enough to irk many folks!
On a related note the BJP and the Samajvadi in tandem are playing a very dirty game in UP.
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December 22, 2014 at 10:31 AM
Thanks Munna for correcting the spin
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December 21, 2014 at 3:07 PM
‘Nehruvian film’
LOL. looks like Modi win has pissed off so many people for eternal time period even those sitting far away from India.
While you criticize others for giving political angle to a politics discussion, you never shy off bringing your frustration out in film discussion giving complete political color.
As for such Nehruvians, their hypocrisy get exposed when they stop functioning of parliament for 3 weeks over issue of Re-conversion. While, same nehruvian call for strike against anti-conversion Law. When re-conversion happens, that means same people were converted in last few years, then all were silent. Why not just support anti conversion law and support it for one and all.
God save us from such hypocrite nehruvians.
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December 21, 2014 at 7:22 PM
Don’t want to get into a political debate with you. At least not until you learn to relax a bit..
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December 22, 2014 at 10:31 AM
When Aaptards and certain Sickularist use the 31% argument , I can understand but if (until now) rational people like Satyam also start this Khisiyanee language then it pains me. Just keep being in denial. Have NO concept of how the Democracy works. Spins, spins and another spin.
One more point India specially Hindus usually keep their Movies and politics separate.
OMG was a hit and Paresh Rawal was elected, enough said.
That is why they vote for Modi and watch the Khans’ movies. So quit making the connection that PK is liked by the 70% people who did not vote for Modi .
P.S.- I loved PK, and do not think it is anti Hindus , it is against the middlemen , which a lot of people are victims of.
P.S. 2-
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December 22, 2014 at 11:59 AM
The real ones 😉
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December 22, 2014 at 12:12 PM
Brahma, Vishnu , Mahesh sab miley hue hain, yahee toh scam hai !! LOL
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December 22, 2014 at 12:21 PM
ha! right film for these guys!
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December 22, 2014 at 12:34 PM
You’re conflating two things here… if 70% did not vote for Modi or 60% did not vote for the larger alliance presumably they were not persuaded by the message? Even if one looks at historic standards Modi was still 15-25% short (i.e. the highest percentages won by one party). This does not mean that people on the Right (though obviously many people who voted for Modi voted for the technocrat, not because they’re culturally or even politically on the right) don’t watch movies with Nehruvian agendas. Why? Because an entertaining enough movie will get everyone on board. There are many Hindutva types who are big SRK fans. Actually this doesn’t at all mean that people keep these things apart but that’s a different story (many bourgeois types never liked the ideology of Bachchan’s films.. they still showed up because again the entertainment factor there was important.. not because they forgot their politics/values). I’ve always said that the Modi wave is the other side of the coin of the SRK Yahsraj/Johar phase (at least as it existed then). Both sides don’t like this argument but the ‘New Indian’ link is a fairly obvious one. Obviously they’re not on the same side politically in a literal sense. Now as for the Nehruvian thing that is still in many ways what people believe in, including paradoxically many on the Right! How? Because the Right is always about redressing some ‘wrong’ or restoring some sort of balance. Barring the total fanatics they claim to be anti-minority only inasmuch as they feel that the minority has been indulged in too much. Otherwise the BJP mouthpieces speak the Nehruvian language daily on TV even as they proceed to make a mockery of it. The point is this: why does one even try to do this?
Also movies are not something that one watches in brain-dead fashion. To ‘enjoy’ AAA you have to be willing to buy into that idea of Desai’s. To some extent. The idea (and I’ve written on this at length before) that somehow there’s a kind of entertainment which has no ideological component to it is total nonsense. Even the worst saas-bahu serials on TV are steeped in ideology. In any case I wasn’t drawing the kind of simplistic link you’re suggesting.
Leaving all this aside Rocky I think it’s unfortunate you’ve become increasingly reactionary over time. This is a terrible format to conduct arguments in. When others do name-calling they’re just ‘commie sickos’, when you (or the Right) does name-calling you’re merely factual. When people vote for the Congress for 10 years you keep lambasting the govt and the left and so on. When people vote for the BJP suddenly the ‘people’s choice’ must be respected. Beyond this it’s about trying to muffle any criticism or analysis as being definitionally illegitimate. In your worldview what is the possible position from which one might criticize the Right? If you’re honest the answer is NONE! But by the same token the same is not allowed to the other side. This is frankly a very fundamentalist way of arguing. You’re not this sort of person. I don’t see why you should try and sound like those who really are.
Anyway off for a PK screening. I’m a Nehruvian, that’s why! LOL! I’ll catch up later.
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December 22, 2014 at 1:04 PM
Enjoy the movie Satyam, will think about your observation……
Also Let’s keep this thread out of Politics.
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December 22, 2014 at 1:24 PM
The movie is certainly enjoyable. Only jarring point I can think of is the Pakistan angle. The guy could have been any Indian Muslim. But when your intentions are right you overlook these small things.
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December 21, 2014 at 2:16 PM
I myself couldn’t get tickets for a couple of screenings at my end. The others I can’t go to today. Will be watching an afternoon show tomorrow.
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December 21, 2014 at 2:00 PM
PK North America weekend estimate 3.5 mil http://pbs.twimg.com/media/B5ZoQVBIMAAS4pR.jpg
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December 21, 2014 at 2:54 PM
PK Dhoom 3 and 3I…has proved Aamir has taken up North America. completely.
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December 21, 2014 at 2:53 PM
My PK Review…. saw it yesterday in a housefull 6.15 show in Chicago. The movie is really good and compared to the seriousness the film OMG took, PK was much lighter. Here’s the point by point feelings;
1. First half was thoroughly entertaining and i guess the whole crowd was in splits.
2. Movie’s strength is Aamir Khan. I think he should be getting some big award this time for it.
3. Songs are effectively blended.
4. In comparison to OMG, PK took out the politics out of it. There were no netas here and only Godmen.
People calling this movie anti hindu, take a chill pill. This was a movie and there were pointers to muslim community about bomb blast and fatvas on girl education and a direct christian reference of religious conversions. So i think it covered it all.
This movie was full on entertainment and without a dull moment, infact the length of the movie is less than 3I.
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December 21, 2014 at 3:15 PM
I haven’t seen anyone saying it was anti hindu other than some shahrukh fans trying deliberately damaging PK.
Actually, there is nothing to damage here, i found it hardly entertaining.
OMG was much more bold, shocking and full on entertaining with thrilling, chilling and comedy. And then it restores faith in God in more prudent way.
PK is only about criticism, and childish activity, it shied off of bold action. It is much lighter film catering to much wider audience. But, thrilling experience in OMG is more enjoyable for me than full on comedy and same romantic melodrama. PK is very predictable.
I would say 3/5 for me.
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December 21, 2014 at 3:20 PM
That’s right. I think OMG was targetting atheism vs religious beliefs and stupidity and it had a complete answers overall. I felt Raju Hirani might have changed a lot of script due to the OMG came in 2012. Well i am responding to the trend boycottpk etc…when OMG was starring Paresh Rawal at helm, who is now a BJP MP ..from Ahmedabad. I think overall we should just treat it as a movie and from an entertainment stanpoint, it worked for everyone in the audience. Will trend well.
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December 21, 2014 at 3:39 PM
Very entertaining to see the ‘new’ OMG fans who have suddenly realized how good it was. With so
Many people liking it,I wonder how it didn’t make 250 crores.
Just like there were so many ‘new’ Vikram fans at the time of Raavan release.
So very predictable.
For the record,I loved OMG and even more the play it was based on.
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December 21, 2014 at 7:03 PM
LOL, true!
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December 21, 2014 at 10:45 PM
New OMG fans.Ha ha! Well, I have always wished to watch OMG, but did not go out of my way to get dvd/ search the net. Never caught it on tv, either.Should do so. Watching PK tomorrow.
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December 21, 2014 at 7:03 PM
No one has called it anti-Hindu..
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December 21, 2014 at 11:03 PM
Facebook is full of threads terming PK anti-Hindu, slamming Aamir the Muslim who dared to take on such a role. My query–Why couldn’t he do safe films like the other Khans.Salman is considered a saint despite his incidents-legal problems. SRK gets the occasional ‘paki/porki’ gaali.But Aamir is considered a hypocrite for doing SMJ( and getting paid for it)and now with this venomous twitter trolling ( somebody predicts that Aamir will turn ISIS terrorist by 60 yrs; on the internet you are allowed to write bs of the worst sort)–Aamir is the big bad Bollywood villian and Hirani his sidekick. Sad, pathetic.
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December 21, 2014 at 11:28 PM
I just ignore these things. Maybe his competitors or their fans must be behind this.
When elephant walks, the dogs bark.
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December 21, 2014 at 4:27 PM
saw PK last night and only one word for the film – SUPERB.
amir khan is on different level.
this cinema is so near to me and normally they dont show hindi film but for this film they have done it.2 minute walking distance.
enjoyed it,
http://www.cineworld.co.uk/whatson/pk-hindi?cinema=didsbury&date=all
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December 21, 2014 at 7:01 PM
PK edges out D3 for weekend honors in US- 3.46 million USD against D3’s 3.42.
Opens at #10.
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December 21, 2014 at 7:16 PM
Rentrak’s no. for PK -$26M (approx. 156 cr) worldwide for 1st weekend – “Notably, the Bollywood comedy “P.K.” from UTV earned over $22 million this weekend in just 21 international territories and broke into the North American Top 10 in its debut in just 272 locations for a global total of nearly $26 million.”
http://investor.rentrak.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=888578
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December 21, 2014 at 7:20 PM
it says international around $22M – which is roughly 130 cr gross = 100 cr nett (after 30% tax ded.) – looks less because that includes the 80-90% chunk from India. What about the gulf and other makrets??
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December 21, 2014 at 7:25 PM
The movie seems to have done well on Sunday and all sorts of figures are been thrown around ranging from 35 cr to 42 cr which is huge considering this is the third day for the movie. But I also feel this may be the third and final big day in terms of numbers….
I would be surprised if the movie does more than 200-220cr in its total run because it is still a very avg movie and there were many ordinary and dragging sequences in the middle which basically prevents a repeat audience…..necessary for a great trender. It may be better than the rest of the crap dished out but still not a completely satisfying movie experience. If item songs are thrown in masala entertainer to spice up the proceedings, this movie too had its fair share of forced sequences and bringing Bhojpuri and chewing pan were unnecessary to the mix imo.
Hope we are able to discuss the shortcomings of this movie in more details when more people have seen this and there is no fear of giving out spoilers…….
