Good Bad Ugly - Ajith Salary and Pre- Release biz details/ Akshay Kumar in Kathakali outfit

 tOTAL bUDGET IS rS 180 Cr and pre release has collected Rs 100 cr from theatres- Distributors. Ajith did not take Rs 167 cr as stated in some quarters. Producer Mythiri is releasing this film in Tamil Nadu and other States on a low key note. All the old reference songs will be in the film if Producer gives NOC from original makers. Around 2 minutes and 5 seconds of footage were trimmed. This includes the removal of close-up shots of smoking, while disclaimers were added for longer smoking scenes. Some violent visuals had the blood blurred out. Additionally, a sequence involving old Tamil songs required the makers to submit No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the original composers and producers.

.The final runtime of the film is 2 hours and 19 minutes—tighter than usual for a big-star action film.

GBU pre release business details

Budget- 180 cr

Ajith - 90 cr

Rest of cast and crew Remuneration- 25 cr

Production- 60 cr

Prints and Publicity- 5 cr

Theatrical Business

TN - 70 cr

TS- 5 cr

KA+ROI- 5 cr

OS - 20 cr

Total - 100 cr

Individual area targets -

TN

- 130 to 135 cr gross (Break even)

130 to 160 cr gross (HIT)

160 to 193 cr gross (Super hit)

194 +++× (Blockbuster)

Telugu states.

9 cr to 9.5 cr break even

9.5 to 11 cr HIT

11 cr to 13.5 cr gross Super Hit

13.5 cr ++++ Blockbuster

Karnataka+ROI

11 cr to 11.3 cr break even

11.3 to 13.5 cr HIT

13.5 to 16 cr Super Hit

16 cr ++++ Blockbuster

Overseas

38 to 40 cr gross - Break even

40 to 50 cr gross - HIT

50 to 60 cr gross- Super Hit

60 cr +++ - Blockbuster

Overall.

188 cr to 194 cr (Breakeven)

194 cr to 234 cr (HIT)

234 cr to 283 cr (Super HIT)

284 cr ++× (Blockbuster)

Akshay Kumar is stepping into the shoes of C Sankaran Nair in Kesari Chapter 2, a courtroom drama that dives deep into a powerful chapter of India’s fight for justice. The actor dropped a new poster on Instagram this Wednesday and it’s hard to miss. He appears in a full Kathakali avatar, complete with bold makeup, grand headgear, and a fierce expression.

 He wrote, “This is not a costume. It’s a symbol of tradition, of resistance, of truth, of my nation. C Sankaran Nair didn’t fight with a weapon. He fought the British Empire with the law and with fire in his soul. This 18th APRIL, we bring you the court trial they never taught in textbooks.”

Sun Pictures Makes Kodambakkam Proud / Dhanush in Banaras Locales

  RED LETTER DAY ; Goosebumps for all Cinema Lovers. Maran is his usual self - No fancy suits- diamond tie pins etc but his usual dress . Read the Studio Note

'Icon Star' Allu Arjun - Director Atlee - Sun Pictures - Pan World Cinema to be formed in collaboration

Indian film industry legends set to make a mark in Hollywood

A new Indian film that will be a global masterpiece

The official announcement of '#AA22xA6', a new film that will be a global masterpiece and a grander than any Indian film industry has ever seen, has been made in collaboration with 'Icon Star' Allu Arjun, who captured the attention of the international film industry with the film 'Pushpa' - leading star director Atlee, who captured the attention of the Indian film industry with the film 'Jawaan' - and the famous leading Indian film production company Sun Pictures.

An official announcement was made today about the untitled new film '#AA22xA6', which will be produced by Kalanithimaran's Sun Pictures and will star 'Icon Star' Allu Arjun, who has created a new historical record in the box office of Indian cinema with his sixth film 'Pushpa', directed by Atlee, who has made his debut as a director in the Tamil film industry and has continuously given blockbuster hits, and has achieved a collection of 1100 crores in Hindi cinema with the film 'Jawaan', and has become a director who has attracted the attention of the international film industry.

This film, which will bring together the three greats of Indian cinema, will be a world-class film made in India with international standards.

The film crew has stated that details about the actors, actresses, and technicians working in the film, which will be a global pan-world production, will be officially announced soon.

