Despite less screen count, Amitabh Bachchan-Anupam Kher starrer Uunchai off to decent start at box office

Ace filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, known for iconic films like Hum Aapke Hai Koun, and Maine Pyar Kiya among others, released his next Uunchai on November 11. He marked 75 years of Rajshri Production by presenting an inspirational drama starring Amitabh Bachchan , Anupam Kher , Boman Irani, Neena Gupta, and Sarika. While Danny Denzongpa has a special appearance in the movie. Despite a senior star cast and limited screen count, the movie has opened fairly well at the box office.

On Saturday, trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared the box office collections and predictions of Unnchai on his Instagram account. He stated that despite only 483 screen releases, with limited shows, the movie did unexpectedly well. “Limited screens [483]… Limited shows [2 to 4 shows per day at prime properties]…Yet, #Uunchai finds its share of audience… Decent Day 1… Fares much, much better than most mid-range films with higher screen count + shows… Fri ₹ 1.81 cr. #India biz.” The first-day collection is as per the expected lines as an opening of 1.50-2 crores was on the cards. Also read: Amitabh Bachchan pleads fans to go watch his film Uunchai, says 'nobody is going to the theatres' 

Further, the trade analyst added, “Like #MainePyarKiya and #HAHK, #Rajshri has decided to release #Uunchai in phase-wise manner at centres/cinemas where the film hasn’t released yet… The word of mouth is positive, but the showcasing is restricted in Week 1, which will gradually increase in the coming weeks, sic.” Barjatya refrained from releasing Uunchai on maximum screens and opted for a phase-wise release. With Uunchai, he returned to the director’s chair after eight years. His last directorial was Salman Khan’s Prem Ratan Dhan Aayo in 2016.

Talking about Uunchai, the film also marks Barjatya’s first collaboration with Amitabh and Boman. The film revolves around three friends in their 60s who go on a mission to scale Mount Everest in order to fulfill the last wish of their fourth friend who died unexpectedly. Meanwhile, it is expected that the film’s collection will gain momentum due to positive word-of-mouth.