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December 21, 2014 at 7:37 PM
MSD, keep hoping.
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December 21, 2014 at 7:51 PM
something amusing about a Salman fan so ‘disappointed’ about weekend grosses or about ‘average’ movies.. now you might say that Salman’s movies are average too but that Salman makes them something more and so on.. but then there’s something even more amusing in believing Salman is Amitabh bachchan!
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December 21, 2014 at 8:26 PM
That’s a very objective point of view and kudos to that! It seems a Salman fan has lost all rights to watch / praise / criticize a regular movie which gets the cerebral crowd in orgasmic
mode !!.
And while we are on that point Bachchan for most part of his top innings was castigated by the same well read and savvy crowd and made fun…..btw I am not a believer in revisionist history…..
Don’t you think its time you come down from that high horse and just accept facts for what they are….at least in the context of hindi film industry…….beacuse if wishes were horses, beggars would ride and actors like Abhi would not be acting a lackey to Ranbir and engaged in daily servilities. Check Pinkvilla today and there is ample evidence right there……….
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December 21, 2014 at 9:27 PM
Salman fans apni aukat dikha hi dete hai. No matter how hard they try, the mask slips off when their world view is threatened.
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December 21, 2014 at 9:59 PM
“beacuse if wishes were horses, beggars would ride”
yes you would know wouldn’t you..?!
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December 22, 2014 at 8:21 AM
lol….there were no wishes for bhaijaan… just commitments and performances !!
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December 21, 2014 at 8:20 PM
‘Hobbit’ Movie Wins Box Office Skirmish
By BROOKS BARNES DECEMBER 21, 2014 12:34 PM December 21, 2014 12:34 pm
“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” collected $90.6 million in ticket sales during its first five days in North American theaters, slightly better than the five-day total for last year’s “Hobbit” installment.
“The Battle of the Five Armies,” the final entry in this particular Middle Earth trilogy, cost the New Line division of Warner Bros. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer at least $200 million to make, not including at least another $100 million in marketing, according to analysts.
As expected, Imax theaters were an important contributor to the performance of “The Battle of the Five Armies,” which was directed by Peter Jackson and received weaker reviews than its two franchise predecessors.
Overseas, “The Battle of the Five Armies” has taken in an additional $265 million.
Second place for the weekend went to “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” (20th Century Fox), which took in a so-so $17.3 million over its first three days of release, according to Rentrak, which compiles box office data. The $127 million “Secret of the Tomb,” the third chapter in Fox’s “Night at the Museum” series, probably suffered a bit from franchise fatigue. But analysts say families could still power the movie to strong overall sales given the upcoming Christmas holiday.
The same might be true of “Annie,” Sony’s $65 million modernization of the classic musical. “Annie” opened in third place, taking in an estimated $16.3 million. Sony on Sunday said that “Annie,” which suffered pre-release piracy as a result of the cyberattack on the studio, is “on track for strong play and long legs well into the holidays and winter season ahead.”
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December 21, 2014 at 9:49 PM
PK Breaks Records On Sunday
Monday 22 December 2014 08.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK jumped everywhere on Sunday especially at places where business was less than it should have been over the first two days. The mass circuits all showed huge gains be it Gujarat, CP Berar or CI. Some of these circuits were 50% up. The film is breaking records on sundat at places.
The film has set circuit records in a few circuits and it could emerge with highest single opening day ever. Happy New Year in Hindi had grossed around 36.50 crore nett day one and this is PK on Sunday is looking at the range. The Sunday collections are sure to be over 35 crore nett and if the Mumbai and Delhi totals come up at records or near records it will go to 36 crore nett plus
The weekend of the film has cleared 90 crore nett and is the third highest weekend of all time with Sunday challenging to be the highest single day in history..
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December 21, 2014 at 9:59 PM
Don’t think it could have jumped so much on Sun without serious acceptance..
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December 21, 2014 at 10:09 PM
Haven’t seen any negative reviews on FB timeline. On film forums, some people have issues with second half or OMG similarity.
ps – It will easily do above 200. Monday-Tuesday will give hints about 300.
ps1 – Personally I found it better than 3 Idiots. I thought some portions of second half could have been trimmed. An Jo’s review correctly points that there is some confusion regrading age old customs and superstitions. The film talks about all religions but main antagonist is Hindu godman.
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December 21, 2014 at 10:10 PM
You still in doubt about WOM? The WOM is pretty good all over.
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December 21, 2014 at 10:28 PM
Not in doubt though some here seem to be. As Munna pointed out the next two or three days should tell us what a final total is likely to be.
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December 22, 2014 at 1:43 AM
PK is wholesome entertainment. I am tired of delusional SRK and ludicrous SK fans deriding this awesome movie. People do not realize how hard it is to make an excellent movie that is also hugely entertaining. This movie made time elapse quickly. If Iived all my life watching such movies I would fee I only lived 10 years
This movie does not discriminate between religions. However since 80% of Indians are Hindus it focuses 80% of its time on that. Raju Hirani and his script writer are genius. Aamir Khan is unbelievable. Anushka has finally reached her potential. It is a master stroke to show an unbiased perspective it is all about the perspective. This movie deserves to the all time highest gross not insipid D3 or crap like HNY.
Also it is high time a movie shows Pakistanies as suave decent enigmatic people they usually are not the ridiculous terrorist caricature they are made out to be.
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December 22, 2014 at 12:21 AM
this is good to see…it really is a enjoyable movie..and has lots of LOL moments. like i said..its a great entertainer. but really thought the subject would have a limit..but i guess something seems to be striking chord here!
have you seen it yet satyam??
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December 22, 2014 at 12:39 AM
Spoiler alert.
The love story is essential here for me. It’s cleverly woven as the perfect medicine for all that is wrong and along with peace was the only option as a solution. Hirani’s mastery cannot be understated on this score. The love story provides the problem, the irony and solution. It also provokes the solution on PKs part. His character needed to fall in love to see how the world he so couldn’t understand actually can work. And actually he is convinced that he wants to stay until he learns that love too can hurt.
The film has many messages, some clearly spoken and some not. On this score it’s just a master at work.
The issue is the pacing and editing and basically there are some dragging moments. The climax though ultimately sends this film off so well that it’s forgotten pretty quickly.
Audiences will warm to Aamirs act. Anushka too.
I am not surprised with this Friday to Sunday trend. Hirani’s films can do this, he lives up to the hype in a more subtle way in a clever outing. I would say he touched on peace in LRM and love was the only option against War.
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December 22, 2014 at 12:57 AM
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/PK-5-Lessons-we-learn-from-the-film/photostory/45586393.cms
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December 22, 2014 at 1:08 AM
MASSIVE !!! PK Sunday : 37 crores
PK Breaks Records On Sunday
Monday 22 December 2014 08.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK jumped everywhere on Sunday especially at places where business was less than it should have been over the first two days. The mass circuits all showed huge gains be it Gujarat, CP Berar or CI. Some of these circuits were 50% up. The film is breaking records on sundat at places.
The film has set circuit records in a few circuits and it could emerge with highest single opening day ever. Happy New Year in Hindi had grossed around 36.50 crore nett day one and this is PK on Sunday is looking at the range. The Sunday collections are sure to be over 35 crore nett and if the Mumbai and Delhi totals come up at records or near records it will go to 36 crore nett plus
The weekend of the film has cleared 90 crore nett and is the third highest weekend of all time with Sunday challenging to be the highest single day in history..
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December 22, 2014 at 1:40 AM
So this is biggest ever dingle day overtaking SRK’s happy new year.
SRK is doomed again 😦
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December 22, 2014 at 6:40 AM
PK Has Huge Weekend – Phenomenal Trending
Monday 22 December 2014 10.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK has had a huge weekend of around 92.50 crore nett. The film had a start which was not up to the mark at places but on Sunday it had extraordinary numbers all over with all circuits at record levels or close to record levels.
The film grossed 26 crore nett on Friday, 29.50 crore nett on Saturday and 37 crore nett on Sunday. The business is being driven by multiplexes with multiplex to single screen ratio much higher when compared to other big blockbusters. The trend of the film is phenomenal with a 11 crore nett gain on Sunday from Friday.
This can happen when a film is very lopsided towards multiplex collections as Saturday and Sunday are best days for multiplex collections. The mass centres were excellent on Sunday and if this continues it will post a huge lifetime total, possibly the biggest ever.
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December 22, 2014 at 6:53 AM
95 crores here:
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office/special-features/id/411
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December 22, 2014 at 1:57 AM
we have xmas on Thursday / then you have a Sat/Sunday coming up – these 3 days can each have 20 cr? take the rest of the days as 10 cr (average) – so by next Friday – we can still have 200 cr mark crossed – the movie will trend with strong WOM
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December 22, 2014 at 2:02 AM
I watched this in DC 6 pm show on Friday. After the show, more than half of the theater erupted in claps. Why are there people still doubting WOM?
When I talked of ‘long legs’ versus front-loading with respect to BANG BUNG and HAIDER, I was ridiculed here by you know who. I am thinking with PK’s trending [ahh that evil, disgusting word in Hi-fi of today], I am right on the path to having the last laugh..
I care two hoots how much this movie makes, if story-telling is the winner here, that’s enough of poetic justice for me…
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December 22, 2014 at 6:34 AM
Well said.
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December 22, 2014 at 2:42 AM
As per Rentrak, PK earned $ 22.1M outside US and if I take $4M other overseas territories, India gross comes to 112 crs, which should be equal to 84 crs Nett (considering 75% of Gross).
Am I missing something here or if 92 crs is correct, other overseas territories are just $2.5 M, seems unlikely.
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December 22, 2014 at 3:15 AM
Even Rentrak has ending numbers as 000 for ll international movies. So tier2 and 3 Single screens are not computerized and they also do an approximation like all.
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December 22, 2014 at 4:47 AM
Good to see a Sunday upsurge
Not getting a chance to catch the movie
Maybe Soon
But the music is not bad
Some melody n charm
Poore 75 baar mirror’wa dekhe
32 baar hum apna baal banaaye
8 martaba kapda change kiye hum
Bhar bhar botal badhiya scent lagaaye
Sajte rahe, sanwarte rahe
Kiya na koi bhi kaam
Aaj samajh mein aa gaya bhaiya…
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December 22, 2014 at 4:51 AM
Music is never a hirani strength
But here it’s subtle n sublime
Loved the bhojooori
Eee to Bhaste aaf taaime
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December 22, 2014 at 11:58 AM
rentrak is not tracking all territories :
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/aamir-khan-starrer-pk-scores-759820
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December 22, 2014 at 8:22 AM
Dilli abhi door hai……..
http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/all-time-top-25-domestic-weekend-pk-5/
Sr. No. MOVIE Collections
1 Happy New Year 1,02,76,00,000
2 Chennai Express (with Paid Preview) 97,67,00,000
3 Dhoom 3 93,68,00,000
4 Ek Tha Tiger (5 Days) 92,68,00,000
5 PK 89,13,00,000
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December 22, 2014 at 10:40 AM
Monday looks like 18 crore plus.May be even more than 20 crores.