Sun Pictures is producing the film on a grand scale, on a huge budget, on a scale never seen before in the Indian film industry. Starring 'Icon Star' Allu Arjun, this new film, which will be director Atlee's #AA22xA6, is expected to create a new record not only in Indian cinema but also in the international film industry.

https://youtu.be/SI_PhNII7Mc?si=p6PqS0WIMcklQNei

After wrapping up a vibrant shoot schedule in Delhi, Rai’s upcoming film Tere Ishk Mein—hailed as the spiritual successor to Raanjhanaa—has moved to Banaras for its next leg. The film reunites Rai with Dhanush, this time pairing him with Kriti Sanon in a fresh, intense love story that promises to explore passion and heartbreak in equal measure.

Before the cameras rolled, Rai marked his return to the holy city with a visit to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, seeking blessings from Lord Shiva—capturing the moment on Instagram.

Alu Arjun - Atlee - Sai Abhyankkar ? / Sangeeth Sivan Romancham Hindi remake Ready

 

The latest social media sensation, Sai Abhyankkar, will compose the music for the film.starring Allu Arjun and directed by Atlee. Meanwhile, a video of Allu Arjun at Hyderabad airport on Friday has been making rounds on social media.  Arjun is said to have cometo Chennai for the promo shoot.Reports suggest that Sun Pictures will be solely producing the yet-to-be-titled film. Sun Pictures is said to unveil a video which will be a Global level project. However some reports say that Anirudh a Atlee favourite might be the music Director. The regular shooting will begin after two months, but the movie’s official announcement will be out on April 8. Allu Arjun’s friend and producer Bunny Vasu also mentioned that there will be a huge surprise on that day, hinting about this film Could it be another BIG Superstar joining the Project ?

Atlee made his Bollywood debut with Jawan, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, and Vijay Sethupathi. The film grossed over Rs 1,100 crore worldwide. Similarly, Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 shattered box office records, earning over Rs 1,800 crore in its lifetime. With two industry titans joining forces, their upcoming collaboration is expected to be nothing short of a cinematic spectacle.

Sangeeth Sivan was directing Kapkapiii, the Hindi remake of the Malayalam film Romancham at the time of his death. The much-awaited horror-comedy Kapkapiii, starring Shreyas Talpade and Tusshar Kapoor, is set to release in theatres on May 23. Directed by the late Sangeeth Sivan, famed for cult hits like Kya Kool Hain Hum and Apna Sapna Money Money, the film promises to blend spine-chilling moments with uproarious humor. Shreyas Talpade spoke about the film, saying, "As the name suggests, Kapkapiii is about those goosebumps you get just before fear takes over. It’s one of the best horror comedies I've seen, and Sangeeth Sivan ji's passion is evident in every frame. I miss him dearly. He was a father figure to me, with an incredible sense of filmmaking."

Tusshar Kapoor also reflected on his experience, noting, "The film’s setting feels very real, and the characters are incredibly relatable. The horror element centers around a Ouija board, something not often explored in Hindi cinema. Sangeeth ji allowed us the freedom to improvise within the script, which brought authenticity and depth to our performances. For me, it was a nostalgic reunion, especially after nearly 20 years since Kyaa Kool Hain Hum — it truly felt like a homecoming."

 

Rajinikanth Coolientiment and Record Telugu deal / Rajamouli- L3 Empuran title updates

 Jailer 2 release date has a flashback. In 1975 on August 15^th Rajinikant first film Apoorva Ragangal was releasd. Now in 50 year in filmdom, his 171 film release takes place on same date. The theatrical rights of Coolie in the Telugu states have reportedly been sold for 40 crores, creating a new benchmark for Tamil dubbed films.  Yesterday we had said that WAR 2 on same day with NTR Jr will not do any harm to Coolie in South States except two Telugu States but now trade feels that Coolie is the best bet than the Hindi dubbed.

