Date: December 09, 2024
Pushpa 2: The Rule’s Underwhelming Performance in Kerala
Pushpa 2: The Rule: A Surprising Box Office Struggle in Kerala
Allu Arjun’s massive fanbase in Kerala, built over the years through hits like Happy, Arya 2, Race Gurram, and especially Pushpa: The Rise, couldn’t prevent his latest film, Pushpa 2: The Rule, from underperforming in the state. Despite strategic promotions and localized appeal, the movie failed to meet expectations at the Kerala box office.
Opening Day Collections Fall Short in Kerala
The sequel grossed approximately ₹6 crore on its opening day in Kerala, a significant miss compared to the anticipated ₹10 crore. The situation worsened on the second day, with collections dropping by nearly 50%, raising doubts about the film’s longevity in the region.
Disconnect with Malayalam Audience Preferences
While the film’s mass-action style and commercial elements resonated with audiences in Telugu-speaking regions and North India, it struggled to appeal to Kerala’s cine-goers, who typically favor content-driven narratives and realistic storytelling. The high-octane action sequences and formulaic approach that worked elsewhere seemed less effective in this market.
Fahadh Faasil’s Underwhelming Role
Malayalam actor Fahadh Faasil, who plays a pivotal role in the Pushpa franchise, had limited screen time and a less impactful presence in the sequel. Fans who were excited to see the continuation of his character arc from Pushpa: The Rise expressed disappointment over the lack of depth in his role, which may have contributed to the film’s lukewarm reception.
Mixed Reception from Audiences
The film opened to a divided response in Kerala. While some praised Allu Arjun’s performance and the production values, others criticized the predictable storyline and exaggerated action sequences. This contrast in audience perception has affected the film’s ability to sustain momentum in the state.
Hope for Recovery
Despite the slow start, Pushpa 2: The Rule still has a chance to recover at the Kerala box office. The lack of major Malayalam releases until late December could provide the breathing space needed to gain traction through positive word-of-mouth.
Additionally, the film’s widespread popularity in other regions may drive some curiosity among Malayalam audiences, potentially boosting footfalls over the coming weekend
While Pushpa 2: The Rule has achieved significant success in other regions, its performance in Kerala highlights the state’s unique cinematic preferences. The film’s struggles serve as a reminder of the importance of tailoring content to diverse audience sensibilities.
All eyes are now on the film’s weekend collections to see if it can make a turnaround in this challenging market. Stay tuned for more updates on its box office journey!