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December 22, 2014 at 11:17 AM
$3.5 mn in US with a per screen average of $13k. Great result for UTV.
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December 22, 2014 at 11:19 AM
http://www.boxofficeindia.com/Details/art_detail/pkhashugeweekendphenomenaltrending
92.5 Crore Weekend. On an average, all figures are coming in to be around 90-92 crore.
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December 22, 2014 at 12:02 PM
19-20 cr Monday http://boxofficeindia.com/Details/art_detail/pkemergesbiggesthitof2014mondaysuperstrong#.VJhNzsAN
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December 22, 2014 at 12:20 PM
that’s absolutely outstanding!
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December 22, 2014 at 12:28 PM
Great result. 19 crore on a working day compared to Friday 26 crore another working day. Only full fledged holiday that it has got is Sunday and it exploded at 37 crore. Now waiting for a good Christmas result.
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December 22, 2014 at 12:47 PM
the biggest total ever, 300 or whatever it is is certainly on the cards.
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December 22, 2014 at 2:19 PM
Hard to say where it will end. My sense is north of 280 but time will tell. So far signs are very good.
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December 22, 2014 at 1:57 PM
The budget of the movie without Aamir and Raju’s compensation is 75 crore (BOI).
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December 22, 2014 at 2:07 PM
How can you calculate budget without the hefty compensations of those two?
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December 22, 2014 at 2:17 PM
I am just putting information that i saw on BOI. Someone asked them this and they replied that the overall budget for PK with promotions is 75 crore. This doesnt include Aamir and Raju Hirani’s compensation. So essentially that would be based off on the overall earnings of the movie i.e. Theatrical, Satellite and Music.
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December 22, 2014 at 9:20 PM
what about VVC’s own share? 🙂
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December 22, 2014 at 11:07 PM
Vidhu is safe now. He can keep making whatever ‘high-art’ he wants now that Aamir and Hirani have pumped capital into his company with their ‘key-art’; for another five years. Then he will run into rough weather; and Hirani will again pump life for another 5 years with another milestone. And the saga will continue and Vidhu will continue talking and talking..
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December 22, 2014 at 2:21 PM
What i know though is for 3I, Aamir had a 30% compensation overall. So he took in a hefty 50 plus cr home for the same.
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December 22, 2014 at 2:32 PM
I know. I read the same thing . And, there is no way around it. Just that absence of hard figures for those two leaves one guessing how the economics of the movie would work.
Anyway, everyone is going to make money except those poor souls who bet against it!
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December 22, 2014 at 2:59 PM
So bigger question is where did they spend 75 crore? 🙂
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December 22, 2014 at 3:08 PM
Anushka key lips mein aur saarey Dharam key thekedar mein…lol
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December 22, 2014 at 2:22 PM
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December 22, 2014 at 3:54 PM
If I remember correctly, In opening credits he, LK Advani, Amitabh and Amitabh jhunjhunwala were thanked. On my FB timeline I have multiple people who are followers of him. I don’t know if he calls himself god/messenger or not like other Godmen.
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December 22, 2014 at 5:25 PM
He seems to have a great following and is controversy free.
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December 22, 2014 at 3:49 PM
Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ Is Biggest Ever Bollywood Bow In North America
UPDATE, 12:11 PM PT MONDAY: The numbers not only held, they were markedly increased for Aamir Khan-starrer PK in North America, scoring the biggest Bollywood opening of all time with a confirmed $3.57M at 272 locations. That bests Khan’s Dhoom 3 which released to $3.44M in the same corridor last December. Disney’s UTV, which is distributing the film, says the three-day take for the day-and-date release in India was $21M. That also bests Dhoom 3 last year which opened to $17.64M locally. Other international markets on PK, including the UK, Pakistan, the Netherlands and more, scored $4.27M in their openings. The global cume of PK over the weekend thus stands at $28.84M. There’s some controversy in India from religious groups against the film which poses questions about belief systems, but that hasn’t seemed to dent box office. PK is now the second biggest opener of 2014, behind Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year which just today was made available to worldwide audiences online.
http://deadline.com/2014/12/aamir-khans-pk-box-office-record-north-america-trailer-1201332400/
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December 22, 2014 at 4:00 PM
might crack the 10mil mark in N. America. The audience has shifted in N. America from SRK to Aamir Khan movies. Even Talaash opened at 1.6mil.
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December 22, 2014 at 4:11 PM
the audience in Chicago was very enthusiastic throughout the movie. A lot of clapping, laughing and loud cheers for many dialogues and key scenes in the movie. And also clapping towards the end of course. Last time I was at a US theatre that was *this* enthusiastic for an Hindi movie was Lagaan. HNY had loud laughs but no cheers and clapping during dialogues…but yes they did give an standing ovation towards the end…so not sure what that means. lol.
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December 22, 2014 at 4:20 PM
Yes…what part of Chicago you saw it in. I saw it in Barrington AMC 30..full house on Saturday and people loved it.
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December 22, 2014 at 5:39 PM
I actually saw it in the same theatre on Friday. All the shows were sold out. I was there visiting my cousin over the weekend.
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December 22, 2014 at 5:39 PM
Just watched it at a housefull show in Dubai. This is a working day, and the 10:30 show was housefull. No kids allowed (15+ movie cert here).
Needless to say, I owe an apology to the board for my previous rants on Aamir wide-eyed look. IMHO, one of the greatest bwood performances ever by a leading man, I mean, he just nailed it perfectly. No one else cudve played it, his expressions, speech, mannerisms were astounding. His singular best career performance!
Nothing much to add for the movie, it already has been discussed threadbare. Just Superb. And this will defn trend big. Hirani proves once again that good content wins BIGTIME.
PS – Not sure if this has been discussed, but the scene of Pyarelal (Ram Sethi) trying to sneak into the Bachchan show was rib-tickling. Wonder how Hirani bought the eternal BigB sidekick back from hibernation.
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December 22, 2014 at 5:52 PM
I had mentioned about Ram Sethi , It would be interesting to see if Ram Sethi had a role in Jaadugar ( The big B vs Godmen movie)
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December 22, 2014 at 9:12 PM
Ram Sethi was also seen in Ashutosh’s Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey recently.
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December 22, 2014 at 7:40 PM
They missed out a crucial scene in PK. When PK walks into the cinema he asks ‘why did this movie only last 7 days in cinema? A FAN of the film says…who cares it’s made 100 crore…it’s a hit. PK says ‘this is a 7 day film. It seems on earth you have 7 day films, even 3 day films. PK says he’ll make a 35 day film.And in his planet they only make good films. Not 3day films pretending to be good films.’
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December 22, 2014 at 11:15 PM
With a nearly $26 million gross from 22 territories including India, Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan’s PK was at number four in the world box office over the weekend for distributor UTV.
A powerful $3.4 million of that came from North America where it is being shown on some 270 screens.
With excellent word-of-mouth and positive reviews in The New York Times, PK could be the highest grossing Hindi film of all times in the foreign market.
The NYT called the film ‘a sweet, ambling comedy.’ It wrote: ‘Mr Hirani remains an excellent storyteller, weaving his disparate story strands into a convincing, satisfying whole — a rare Bollywood feat.’
But it criticised the film for lacking the sting as a satire and mistook the Bhojpuri dialect for Hindi.
With the lucrative holiday period around the corner, PK could eclipse the $25 million overseas record of Hirani and Aamir’s 3 Idiots. In North America, PK was the tenth highest grossing film over the weekend.
PK is the first film in India tracked by the international agency Rentrak which collects data directly from the theatres daily.
The highest grossing film worldwide over the weekend was Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies, which grossed a muscular $161 million from some 70 territories.
More amazing was the success of the Chinese action-drama, Gone with the Bullets, which debuted in China to a rousing $36 million, according to Rentrak.
UTV will continue PK on the same number of screens in North America in its second week, expecting a smaller than 60 per cent decline for Bollywood films in their second week.
Arthur J Pais/Rediff.com in New York
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December 23, 2014 at 1:23 AM
PK Sets All Time Record On Monday
Tuesday 23 December 2014 11.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK continues to breaks records on Monday with the highest Monday collections of all time with a collection of 21 crore nett apprx. The four days figure for the film is over 114 crore nett. The drop on Monday is just 20% from Friday collections which has never happened before since films started to record these 20 crore nett plus days.
The film did not start on a record breaking spree and it was Sunday when it came into its own and continued record breaking run on Monday. The records are likely to be broken for sometime yet and may possibly be on for the highest gross ever though the next few days will tell more.
The business on Sunday and Monday has been universal apart from Bihar which has not really come on board but other areas which started below the mark like Gujarat and UP are now collecting very well.
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December 23, 2014 at 6:24 AM
Incredible!
Will be watching it again at some point.
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December 23, 2014 at 5:33 AM
“Abhijat Joshi, who has co-scripted PK with Hirani, is the elder brother of playwright Saumya Joshi, who works closely with Umesh Shukla, the director of OMG Oh My God and long-running Gujarati play Kanji Virudh Kanji from which OMG Oh My God is adapted. In fact, Saumya has written 102 Not Out, the film featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Paresh Rawal that Umesh Shukla is directing in 2015.”
Apparently, Saumya had invited Hirani and Abhijat to see the play. “They saw and were very impressed by Kanji Viruddh Kanji. They immediately began to plan a film on the merchandizing of religion. But then, they got to know that Umesh Shukla was shooting a film based on his own play. Immediately, the script plan was revised and the idea of a “dream snatcher” from Christopher Nolan’s Inception was brought in. That’s how PK was born,” says the source.
In the defense of the PK team, the source says, “Raju Hirani and Abhijat Joshi are brilliant writers. They don’t need to borrow ideas from anywhere. They just liked the idea of religion as a commercial enterprise and wanted to use it. The minute they got to know Umesh Shukla was making OMG Oh My God! , they changed tracks completely.”