Earlier Suriya’s Kanguva sold for 25 crores, Vijay’s Leo for 20 crores, and Rajini’s own Jailer for 17 crores were sold. This means Coolie needs to collect a minimum gross of 75-80 crores in Telugu to breakeven for the buyers . Read; https://southfilmy.blogspot.com/2025/04/coolieis-clear-winner-in-war-2-clash.html

Ashwin shared that Kalki 2 will delve deeper into the arcs of Karna and Ashwatthama, bringing these two mythologically rooted characters into the spotlight. He revealed that the sequel will primarily focus on these characters, giving both significantly more screen time  on Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan’s characters. In addition, Kamal Haasan’s mysterious character, Supreme Yaskin, will also be one of the major highlights of the sequel. While audiences only saw a glimpse of him in Kalki 2898 AD, the sequel will delve deeper into his dark persona.

Additionally, the sequel will involve heavy VFX work and elaborate world-building, which means post-production could take time. 

Rajamouli’s upcoming film SSMB 29, starring Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj Sukumaran, and Priyanka Chopra, has been making headlines ever since its announcement. While initial reports suggested that the movie would be a two-part spectacle, fresh updates reveal that Rajamouli has opted for a single-film narrative. The film, set against the backdrop of Kashi, is a high-octane forest adventure that promises to push the boundaries of Indian cinema. With production already underway, the team has an extensive shooting schedule planned until mid-2026, aiming for a grand release in the summer of 2027.

Renowned composer Deepak Dev has sparked speculation about the title of the much-anticipated third installment in the Lucifer trilogy, starring Mohanlal, following his recent revelations in an exclusive interview with Club FM. Deepak Dev, known for his distinctive musical contributions to Malayalam cinema, hinted that “Azrael” could potentially be the title for Lucifer Part 3. The speculation arises from a pivotal song in the climax of Empuraan, the second part of the trilogy, featuring the resonant vocals of Usha Uthup repeating the word “Azrael.”

In the interview, Deepak Dev reflected on the creative process behind the trilogy’s titles, noting that similar organic developments occurred with the naming of Empuraan after a significant song in the first installment, Lucifer. He recalled discussions with director Prithviraj Sukumaran, who sought a commanding voice for the song, which inadvertently led to the title reveal for the subsequent film.

Coolieis clear winner in WAR 2 clash / Trouble for Ajith film Kerala release ? Prithviraj Income tax notice not for Empuran

 Coolie has nothing to lose by clashing with WAR 2 on August 15^th. For one, Coolie budget does not make it very necessary for it cash in on North Indian markets like WAR 2. The overseas Tamil market and to agreat extent Telugu markets will still plump for Coolie as everybody wants to see what magic has Lokesh created for Thalaivar as he did for Kamal and Vijay. Thirdly the film WAR 2 will not create any much hoopla that a Hindi film has in South and NTR Jr is no Bunny – Prabhas who has a Pan South preence. So WAR2 with Hrithik Roshan who is not around for a long time, is the loser as NTR Jr tag will help only in two Telugu States. Here gain Coolie has Nagarjuna to take care of the Tollywood and Upendra for Sandalwood. Both have  extended cameos.

Good Bad Ugly Kerala Distribution is with Gokulam Gopalan and his house- offices across all States have been raided and so will he be able to distribute it or hand it over to some body ? GBU trailor was good as I liked the from the early 90s, and 2K decade of movies.  Simran in particular I liked as I remembered Vaali. GBU is likely to be first Tamil movie to enjoy the proposed Enterainment tax cut from 8 to 4 %. But another threat looms large, evening shows hereafter will go towards IPL matches, if regulation is passed.

If you think Prithviraj got an Income tax notice for Empuran , No, it is for three other movies that he acted but did not take any money and instead pocketed profits as co- producer. Prithviraj appeared in three movies as the lead—Gold, Jana Gana Mana, and Kaduva. He took Rs 40 crore and Tax guys wants the profir breakups. For Empuran, he said that he and Mohanlal have not taken any money and now as they are co- producer, they will get the share of profits. Tax guys will revisit that later. Now if Vaiko and O Paneerselvam’s demands are to be met , then the dialogue that Travancore King gave land for Mullaperiyar to British under thret has to be cut out. 28^th cut ?

Indian 3 starts / LYCA- RAJINIKANTH _ PRITHVIRAJ combo ? . Empuran out of IMAX/ CHIYAAN BACK

 Kamal Haasan – Shankar and Lyca have agreed to complete the remaining portions of Indian 3 on a tight budget . Shankar has dropped the idea to shoot a song and instead just do what is needed to get the film ready for release. Without the song , it needs 30 days shoot and pre- production for this schedule is on.

