Yesterday, the movie Bellbottom was finally released after being highly promoted and publicized. It had an excellent run in theaters due to Covid-19 laws which keep new ones from opening up for so long – though some theaters were not ready to open at all yet. But despite this, the production was able to make a decent profit of approximately ₹2.75 crores (US$386,000) on its first day out. Considering how Bellbottom is the first major release since Covid-19’s second phase began – it is estimated to do even worse than another movie called ‘Roohi’ or ‘Everest’ did before it; however, these estimations may change come Saturday depending on what people think about the film’s prospects going forward.
This slow opening is being attributed to the fact that key markets are still shut, especially Maharashtra which usually contributes 30% to a film’s collection. With this circumstance coupled with the Working Weekday release of the movie; the fear and apprehension from audiences coming out due to crowded public areas; low-key buzz; lack of advertisement; and Covid-19 restrictions which prevents theatrical capacity from exceeding 100 people at a time, it has been difficult for Bellbottom to succeed in its first week. Pre-weekend estimates say it could bring about Rs. 15 Cr. during its first week because Saturday and Sunday fall on celebratory occasions during Onam (a Hindu holiday celebrating harvest) and Rakshabandha (Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Rama).