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/3294214/OMG-Oh-My-God!-and-PK-is-connected-to-Umesh-Shukla%27s-play
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December 23, 2014 at 8:00 AM
Highest Single Day Collections Of All Time – PK Tops
Tuesday 23 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
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PK created history on Sunday by collecting the highest amount ever in one single day. The top five highest single days in his tory are as follows.
1. PK (Sunday) – 37.75 crore apprx
2. Happy New Year (Friday) – 36.37 crore
3. Dhoom 3 (Sunday) – 33.89 crore
4. Dhoom 3 (Friday) – 32.27 crore
5. Singham Returns (Friday) – 31.68 crore
There are three other times when key benchmark of 30 crore nett has been crossed and that is the first day of Ek Tha Tiger and Chennai Express and also the second day of Dhoom 3. Dhoom 3 remains the only film to have crossed 30 crore nett three times, no other film has crossed it even twice.
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December 23, 2014 at 8:05 AM
Yet again BOI reduces numbers this time HNY record. This site is pretty shameless about this as they don’t state why.
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December 23, 2014 at 9:19 AM
they just make more ‘honest’ mistakes than anyone else!
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December 23, 2014 at 1:09 PM
PK is going to have a huge Tuesday reading some early reports. At this rate Xmas day might be 30+. Friday will be important, if it beats d3 10crore it should be beating d3 lifetime and then the race for 300cr is truly on.
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December 23, 2014 at 1:29 PM
” wow ” the film has huge potential yet
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December 23, 2014 at 2:22 PM
If I were a betting man I’d say that’s going to happen.
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December 23, 2014 at 2:00 PM
whats was BOIs first day figure for HNY? some sources had claimed 42-44 crs
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December 23, 2014 at 2:34 PM
Neo: BOI had only Hindi as 40crore for HNY’s 1st day. Now they mention about 36 crores while talking about PK. Thats the change people are talking about.
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December 23, 2014 at 1:25 PM
Acc to Boxifficecapsule,Tue will be 10% more than mon
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December 23, 2014 at 2:20 PM
Many people live and die on these numbers 🙂
I think they didn’t want to sound too off from producers numbers.
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December 23, 2014 at 2:32 PM
If this were the Roshans it would already be at 300..
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December 23, 2014 at 8:10 AM
Anurag Kashyap’s five best films of 2014
http://www.dailyo.in/art-and-culture/anurag-kashyaps-five-best-films-of-2014/story/1/1204.html
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December 23, 2014 at 9:57 AM
Aamir Khan: PK and Oh My God are similar!
Are you happy with the response to PK?
Yes, I am very happy with the response to the film.
A lot of people from the film fraternity have texted me saying that it is my best performance to date, which is really encouraging.
I have worked really hard. PK is one of the toughest films of my career.
One common reaction is that PK has an Oh My God hangover. Did you see that coming?
Thematically PK and Oh My God are similar, but the plot is totally different. The characters and circumstances of both films are different from each other.
Numerous films have been made on the same lines. In fact, I feel there should be 10 more films in the space of PK and Oh My God.
PK’s box office collection is only rising and that is an indication that people are watching the film and liking it.
http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/aamir-khan-pk-and-omg-oh-my-god-are-similar/20141223.htm
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December 23, 2014 at 10:07 AM
K Balachander is no more …
RIP !!!
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December 23, 2014 at 10:24 AM
Oh, pretty sad!!
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December 23, 2014 at 11:09 AM
Satyam, by the way u removed Balachander’s death post from here… my ‘oh pretty sad’ comment might be taken in response for PK’s boxoffice success! Lol. 😀
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December 23, 2014 at 11:12 AM
It might be both for you..
Just kidding!
Will fix the problem..
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December 24, 2014 at 11:24 AM
PK
contd from
Sorry folks -Havent yet seen PK (due to varied reasons)
But do I need to see it ?since I’m the ‘alien’and a hirani fan girl poured the storyline (& her heartnsoul)to me even before I saw PK
But good to see somebody gettin the due
Somebody who is NOT
BONING a starlet
Havin fun on the side
Doin ‘business’
‘Balancing risk’ like a portfolio
Somebody who does NOT own a football or kabaddi or cricket team
Somebody who gives his all to a film
I’ve only heard the soundtrack
Since I’m fond of music
In the age of digital remixing, Dubb step, voice treatment
I heard n enjoyed
Two songs of the erstwhile singer who is really a ‘singer’
Waste of time &
Mere Bhagwan
The point is in above all these pro and anti aamir folks
The anti aamir folks have to openly admit that this guy has given it his all
The pro aamir fans have to realise that if dhoon3 was cramp as per their own admission and as per poor trending (sic!)
Then beating d3 numbers can’t be a benchmark for an aamir-hirani flick after 3 years in the making
400 crores is the target!!
And not 300 or d3!!
Be fair folks
Ps: somehow I may manage to goto a PK screening but do I really need to ?
As of now
Bhagwan hai kahaan hai tu?
Ai Khuda
Hai kahan hai tu?
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December 24, 2014 at 12:21 PM
Apex, you seem to be in a rush.. must be that next flight to dreamland you don’t want to miss..
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December 26, 2014 at 1:55 AM
Can there really be any real BO debate anymore? 4/5 of Aamir’s last films have been all time grossers. Starter of the 100, 200, 250 and soon to be 300 crore club. Top 3/5 overseas grossers are his. USA is about to hit $10 million for the first time. Even UK is gone for SRK as dhoom 3 is the highest grosser there as the gulf is about to be gone for SRK/Salman as well. Just total domination everywhere…except
Maybe in Bihar and Germany!
I guess the first day record is staying with SRK for a while but Weekend will for sure be gone on Eid/Diwali 2015!
Also I still haven’t been able to see PK yet, hoping to see it this weekend
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December 26, 2014 at 3:54 AM
Bihar and Germany. Ha!
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December 24, 2014 at 6:33 AM
absolutely magic from amir,no other star has that magic and some had it but their magic is like small crackers,lol
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December 23, 2014 at 10:30 AM
Other so called hit movies marketing budget and the time spent by cast was humongous and PK’s was miniscule..just print posters release events!
Considering that PK is an undisputed, universal, genuine hit.
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December 23, 2014 at 2:40 PM
Pradip: You forgot 9 city tour done by Hirani and Aamir?
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December 23, 2014 at 2:49 PM
9 City press tours, Social Media, Interviews. The Less is more approach of PK is well documented on financial express and other business journals. The reason they did it was, for the fact to not disclose any aspects of the script. That would have made the general public immediately reach to the conclusion of treating it like OMG..This is the best marketing win in recent times.
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December 23, 2014 at 2:47 PM
As per Indicine, Boxofficecapsule and others..Tuesday is 18-20 Crore range again. PK is now pretty much trending like a Hirani film.
I have been following some discussions that Satyam and Sandy used to have on Naachgaana once 3I released and said how the script was champion there and how even SRK would have produced the same result.
I feel with PK, Aamir Khan is the real champion of the movie as he is carrying the movie on his own. This is not an ensemble like 3I which had meaty portions ala Virus, R Madhavan or Sharman Joshi’s Raju Rastogi…this is Aamir’s film out and out and will benefit him immensely.
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December 23, 2014 at 2:50 PM
Ontrack for 300Crore. First 100cr, first 200cr and first 300cr for Aamir.
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December 23, 2014 at 3:05 PM
“how even SRK would have produced the same result”
I don’t think Satyam would say something like this. He probably would suggest that movie would be different.
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December 23, 2014 at 3:15 PM
No Munna it was either Satyam or Sandy who said that. So Mr. Satyam would have to set the record straight.
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December 23, 2014 at 3:55 PM
Actually I never said anything of the sort. Sandy might have but I certainly did not. I’ve made a few points in this regard (and I’ve always been consistent on this). First off I’d say it’s completely false to look at a successful film and then conduct the thought experiment of substituting one star with another and suggest finally that the result would be the same. The star also makes the film’s ‘world’, he isn’t just thrown into it as an incidental matter. For instance I am pretty certain Aamir would not have had the same sort of impact that SRK did in those 90s Yashraj films. Similarly I don’t believe SRK would be half as successful in many of Aamir’s films. This is also by the way why it’s a fantasy to think (as some do) that if Salman is getting 200 crores in junk films he’d get a lot more in a better film. He wouldn’t! Because he’s liked precisely in the junk film. No one is there to see him do RDB! Now at a certain level of filmmaking with completely generic stars/movies you can do that. So it probably doesn’t matter at this point whether it’s Arjun Kapoor in a movie or Varun Dhawan or whoever. Not because their skill sets are the same but because they are not singular enough one way or the other.
Now on whether SRK could produce in general this sort of success that is possible in the sense that he’s still the kind of star who can get a certain kind of initial on his strongest days. However those films are also the reason why he can never trend too well. If you do films like HNY you can get huge day 1 numbers but no one is likely to watch those films after a few days. A CE is the rare exception. Or when you’re Salman getting huge numbers in nothing films precisely those films will cap your grosses (except on the odd day when you do a better than expected film in the same genre though even there we saw with Dabanng that the trending was still nothing like Ghajini’s let alone 3I’s.. and this is a film most people liked). A certain kind of star will always be potentially placed to get those highest numbers but in reality will not always manage it as easily. It’s not a coincidence why Aamir keeps putting up new benchmarks (across genres) whereas the others struggle to match those highest numbers even in the most commercial genres. And specifically on Aamir-SRK I’ve always said that the latter doesn’t have enough sincerity as an actor to pull off as successfully much that Aamir has over the past 15 years. So I’ve stated the very opposite.
But again as for those who keep saying that SRK or Salman could get the very same results it must be incredible charity or incredible stupidity (or both!) on their part that prevents them from doing the same! I have not been one of those saying it! Now having said all this films are about the script and so forth as well. It’s never just the star showing up, otherwise no film would ever flop with a major star. But things get politicized so that online (and otherwise) when films work people want their favorite stars to get complete credit. And vice versa.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:15 PM
“And specifically on Aamir-SRK I’ve always said that the latter doesn’t have enough sincerity as an actor to pull off as successfully much that Aamir has over the past 15 years. ”
Completely agree.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:17 PM
Thanks Satyam for the explanation. But overall from the debate lot of power was given to the script back when 3I was released, however with PK, its mostly Aamir Khan taking the onus to take the film to altogether new level.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:20 PM
Sandy could have said it.
It is quite possible.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:35 PM
‘But again as for those who keep saying that SRK or Salman could get the very same results it must be incredible charity or incredible stupidity (or both!) on their part that prevents them from doing the same!’
