This Friday sees the release of Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor starrer 102 Not Out. The film’s concept is interesting as it narrates the tale of a man who wants to be the longest living person on earth. The film’s promo made a decent mark and the reports so far indicate an entertainer in the offering. Moreover it is based on a successful play and filmmaker Umesh Shukla is expected to adapt it well for the big screen.
That said, from the overall follow through of the promo by means of extensive marketing, somehow one feels that the film would primarily be taking a word of mouth route. Though Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor are major actors, one can’t expect them to embark on a massive opening. Former’s Sarkar 3 hadn’t done well at all whereas latter’s Kapoor & Sons was a success though it featured other younger actors too. Hence, one can expect an opening in the range of Rs. 3 to 4 crores for the film and then wait for audience word of mouth to allow it a rise over the weekend.
As for Omertà, it is a niche affair for urban multiplex audience and hence would primarily be dependent on critical acclaim to find an audience. Hansal Mehta and Rajkummar Rao have made Shahid, Citylights and Aligarh together, each of which has found appreciation from critics though not much audience footfalls. One now waits to see if tables turn with Omertà. From the opening day perspective, even if it takes Rs. 1 crore start (on the same lines as Newton), it would be fair enough.
