Kochi: Kerala’s movie theatres are witnessing a resurgence as Onam releases Lokah and Hridayapoorvam have crossed significant box office milestones within just a week of release. Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, starring Kalyani Priyadarshan, joined the Rs 100 crore club, becoming the first Malayalam film with a female lead to achieve this feat, while Hridayapoorvam, featuring the Mohanlal-Sathyan Anthikkad duo, crossed Rs 50 crore.
Theatres buzzing with audiences
According to K Vijayakumar, president of the Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK), the positive reception of both films has led to a surge in screens and shows. “Theatres are packed, even for night shows. Due to the demand, even smaller theatres are staging at least five shows daily,” he said.
Liberty Basheer, a local theatre owner, noted that the films are attracting diverse audiences. “Youngsters are coming multiple times to watch Lokah, while family audiences prefer Hridayapoorvam. As a superhero film, Lokah has generated significant excitement. Mollywood needs films like these to draw crowds,” he added.
Other Onam releases
This Onam saw the release of two other Malayalam films: Odum Kuthira, Chaadum Kuthira, starring Fahadh Faasil and Kalyani, and Hridhu Haroon’s Maine Pyaar Kiya. However, according to Basheer, Odum Kuthira, Chaadum Kuthira has not met audience expectations, despite being highly anticipated.
Impact on Mollywood
Vijayakumar pointed out that Kerala cinemas have been struggling in recent months due to a lack of hits. “Thudarum was the last superhit Malayalam film. Films like Lokah are essential to revive theatres and bring audiences back,” he said.
Basheer also highlighted the importance of festival releases, saying, “During Onam, films generally perform better. Families and youngsters take advantage of the holidays to watch movies, and it’s common to see at least one film become a success each season.”
With Lokah on track to potentially surpass the collection records of Mohanlal’s Thudarum, industry insiders believe that this festive season could mark a turnaround for Malayalam cinema’s box office fortunes.