LOL couldn’t agree more.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:26 PM
It’ll be very interesting to see where Amir goes from here. He successfully piggybacked on the dhoom series and hirani. I don’t understand how he can repeat this sort of success in the future. He is not like SRK who can create magic on screen and make even trash look reasonable. He needs a solid script to impress the audience. Let’s see what he does next.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:48 PM
This is a very lame argument. Just because a guy chooses reasonable scripts does not mean he doesn’t have credibility of his own. We all saw what happened to box office of Swades (good film nonetheless) when Srk picked it- compared to that a TZP when Aamir did it.
your argument is as good as saying,, Srk can create magic with Trash only.
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December 23, 2014 at 4:59 PM
ha ha – a man who is responsible for 100/200/250 cr clubs and the best diversified movies in last 15 years can or can’t repeat this sort of success in future – what does it matter???? chill man – SRK/SALLU/AKKI /AJAY are aeons behind aamir in terms of content and in terms of BO – aamir need not prove nothing to anybody………….
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December 24, 2014 at 3:07 AM
SRK Trash (HNY) 250cr
That pretty much sums up the magic quotient. What you refer to magic is the audience connect which somewhere down the years has been lost by SRK. Aamir ensured just about enough audience connect (via the twin rivalry/jealousy plot) to propel D3 forward. But when SRK tried something similar via the “revenge father death” device in HNY, the results were less than spectacular. In fact, he needed Rohit Shetty’s audience connect in order to break 200cr with CE.
I agree that Sallu is on a diff planet. His movies are generally trash (barring a Dabanng), and it is his charm solely that takes them to safety. But even he has been unable to break the ever-increasing BO benchmarks being set by Aamir with each passing year since Ghajini.
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December 24, 2014 at 3:07 AM
I meant:
SRK Trash HNY was less than 180cr
Aamir Trash D3 was more than 250cr
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December 24, 2014 at 5:45 AM
Aamir is the only star in the last 7 years to break the opening day, first weekend, first week, second weeks and lifetime record with 3 films: ghajini, 3 idiots and d3. No other star has done this, the only records they have nabbed are first day or first weekend or first week.
With PK his film failed in this score but it’s on course for first week, most likely second week and lifetime too.
His films test the market whereas the others are running a shorter race over 3 days or 7 days. There films just don’t have legs. CE and Dabanng come close but still not in the stratosphere of Aamirs 4 films in terms of box office performance.
I find the debate now a pretty closed one until another star does what Aamir has been doing in this period – Chase his own records.
In overseas Aamir now practically is #1 too. Top 3 earners will be his.
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December 24, 2014 at 6:03 AM
fully agree Jay – the only star who possibly could do this after 5-10 years is ranbir
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December 24, 2014 at 6:26 AM
prasad,
that is the weirdest comment I have read,amir has done every different role and guess what he passed with flying colours,srk fans want like it but amir khan has his own level where srk and others will need binoculors.
master,gox and naveen, you tried your best to bring the film down but this film had so much that paying public could not miss it…
media should recognice and make amir the best ever superstar
or superplusstar
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December 23, 2014 at 8:08 PM
http://www.dailyo.in/art-and-culture/ten-reasons-to-not-boycott-pk/story/1/1176.html
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December 23, 2014 at 9:30 PM
PK Heads For Highest All Time First Week Total
Wednesday 24 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK is heading for the highest first week total of all time as it set to edge past the 173 crore nett total of Dhoom 3 which was set last Christmas. After five days Dhoom 3 is around 2 crore nett ahead but that lead will be wiped out over the next two days.
The advance bookings are huge for Christmas and it looks like the film will have a better total on Christmas Day than it had on day one. It also helps that PK will not have that weak day after a big holiday which Dhoom 3 had on day seven.
The way the film is going it may well go past the 180 crore nett mark which will give it a phenomenal average of 25.75 crore nett over the first days. It means the average collection of the film in seven days is similar to the first day collection of the film.
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December 23, 2014 at 9:35 PM
so 28-30cr on Thursday is a possibility…friday will be at least another 15cr…maybe even more. glad the film is being received like this. i think the comedy has worked big time, along with the theme of course. this is what a true entertainer behaves like at the box office IMO.
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December 23, 2014 at 9:48 PM
recall someone saying here it might not do much more than 200 or so..!
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December 23, 2014 at 10:24 PM
Master, Gox etc. lol!!!
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December 23, 2014 at 10:28 PM
And MSD!!
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December 23, 2014 at 10:50 PM
rajen1: you should contribute something to the blog, instead of just useless Lol’s.
Every movie feedback, good or bad, is equally valid and important to a film blog and certainly more than your inconsequential posts.
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December 24, 2014 at 6:30 AM
master. you should contribute something to the blog, instead of just useless negativity on all stars except srk.
Every movie feedback, good or bad, is equally valid and important to a film blog and certainly more than your inconsequential posts.
yes but your feedback for tis film was so awful that yours words have come to haunt you,its only because PK has done so wel and the you change your tune.
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December 23, 2014 at 11:25 PM
That is exceptional. Aamir has successfully manufactured a blockbuster. He just does it…he doesnt have the fan following (10.2mn twitter followers), boxoffice doesnt respect him (100,200,250 cr clubs)… i dont know what will happen to him now…last i read…directors are changing script to suit what Aamir likes. Huh!
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December 23, 2014 at 11:29 PM
http://inwww.rediff.com/movies/interview/aamir-khan-pk-and-omg-oh-my-god-are-similar/20141223.htm
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December 23, 2014 at 11:32 PM
Tuesday night 9:45 pm WASHINGTON DC – HOUSEFULL😱
Crazy stuff going on..
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December 23, 2014 at 11:36 PM
Toi is spreading lots of negativity. First they said that Aamir bribed OMG producer with 8 crores to stall that film. Now they say it is offensive towards Lord Shiva.
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December 23, 2014 at 11:48 PM
Online world (at least in Indian context) is very small!
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December 24, 2014 at 11:14 AM
The controversy is only aiding the film, it’s free publicity and just generating more curiosity for those who have been differential to watching it.
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December 23, 2014 at 11:39 PM
If it is a copy of OMG, why people are flocking to PK? Because many are saying OMG is better, more sharp and took a stand.
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December 23, 2014 at 11:54 PM
Whats funny is OMG was more harsh and critic on the hindu religious practices compared to PK. OMG made 80 plus crores and starred Paresh Rawal as the main lead who is a BJP MP. #BoycottStupidity
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December 24, 2014 at 12:07 AM
Parrsh doesn’t carry as much baggage as AAMIR or Amitabh..
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December 24, 2014 at 2:26 AM
Saw PK. A quirky, delightful little film. Probably the makers could have added a few more interesting episodes to expose the hypocrisy of earthlings, but I think this is Hirani’s least meandering films. It is crisply edited and stays on course. The second half is a tad bit ordinary after a scintillating first half, but I’ll say the film holds pretty well and this is a fine effort from Hirani. Like Jayshah said, the film has its share of complexities and shades to really make it a top notch film. Finally, what can I say about Aamir’s performance. Pure gold. Reminded me of some of Kamal Haasan’s finest performances.Easily the film of the year and a performance for all seasons.
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December 24, 2014 at 5:39 AM
Glad you liked it Sandy. And great to see you on here 😁
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December 24, 2014 at 2:36 AM
On 3I earning as much if SRK were the lead, well, I may have said it. sure! I It was a very effective performance from Aamir, but I don’t rule out SRK getting the same BO result. I would not say that about PK. That’s sheer magic from Aamir.
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December 24, 2014 at 6:35 AM
Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ earns Rs 100 cr on 4th day of its release – See more at: http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/aamir-khans-pk-enters-the-coveted-rs-100-cr-club-on-4th-day-of-its-release/#sthash.aGqk8yGs.dpuf
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December 24, 2014 at 7:18 AM
PK is an amazing experience, which needs to be soaked up. It’s such an important movie at this point of time when pharese like Love-Jehad, Ghar Vaapsi are vitiating the atmosphere. It takes gumption even to attempt such an intricate issue, but hats off to Hirani and Aamir combo for delivering it with panache and finesse.
PK does not say anything novel as OMG had already come with the same theme, but what makes it unique is its treatment. Hirani is adept at weaving the story with humorous situations, which is a rare feat as his movis also have messages embedded with them. And this virtue is what makes his movies a must watch and multiple watch. He is a razor sharp mind who knows the pulse of indian audiences that they don’t like preaching, so to make it palatable to the tastes of his base, he mixes a lot of elements to put across his message in very simple manner. And this skill is what makes him succeed in each venture he has taken so far.
There is a lot of criticism regarding the attempt to denigrate Hindu religion and Hindu Gods while leaving other religions with mild attacks. But it is far from the the truth as movie balances and launches scathing criticism on insane rituals performed in every religion sparing none. But the selective prism is a handicap when one lets his emotions and beliefs come in the way of rationality and it is this attitude ” My God and Religion are superior to others and is flawless” which harms the society and maintains the staus quo which is what these THEKEDARS OF RELIGION AND GOD do like. So when anything which questions their supremacy over their powers stings them and make them irrational claims and accusations on the person or body to suppress free thinking. Art is a potent weapon through which a lot of maladies can be healed and cured with out spilling a drop of blood! Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan are one of the rare artists who employ their art to the betterment of the society. Kudos to the combo for making such an enlightenging piece of art.
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December 24, 2014 at 7:53 AM
Spoilers.The first few minutes did not impress me that much. Anushka’s prem kahani could have done with more story and less song. All the witty lines were during the first half and the second half had emotional drama. Second half had more story and some surprises. Aamir was ably supported by Anushka, Boman, Shaurabh Shukla and Sanjay dutt. The film was dragged only because of songs and dances. The last scenes were very good and memorable. Sushant Singh Rajput sparkled. Better than 3 Idiots and Munnabhai series because of the presence of the alien. Some scenes had OMG flavour. I loved the Shiva chase. The shoe’s presence spoke volumes about mindless violence.The church and mosque scenes were hilarious. And so were the different colors for different occasions and for different faiths. Least offensive. Aamir did it once more after Talaash. Versatality.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:10 AM
Oh look, SanjuBaba got 6pack abs in jail!
http://publication.samachar.com/topstorytopmast.php?sify_url=http://www.sify.com/movies/sanjay-dutt-out-of-jail-for-14-days-goes-shirtless-imagegallery-bollywood-omyrT5fgaadaj.html
Right time to get bail, now he can enjoy all the PK-superhit-parties.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:55 AM
PK ke credit ki race lag gayee hai. Vinod chopra sahab pachtaa rahain hain ke script aur filming mein unka bohat sara contribution hai jiska credit unko nahi mila raha. Aamir khan bhee shayad acting se barh kar credit lena chahtay hain. Raju Hirani thakay thakay lag rahay hain. Perhaps this movie has drained them physically and emotionally and it has become too big. Race for credit is on.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:57 AM
The box-office success of the movie does not change its failing in terms of ‘what it could have been’ or ‘what it was made out to be’. So Rajen it does not tick every box.
