Dhurandhar Joins Elite Club With Post-Midnight Shows in Mumbai
The latest blockbuster, Dhurandhar, has achieved a major milestone in its theatrical run. It has joined a very short list of hit films that have triggered the scheduling of post-midnight and early morning shows due to overwhelming audience demand. This trend has become a key indicator of a film’s box office power in the post-pandemic era.
A New Benchmark for Box Office Success
In recent years, the practice of adding shows after 12:00 AM has evolved from a rarity to a strategic move. It signals that a film has captured the public’s imagination so strongly that fans are willing to watch it in the middle of the night. This trend started with Sooryavanshi in 2021, which helped bring audiences back to cinemas. Since then, only the biggest hits have earned this privilege.
Major successes like Pathaan, Jawan, and Animal have all had late-night screenings. Even Hollywood giants like Oppenheimer and Avatar: The Way of Water have seen similar demand in India. The addition of Dhurandhar to this list places it among the highest-grossing films of recent times. For investors and industry analysts, these showtimes are more than just screenings. They are a real-time measure of a movie’s earning potential and cultural impact.
Mumbai Theatres Respond to Unprecedented Demand
As of Thursday evening, at least six major theatres in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have scheduled special overnight shows for this Saturday. The most aggressive schedule comes from Maxus Cinema in Bhayandar. It will host an incredible eight shows between 12:45 AM and 6:15 AM. Another location, Maxus Borivali, has scheduled four shows during the same overnight period.
The demand is not limited to standard formats. Eros Cinema has added a 6:00 AM IMAX show, catering to fans seeking a premium early-morning experience. Other prominent chains like PVR and Inox are also participating. Many theatres have shows starting just before midnight, which will effectively begin in the early hours of the morning. This widespread scheduling across the city highlights the film’s broad appeal.
What This Means for the Film Industry
This phenomenon represents a significant shift in cinema exhibition strategy. Theatres are now maximizing their assets by keeping screens open around the clock for proven hits. This generates extra revenue from existing infrastructure. It also creates a buzz that fuels further ticket sales. For a producer, these shows are a strong sign of a film’s profitability and longevity in theatres.
The success of Dhurandhar, following major hits like Stree 2, demonstrates the robust health of the theatrical business. It shows that audiences are eager to experience major event films in a communal setting, regardless of the hour. This trend provides a reliable model for studios. They can now plan for extended and unconventional showtimes for their biggest projects, knowing the audience will come.
A Clear Signal for Investors
For investors watching the entertainment sector, these operational decisions are critical data points. When cinemas invest in staffing and security for overnight shows, they are betting on sold-out seats. The financial performance of Dhurandhar is now being amplified by this extended playing time. Its placement alongside proven blockbusters is a strong positive indicator.
The announcement of a sequel, set for a major release date in 2026, further solidifies the franchise’s potential. The current box office performance, evidenced by these unusual showtimes, builds a solid foundation for future installments. In a competitive market, Dhurandhar has proven it can command audience attention and drive exceptional theatrical revenue.
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