Lyca is to collaborate with Rajinikanth and from what we hear is that Prithviraj is on Director’s list. In an exclusive chat with News18 Showsha, Prithviraj reveals that he didn’t have to urge Rajinikanth to extend his support to the film. “When I went to his home in Chennai and showed him the trailer, I didn’t ask him to tweet it. When I came back, Soundarya called me and said that appa would like to tweet the trailer and asked me if I can send them the link," he told the channel.

Lyca who pulled out of Empuran has no ill feelings with the Director and it was a financial decision to pull out and nothing personal. Prithviraj is co-producer of Empuran along with Mohanlal. Lal Salaam produced by Lyca is finally coming on OTT. Only project on hand is Jason Sanjay’s film.

Empuran is likely to be out of IMAX screens in India as to redit the film to put in the 20 off censor cuts will cost Rs 43 lakhs. After one week run and declining collection, Producers may not put in this money. After 7 days Empuran in Kerala has collected Rs 73 cr Nett and in Tamil – Rs2.64 cr, Telugu -Rs 2.34 cr and Rs 0.19 cr . The Malayalam version has collected Rs 10 crore in Karntaka and mainly from Bengaluru. Overseas Nett is Rs 30 crore.

Worldwide	India Net	India Gross	Overseas	Verdict
₹ 122 Cr	₹ 83.73 Cr	₹ 92 Cr	₹ 30 Cr	None

Vikram’s Veera Dheera Sooran 2 despite good reviews is moving towards an average hit. It was predicted that the film will be a modest hit and be a relief after Thangalan disaster. The films collection for Day 1 was lost over a fight between Producers and those who bought the OTT. Vikram had charged Rs 30 crores but it was both parts. There was no need for Vikram or S J Suryah to shell out any money for the film release.

Film has collected Rs 27 crores in Tamil Nadu and overseas Rs 7 crores. The on road promotions by Chiyaan even after release has be an eyeopener to many. It is still holding good with Rs 2 crore on Day 7. Till Good Bad and Ugly arrives, it can rope in more money. Chiyyan core Kerala area became inaccessible with Empuran wave. Telugu saw two straight releases and one- Mad Square went on to be  a blockbuster.

Pranav Mohanlal in Empuran sequel / Nayanthara with Yash in Mumbai / Sivakarthikeyan Maaveeran in Japan

L3 Empuran is definitely coming and it will have Pranav Mohanlal as the young Stephen Nedumpally. At the cclose of L2 we were were told that the sequel is going to be about the youthful days of Stephen and it would be created with effects etc was our belief. Prithviraj who shunned green mat route to create foreign locales and visited them to get the real feel is now coming with Mohanlal’s son instead. This would be a MASS moment for Lal fans no doubt. The third part is the war with Chinese Mafia v/s Khureshi .

Out of Rs 78 crores net in India, Rs 71 crores comes from Kerala box office alone in 6 days. From day one L2: Empuraan collected $2.45 million (₹20.93 crore) in the Gulf – the highest single day collection for any Indian film in the region. In 5 days it has gone past $7.86 million leaving Leo ($6.75M) and Jailer ($6.53M) behind. It collected $6.59 million in the opening weekend and $8 million in the UAE in 6 days. Its total overseas collection has already crossed $15 million and is a global blockbuster.

Fresh updates reveal that Nayanthara is all set to join KGF 2 actor on se of xic: A Fairytale for Grown Ups.. As reported earlier, she plays his sister in the film. We have learnt that she will arrive in the city tomorrow and start filming at Madh Island. The team has built a massive 70s-themed set for this segment. This follows the recently wrapped shoot at Colaba Church with Yash and Tara Sutaria. It is being shot in both Kannada and English and becomes the first Indian film to achieve this milestone. The cast also includes Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, and international actors. Yash is co-producing the film and actively shaping its development. 

   Sivakarthikeyan’s Maaveeran will be releasing in Japan this year. Despite receiving positive response during release time in India, it only became an above average success with struggling to reach 100 crores (it touched only 85 crores). So now due to its release in Japan, it might reach 100 crores and therefore becoming 4th film for SK