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December 24, 2014 at 12:37 PM
As opposed to every other film that is so successfully realized in Bollywood?! It’s like castigating Scorsese for not making Taxi Driver every time while others are just busy with Rush Hour or something! On that note and since many here brought up that point I revisited OMG. Yes there are certain similarities here but it’s appalling to suggest that OMG is a better film that PK. There’s no comparison. Again OMG is a Disney-like story, perfectly enjoyable, a bit stagy at points (too much takes place in the courtroom..) betraying its theatrical origins. The idea that this is a ‘bold’ film (as Paapaas suggested) or that there’s anything out of the ordinary here beyond it being an engaging film on its subject is completely hyperbole. I thought PK missed some opportunities in the second half but at the level of pure comedy (the kind of satire attempted in each case), and the suggestiveness either way (not that I’m calling PK a very bold film either), as well as the overall accomplishment in each instance there is simply no comparison. And once more I like both films, I’m not calling PK perfect by any means (not that I’ve stayed with it for a few days I’d also say that I like it more than 3I though I’m not necessarily saying that as a critical matter) but it’s absurd to compare the two barring in the most elementary ways. Hirani on less than a perfect day is still a superb talent and Aamir has come up with arguably his career best performance.
All of this is not directed against you by any means. Just making a larger point. One must retain some sense of proportion. I’m not saying one cannot dislike PK but to call it an ‘average’ film or whatever is simply ridiculous. It is still one of the best commercial films over the last number of years. But again one can’t say that the best directors must always deliver the best films by their standards otherwise they’re only ‘average’. Meanwhile others are free to remain at the level of YJHD or Houseful! If Hirani or Aamir made a poor film I’d have no problems saying so (despite my admiration for much of RDB I was never comfortable with some of its narrative/political choices and I said it even at the time) but PK whatever questions one might have about it (and I have a few.. still think the first Munnabhai is Hirani’s best but the other three were more successfully realized relative to their potential than this one..) it is still a very good piece of cinema and specially given Bollywood’s contexts one would have to say that very few commercial movies are overall better than this one.
It’s true that the box office cannot be the ultimate arbiter in these matters. But then some here have been making absurd claims on even that score. About how no one was interested in the film, how it was average and wouldn’t do too much and so forth. Given that there is often a politics practiced by way of the box office it’s only fair that these things are now pointed out. I would have the same opinion on the film whether it made 80 crores or 300 or whatever. Much as I loved Talaash irrespective of the final gross.
To reiterate (as I always do) one is free to like or dislike any film but the OMG lionization is a bit silly beyond a point and the negativity on PK is as well.
And here I’ll add something on D3 as well. Even some Aamir fans are fond of castigating this film. I certain accept that it might be an uneasy blend of two genres and more problematic in this sense than the first two. Nonetheless it’s also for the same reason the most interesting of the three. Whatever problems one might have with it to call it an outright bad film or something if one has already enjoyed the first two (not to mention stuff like Race or whatever) is also something that makes absolutely no sense to me. Expectations not being fulfilled can only go so far as an explanation. One can’t go crazy just because one is disappointment (assuming this to be sincere in the first place)!
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December 24, 2014 at 1:01 PM
Satyam, loved your comment. Many valid points. I personally, have never fully dismissed Dhoom 3. Like you so aptly put it , Dhoom 3 was most likely ‘an uneasy blend of two genres and more problematic in this sense than the first two’.
My friend and old schoolmate who was a part of our four member PK outing, as with a few films occasionally, said that PK was good enough but shallower compared to OMG. I have told her that I need to check out OMG before I can accept her shallower charge against PK. IMO, PK suffered some credibility due to a wobbly climax, but otherwise it stands well enough on its own. It’s a film one could revisit with pleasure. Some of the lines need to be heard again. I noted that Saurabh Shukla was presented as a white robed rotund prosperous baba, not a typical sleazy godman of popular perception. I saw a pic from OMG and find that Mithun’s character seems an effimenate pinky finger waving caricature.Need to watch OMG, before making any comparison.
But PK could have been even better than it’s final form, but it is still better than many a typical Bolly film.I especially loved the epilogue and the dialogue from Aamir , the four points about being a human… am still laughing about it, a day plus after viewing PK.
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December 24, 2014 at 1:56 PM
I looked up my comment for OMG and I said exactly same thing what people saying about PK. “Enjoyable movie, second half could have been better”.
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December 24, 2014 at 3:38 PM
agree with that on OMG too.. about first half being better.. still I think PK is vastly superior overall.
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December 24, 2014 at 3:36 PM
For God’s sake (pun intended!) someone tries to sue god in OMG! How ‘deep’ is that?! Krishna appears as Akshay Kumar to lend a helping hand. Otherwise you have a preachy message at very many points exposing various hypocrisies connected with belief and religious practice. There’s nothing more going on here. It’s a classic Disney format. I have nothing against the film at all. It’s just that the way people are presenting it one has to rub one’s eyes in disbelief! And the amusing thing is you argue for a Ratnam film where a director is manifestly thinking of a lot of things and the same folks will accuse you of ‘over-reading’ things! Admittedly there is some overlap on the themes but so what? The films are still very different. But secondly it’s not as if every other beaten-to-death subject is ok to do one more time but somehow OMG means no one can touch something similar! And in any case this is not even a sincere argument when 3I tackled a campus comedy for the umpteenth time. Munnabhai has the lovable gangster, hardly for the first time in Hindi cinema. All of these claims just aren’t sincere (in most cases). It’s like the Salman fan being ‘disappointed’ with the quality of PK. yeah right!
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December 24, 2014 at 4:24 PM
“God appears as man” a blind faith and belief to counter other beliefs is far stretched as well as illogical- central theme of OMG can’t and must not be compared with factual and logical theme of PK -“Don’t know anything about gods and whatever is known is man made gods and extension of it.
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December 24, 2014 at 4:44 PM
Why are you agitated Satyam. The roaring BO has silenced all but the minute number of vestigial excuse-mongers, who are barely clutching straws at this point. If the “copy of OMG” argument did not work, it became the “anti-Hindu” argument, then it became the “weak second half” argument, etc etc. The massive acceptance of PK has blown away all excuses.
PK is the most bitter of all the tough pills that Aamir Khan has made his detractors swallow over the last decade. Basically, the weakest Hirani script has been uplifted solely by Mr Khan’s brilliant performance. Now that these manufactured excuses have not been able to derail the movie, and now that the success has been confirmed, his detractors are frantically searching for every possible excuse to add to the string of excuses that we were made to hear about Aamir’s past success eg: D3 is a franchise, 3I is Hirani’s baby, Ghajini was due to massive promotions, TZP was stolen from Amol Gupte, etc etc.
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December 24, 2014 at 8:49 PM
LOL, at some of the excuses!
But again I’ll say that I don’t have a problem with anyone who doesn’t like the film. I don’t think the debate should ever be foreclosed on anything. But yes some of the statements made by people are highly suspect. This doesn’t mean that there isn’t a space for genuine debate.
Similarly on the box office while Aamir’s singular status has once again been confirmed and it certainly belies the ‘expectations’ many had from the film it is also the case that one should be willing to make the same argument for a film irrespective of how it works or doesn’t. Now of course the box office does speak to larger cultural questions. One can use this to try and understand why one film worked or anything didn’t or whatever. But this is different from judging the film purely on its own. here the box office argument makes me uncomfortable because I don’t think PK is a good film simply because it’s working in such an extraordinary way. I know you’re not suggesting this but at the same time the box office tends to overwhelmingly shape the narrative in these matters.
Will agree though that many might have thought they had Aamir cornered here. They certainly wouldn’t have expected a better than D3 performance which now seems quite likely!
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December 24, 2014 at 8:40 PM
I think PK suffered from short length and I am glad someone said the same thing (i guess it is sandy) – it needed more sequences in the 2nd half to make a deeper mark. But as it is – it is a wonderful film and aamir-haters have got no choice except to come out with the most bizarre criticism 🙂
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December 24, 2014 at 3:37 PM
The box-office success of the movie does not change its failing in terms of ‘what it could have been’ or ‘what it was made out to be’.
yes it does change,now amir khan is “majestic”
srl is slated to no: 3
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December 24, 2014 at 12:46 PM
Gox: “:The box-office success of the movie does not change its failing in terms of ‘what it could have been’ or ‘what it was made out to be’. So Rajen it does not tick every box.” Only the box office success? Have you forgotten the 8.9 rating on imdb from more than 15000 users? Do you know how many Hindi films have got that kind of rating. Let me think. Zero? Have you also forgotten that It has the best critics rating average for the year at least? Sure it could have been better. Thank god for that. Hirani at least has something to aspire to!
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December 24, 2014 at 1:20 PM
Utkal: I think majority of them are clearly mentioning this is weakest Hirani film in terms of screenplay and well defined characters. Almost 90% of reviews mention the slump in 2nd half, its not perfect ride.That is another matter that his very good film is head and shoulder above other Bollywood films.
Also, imdb is still not standard for Hindi movies. Not many of them really give their rating on imdb. Its completely dominated by Fan clubs. Don’t think half of Salman’s audience ever heard of a site named imdb.
For me,
LRM > MBBS > 3I > PK.
Infact, one family asked me for HNY recommendation, I said.. if you haven’t seen, there’s nothing to go now. Its only for people who ‘want’ to see it. Same family asked me for PK, I said, if you don’t mind the humor about religion, you should watch it for sure. Its defnitely worth it.
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December 24, 2014 at 12:50 PM
Talking of at what level PK is being appreciated :
“In a season of Oscar-bait one of the most daring films of the year can be found in that perhaps sole multiplex in your region that frequently dedicates a screen to Bollywood films. PK, directed and co-written by Rajkumar Hirani (3 Idiots), is a bold exploration of religion wrapped in a sci-fi drama with several moments of broad comedy thrown in to lighten the mood — after all, it is Bollywood. The blend works nicely, especially as an almost atheist text. (Although one can argue it reverts back to the notion of a personal creator out there in the universe, it’s not quite a cop-out so much as it is the pretext made clear by the film’s opening sequence.) Along the way, the film’s only moment of playing it safe is a disclaimer announcing the feature as a work of fiction; perhaps Sony should make such a disclaimer at the start of The Interview, if it ever sees a release.
