Was Re-Releasing Baahubali: The Beginning A Good Idea?

Baahubali released back on 10^th July 2015. It came and took the Indian cinema by storm. Suddenly the entire nation had just one question to ask- “Katappa ne Baahubali ko kyu maara”?

As funny as it may seem, the film got a stellar commercial success. Right from its grand sets or the spectacular animation, everything was bang on. It bagged several awards at all the award functions and also went on to win the National Award for Best Special effects.

It took 2 years and the second installment of the film will finally be releasing this month. The question on why Katappa killed Baahubali will be answered. But then there are people like me who had given Baahubali: The Beginning a miss. Yes, you guys might laugh but I think there will be more like me out there. And for those, the makers have made an absolutely brilliant strategy- Baahubali: The Beginning re-released yesterday throughout the country at 1000 cinema halls.

The strategy of re-release- is it a new concept?

Well, you would be surprised to know but Bollywood movies used to re-release in theatres. No we are not talking about Mughal-E-Azam that was re-released a colour feature film. Back in the 70s, the number of films made was relatively much lower. As a result, films that were well received at the box-office would often be re-released for audiences to go and see once again. That would be a good dose of entertainment. This trend continued well till the 90s. 90s was the time that more modern equipments began to come in the scene, more people got into the industry and there was a sudden boom. The number of movies releasing became significantly higher and this trend faded away.

Was re-releasing Baahubali: The Beginning a good decision?

Well, Baahubali received an overwhelming response. It smashed box office records. Everyone was talking about it. And then there were a few like me who missed it.

Now that it re-released, it presents a great scope for people like us to catch up. People who had missed it earlier will be flocking the cinema halls so that they do not miss out on Baahubali: The Conclusion.

The other factor working here is that owing to the spectacular animation and special effects, it will be a treat to watch the movie on the big screen. Don’t you think ardent fans will actually flock to watch this?

Loss or Gain?

Well, with no major releases this weekend, this might definitely pull in more crowd. Also the IPL season might affect the number of people watching the movie, but even if few people turn up, that will also prove beneficial for the producers.

Will it make re-releasing a trend again?

If the business turns humungous, producers of other hit movies might think about re-re;easing a movie. But in all probabilities, this trend would not start since new movies release every weekend, and in some movies clash at the box-office!

What is your take on the trend?