PK exists well within a tradition of Bollywood pictures about identity. Often they explore the Indian identity abroad (ranging from a masterpiece like Swades to the recent silly Canadian comedy Dr. Cabbie), and this film’s ambition is to explore human identity as PK goes in search for “his God,” taking on a religion leader aiming to expand into a mega-church. As gentle as its title character, with his bulging eyes and grin, the film is genuinely interested in good-natured discovery (and processing foreign transactions he cannot understand, like basic commerce in a funny sequence), while veering slowly into truly subversive territory along the way. An impossible creation for Hollywood to fathom and release in the United States, PK is a useful exploration and send-up of the mega institutions, in favor of a closer, personal relationship with the abstract concept of God, the creator. Perhaps for its planned sequel PK will land in the United States and challenge Joel Osteen.
Well-crafted and mostly entertaining, PK is much more than the story of a man who fell to Earth, yet it lacks the engagement, perhaps by design, of Hirani’s wonderful 3 Idiots. The character of PK, although filled with wonderment is too cold; while he “uploads” language files from another human, he never quite becomes socialized, creating some challenges in the likability department. He can be charming in his own ways, but the arc here is a little more intellectually driven than character driven. A rare Bollywood beast, I commend Hirani for a film that has been released on a week when Hollywood has stood clear of controversy. Like 3 Idiots (a sweeping epic that took on various issues within higher education in India and social equality), PK is both pleasing and fascinating as an issues film, making for one of the most interesting pictures in a month of Hollywood prestige, a film worth seeking out, especially for the uninitiated.
John Fink, The Film Stage
http://thefilmstage.com/reviews/review-pk/
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December 24, 2014 at 1:12 PM
Good one.
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December 24, 2014 at 1:32 PM
Master : “Also, imdb is still not standard for Hindi movies. Not many of them really give their rating on imdb. Its completely dominated by Fan clubs. Don’t think half of Salman’s audience ever heard of a site named imdb.” Then how come, D3 has a rating of 5.6, Bang Bang a rating of 5.6, Ra One, a rating of 4.9? What happened to the fans of Aamir, Hritik and Shahrukh. And what if most critics say that the second half hasa slump? Is anyone saying that the film is perfect? No critic had anything negative to say about 3 Idiots? ( For your information Raja Sen gave it a rating of 2). All I ma saying is that it has been liked by EVERY SINGLE critic and has highest average rating of the year followed by Haider and Queen. No more. No less.
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December 24, 2014 at 1:37 PM
Master, for your information, on imdb, Munnabhai MBBS is rated 8.5, Lage raho Munnabhai 8.3., 3 Idiots: 8.5 and PK : 8.9 ( It will come down to about 8.5 or 8.6 eventually) . So how does your fan club theory explain this ? The Sanjay Dutt fan club is as big as the Aamir Fan Club? Which is biger than Salman Fan Club – because none of Salman’s films have got rating over 8 except Andaz Apna Apna?
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December 24, 2014 at 7:57 PM
5th Day Tuesday Box Office Collection Of PK
Wednesday 24 December 10:19
Film collected 17.60 cr nett on Tuesday which was a super result. Film has total of 134.03 cr nett in 5 days and next two days will be big due to effect of Christmas holidays. That should take film at least clsoe to 175 cr nett which will be huge.
http://www.boxofficecapsule.com/collection/5th-Day-Tuesday-Box-Office-Collection-Of-PK-3235
guess BOI has taken a mini Christmas break…will be interested to see how Wednesday was. This number is from another BO site…still going strong.
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December 24, 2014 at 8:07 PM
Review of PK in Dawn, making some very pertinent points-
http://www.dawn.com/news/1152890/pk-the-most-important-film-to-watch-in-2014
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December 24, 2014 at 8:35 PM
thanks…this was a good read. some great points i really agreed with…
“PK reminds us to use fresh eyes and a new perspective and tells us that “the way it is” can be so much better if we are willing to fix it. It reminds us that questioning ourselves and the deeply-rooted preconceptions around us is not just timely but necessary.”
“The film conveys that religion is about a personal relationship to god and making one a better person but when people use it to push an agenda or oppress others, they are doing a disservice to religion or as PK would say, “you have the wrong number”.”
also OMG keeps creeping up in every review…and I haven’t watched it…so this weekend will be watching OMG!
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December 24, 2014 at 8:39 PM
I felt the same way when I watched Interstellar earlier this year. Even though the movie was not perfect…it entertained the hell outta me and raised some very interesting points. These kinds of movies make you think…make you ponder..and I love that stuff.
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December 24, 2014 at 8:52 PM
yes Interstellar isn’t a bad analogy. I loved the film and yet there was some ‘messiness’ in it. Gravity was perfect but barring obviously the SFX the narrative was rather too basic. Overall I preferred Interstellar though. The overall emotional tug here worked for me.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:17 PM
it’s a shame Interstellar will be under appreciated in the long run. Think some expected it to be the ‘answer’ to everything…Nolan isn’t Ms. Cleo!! lol.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:00 PM
In another breaking news, Aamir’s third miss (according to some ) collects 19.5-20 crores on wed to cross 150 crores!
A disjointed story or no story ( according to some) ne SRK – Sallu fans ki vaat lags Di!
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December 24, 2014 at 11:12 PM
PK Crosses 150 Crore In Six Days
Thursday 25 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK showed a little growth on Wednesday as evening collections in multiplexes jumped due to a national holiday on the next day. The approx six day business of PK is as follows.
Friday – 26,00,00,000
Saturday – 29,50,00,000
Sunday – 37,75,00,000
Monday – 21,00,00,000
Tuesday – 19,00,00,000
Wednesday – 19.5-20 crore
Total – 153 crore approx
The film has now crossed 150 crore nett in India and the six day business is very similar to Kick but still has one more day left in the week and that too a big national holiday.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:27 PM
Kick was at 141 crores at this point (also according to BOI). And it opened at 26 crores (also according to them)… so by BOI Kick had:
Fri — 26
Sat — 26
Sun — 30
Mon — 13 or 14
Tue — 26 (Eid day)
Wed — 20
So the PK trending is vastly superior. It showed a jump Sat, a huge one Sun. Also Kick fell quite a bit on Mon. PK of course had a big one. It’s basically doing 20 every single day. One can expect much bigger numbers tomorrow. By the end of the week PK will be 20-25 crores ahead of Kick. I don’t see how BOI can say it’s similar to Kick. It’s going to be 12-15% ahead by the time the week is done.
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December 25, 2014 at 2:14 AM
Everyone who has seen PK has seen it now. It will start to drop massively as the capacity has been reached and glass ceiling is close. 70-80% drops are fair game now and perfectl fine…it’s what every Tom dock and Harry film has done since 3 idiots anyway.
Nykavi is inventing his ‘connnect’ theory now. A posh word for trending. Or audience likeness. Nykavi – make sure you patent it. And don’t believe for a second you will find support in your theory. But don’t worry I am on your side. The side of cinema that connects and lasts a lot longer than a bubble gum.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:40 PM
think they should compare with D3. Same time frame.
this is from koimoi…they have used the inflated numbers (aka producers)…the trending is certainly most similar to D3…
http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/pk-might-make-the-highest-first-week-collections-of-all-time/
they are going for 34cr estimate on Thursday which would be remarkable to tell the truth and a 190cr first week total. Also the timing of the release of PK could not have been more perfect.
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December 24, 2014 at 8:56 PM
PK made you think? Good for you. As Gox put it well, those who are sorted in mind about all the superstitions , there is no learning from PK. I totally agree, this movie needs to be made especially for the masses and people in India who are still attached to old superstitions without reason but it didn’t make me think or open my eyes and gave me anything to think about.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:12 PM
my point is that this isn’t a mindless comedy or an mindless entertainer…has a lot of substance to it even with the flaws that it clearly has. No it didn’t “open my eyes” but still made me dwell on some thoughts that already existed in my mind.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:32 PM
I don’t like this attitude either. Just coz 1 movie comes with a social message, suddenly all starting attacking regular commercial movies which are 99.9% in Bollywood which is totally unfair. Just being different doesn’t win brownie points from me. Even a different film can have flaws, even a regular commercial film can be great. In spite flaws, PK has lot going for it,I know more and more are loving the movie for the humor and not sure how much the message is getting across.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:41 PM
hate to break it to you…but PK is as commercial as they come. But hirani proves that you don’t have to totally take your brain out while still making a commercial movie. The guy doesn’t treat the audience like they are total idiots. This has always been the beauty of RKH…and though this was his weakest directed film…for me it was his second most entertaining film after LRM.
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December 24, 2014 at 9:44 PM
see this comment from Satyam…relevant to the topic.
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December 24, 2014 at 10:20 PM
People need a movie to make them think? They are going in with the notion that whether the movie will make them think or not. Meine Aamir khan aur Rajkumar Hirani ki movie dekhi uss mein message tha. Somehow the audience is made to believe they have achieved something by seeing a movie with the message. The story the plot the movie is not as such a learning experience. Who goes in to see sociology 101 twisted in the form of a movie in a theater? It is the marketing or the brand aamir which has confused itself to be much more than a mere entertainer. A Pyaasa wouldn’t be a pyaasa if it hadn’t the seamless story telling. A pyaasa wasn’t meant to drive a social message home. It was to tell a story.
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December 24, 2014 at 10:27 PM
When there is no story to tell to begin with then you cannot call it a good or bad execution to begin with. A number of disjointed events put together to make a point does not constitute a story. Biggest failing of PK is that there were never a story to tell. The personal angst of the writers put out in the form of a comedy isn’t great storytelling. And the focus seems to be on the scenes and parts rather than the whole. Yeh scene funny hona chahiye, yeh drama aur yeah next wala emotional. Hansana hai, rulana hai, jazbaati karna hai. If this is not a formula what is a formula? LCD rule of Hirani and Joshi and so on makes a mockery of storytellling.
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December 25, 2014 at 1:54 AM
Off course, everyone is familiar with Sociology 101. But how many “entertaining” films have been made on the subject? How many have displayed the earnestness required by the lead actor? How many have raised sensitive issues in a very benign, non-aggressive format, wrapped up in comedy? PK is not some “come to Jesus” moment experienced by the audience. It is satire highlighting what is wrong in the system. If people are enjoying it, and deriving all sorts of metaphorical meanings, it means the movie really succeeded.
As I mentioned earlier, the “connect” is what is required for the audience to think that they actually derived something from the 2.5 hrs experience. Personally, the “bhagwan kahan hai tu” picturisation and performance was the best part of the movie. It encapsulates the despondency felt by almost everyone at some point in their lives, and the song was hugely elevated by Aamir’s act. The movie is packed with many such “connect” moments.
That “connect” is severely lacking in bwood of today, especially when it comes to the big stars and their extravaganzas. The movies with any “connect” have generally tended to be those that have small budgets with smaller stars. The Khans have had a connect with the audience for the longest running time of any superstars (even more than BigB). It ensures their movies to gross 100crs at the least. After that it entirely depends on the strength of ‘connect’, the earnestness/quality of performance which propels their offerings forward. Measures in that parameter, Aamir has been far ahead of the other two.
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December 25, 2014 at 2:02 AM
By comparing Pyaasa with PK, you are comparing apples to oranges. Both good fruits, but diff after-tastes. You are needlessly trying to weed out flaws, that really only exist in your mind. Why were similar exercises not done with the release of ETT or HNY etc? Is it because you knew they were crap to begin with, and all you could “derive” is the pleasure of watching a fav superstar hamming familiarly in a big extravaganza?
Now you have another actor actually performing, taking the pains to learn a language, mannerisms, whackiness etc. so as to actually enhance the viewing experience of the audience. And you label it as fraud! For having tried the same thing, Shahid Kapur walked away with accolades in Haider, a totally one-sided movie. But poor Aamir has to face brickbats for starring in a neutral entertaining message-driven enterprise.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:13 PM
Very well expressed relevant points from Dawn reviewer.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:13 PM
300 crores is definitely on for PK. The movie has been really liked and it is a great achievement for every one concerned. Hirani has once again proved he is the very best today and Aamir of course has given his best performance for some time in this. In all probability this will end around 325 crores.
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December 24, 2014 at 11:30 PM
well it is half way there…it would be quite an achievement for all parties involved. The only thing that would break the momentum are things like these…
Complaints lodged against Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ in Hyderabad
http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-complaints-lodged-against-aamir-khan-s-pk-in-hyderabad-2046864
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December 24, 2014 at 11:44 PM
Satyam, Did u watch PK. Have been coming to this site very infrequently as I am still settling in AUS so might have missed it. Pass me the link on your thoughts. I plan to see it here in Melbourne this week.
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December 25, 2014 at 6:56 AM
yes I did, will write something on it too. Do plan to watch it again as well.
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December 25, 2014 at 4:21 AM
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE :)))
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ffLVwDVzEmk
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December 25, 2014 at 4:27 AM
Merry Xmas SS
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December 25, 2014 at 6:57 AM
thanks.. the same to you and everyone else here..
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December 25, 2014 at 8:34 AM
Merry Christmas to all.
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December 25, 2014 at 10:13 AM
http://profit.ndtv.com/news/industries/article-with-pk-aamir-khan-set-to-break-his-own-record-717954
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December 25, 2014 at 2:14 PM
PK North America daily breakup http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?page=daily&id=pk.htm
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December 25, 2014 at 2:39 PM
I had a feeling it would challenge D3…but this will destroy it going by this kind of trending. 10mill + is looking likely.
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December 25, 2014 at 7:32 PM
I never thought I will be writing this. I may receive brickbats.
I enjoyed Dhoom 3 more than PK. and Talaash more than Dhoom 3.
I think Hirani is overrated. Sanjay Dutt and Aamir Khan are saving Hirani by their charm and acting. By the way, Raj Kapoor could have played that alien with his innocent looks. Maybe thats the reason Hirani took Ranbir but Ranbir can never have that innocent charm of Raj Kapoor.
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December 25, 2014 at 8:13 PM
I really like you mentioning Raj Kapoor as PK. To think of, he would have been really perfect if this was made earlier time.
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December 25, 2014 at 10:39 PM
PK First Week Daily Collections
Friday 26 December 2014 09.00 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
PK grossed over 180 crore nett in week one as the business on Thursday was better than day one due to holiday for Christmas. Below are the daily figures for the first week.
Friday – 26,00,00,000
Saturday – 29,50,00,000
Sunday – 37,75,00,000
Monday – 21,00,00,000
Tuesday – 19,00,00,000
Wednesday – 19,50,00,000
Thursday 27,50,00,000
Total – 1,80,25,00,000
The film has remained rock steady over the weekdays and should do record business in week two.
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December 25, 2014 at 10:43 PM
Great trending till now. If the movie continues on this scale, we should see new 2nd weekend & 2nd week records being made.
In which case this will be a serious contendor for the first 300 cr movie.
This also goes on to prove that good movies with a sealable star will always have the audience’s approval. Other top stars need to take notice, and stop dishing out mediocre movies.
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December 25, 2014 at 10:59 PM
Incredible numbers. Not surprisingly there isn’t any hysteria about the collections from all the usual sources from Nahta to BOI. The former didn’t even put up a tweet after day 1. BOI meanwhile have this ‘yeah it’s doing very well tone’! Meanwhile when it’s about some other stars they give hourly reports from Bihar or talk about 17th biggest openings and what not! This after saying expectations were huge because of 3I. LOL, they didn’t expect this!
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December 26, 2014 at 1:44 AM
I ran into a friend yesterday who still has not seen PK. He said that he has not seen/heard any news items about its BO, and was surprised when I mentioned that it had already crossed 150cr. So he questioned why the usual news sources (I did not bother to ask which ones he referred to) had not highlighted these numbers. Apparently people were overwhelmed by HNY’s announcements of having crossed 50, 100, 150 etc. And when the domestic got stuck at 170, they would tomtom their worldwide to cross 200, 250, etc. But no one shouting from rooftops about PK yet!
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December 25, 2014 at 11:45 PM
Interstellar’s box office total is $622,932,412 and counting. It is the eighth-highest-grossing film of the year and spawned an endless raft of think pieces testing the validity of its science and applauding the innovation of its philosophy. But it is not so new. The idea which propels the plot – there is a universal super-consciousness that transcends time and space in which all human life is connected – has been around for about 3,000 years. It is Vedic.
When the film’s astronaut hero (Matthew McConaughey), declares that the mysterious and all-knowing “they” who created a wormhole near Saturn through which he travels to save mankind – dissolving his sense of material reality in the process – are in fact “us” he is simply repeating the central notion of the Upanishads, India’s oldest philosophical texts. These hold that individual human minds are merely brief reflections within a cosmic one.
http://www.theguardian.com/film/2014/dec/25/movies-embraced-hinduism
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December 26, 2014 at 12:02 AM
@ Sanjana Has anyone hacked your account ? Satyam and his ilk will not forgive you for this blashphemy. Ask Utkal sir who has casigated because he liked Cocktail.
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December 26, 2014 at 3:56 AM
I have to see PK once again to enjoy the nuances.
I am extremely happy for the boxoffice reception of the film.
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December 26, 2014 at 1:43 AM
Superb Review by Great Bong ! Maza aa gaya-
First the climax was so god-awful that it made the baby-delivered-by-vacuum-cleaner in Three Idiots seem kind of okay.
Cycling through various expressions, “the-oh-my-God-I-had-no-idea” (“Apko police ne yeh kaha?”) as if he is hearing the guest’s story for the first time, “the-oh-my-God-I-so-feel-for-you” eyes-welling-up-with-tasteful-tears, Mr. Khan straddles perfectly that grey area between reality and choreography, between the person and the persona, and if the topic of the week does not keep you watching, or that sharp prick on your conscience if your finger goes to the remote control to change the channel, Aamir Khan’s performance sure does.
Hirani’s consciousness of “those who must not be angered” is perhaps most evident when PK, the alien, puts up signs of different Hindu Gods on a wall and, if I am not totally wrong there was also a picture of Jesus, but even PK knows, from news that might have reached him billions of light years away, that forget pictures there are some depictions of deities you do not put on walls, if you want to keep your head on your shoulders
http://greatbong.net/2014/12/25/pk-the-review/
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December 26, 2014 at 1:43 AM
Saw movie yesterday night with family.. everyone enjoyed.. Aamir acted very well.. never actually felt he was acting it was as if coming naturally to him.. also the 2nd half is not that bad as people are saying it to be.. it’s shorter than first half.. And Ranbir small cameo in the end didn’t make any good impression. he was not able to act as the character should be like Aamir.. overall nice time pass movie.. will not mind if i end up seeing it again…
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December 26, 2014 at 1:48 AM
Can we have a new BO thread? Ugly is getting rave reviews and being called best of Anurag kashyap.
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December 26, 2014 at 1:49 AM
Satyam.. do check latest comments are mixed some where in the middle of previous date comments.. do take a note of it and see if it can be fixed…
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December 26, 2014 at 2:21 AM
PK Sets All Time First Week Record
Friday 26 December 2014 09.30 IST
Box Office India Trade Network
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PK has set an all time record with collections of 180 crore nett plus in the first week. The film has not set first week records in all circuits but it has managed to gross 6-7 crore nett more in Mumbai circuit than Dhoom 3 and that is the main difference.
PK also ha a good lead over Dhoom 3 in West Bengal, Nizam / Andhra and Mysore but in Delhi/UP, Rajasthan, CP Berar, Tamil Nadu / Kerala, Assam and Orissa it is lower than Dhoom 3. The collections of PK and Dhoom 3 were similar in East Punjab while in CI, PK was a bit better.
The film has gone into week two with rock steady collections and no competition and it is the the 8th day figure which will give an idea to where the film can finally land up.
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December 26, 2014 at 4:37 AM
The second week has started well. It’s retaining large set of screens.
Can it do 100 crores in the second week? Outside chance for sure. Should be blasting past d3’s 65 crore by some margins.
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December 26, 2014 at 2:29 AM
And here are Jogi/Nahta trying to pad CE/HNY numbers, so predictable:
“With the kind of response that PK is gaining, it is now a given that this social-satirical affair would result as the biggest success of 2014, hence surpassing Salman Khan’s Kick [233 crore] and Shah Rukh Khan’s Happy New Year [203 crore]. Meanwhile, it would also go past the Chennai Express [227 crore].
The next big target though is Dhoom 3 which had managed 284 crore. ”
http://www.koimoi.com/box-office/pk-scores-heavily-on-christmas-beats-dhoom-3s-record-1st-week-box-office-collections/
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December 26, 2014 at 4:01 AM
http://www.boxofficeindia.com/Details/art_detail/uglyverydullopeningpkdominates#.VJ0jfFAk9Yo
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