Nani’s latest action thriller, *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram*, directed by Vivek Athreya, has been receiving mixed signals in terms of its box office performance. Despite being well-received by both the masses and critics for its unique vigilante justice theme and gripping performances by Nani and SJ Suryah, the film is struggling to recover its substantial budget.
As of its 28-day theatrical run, the film has managed to gross approximately ₹94.85 crore worldwide, which includes an India net collection of around ₹61.5 crore and an overseas collection of ₹25.25 crore.
However, with a production budget of ₹80-90 crore, the film still falls short of fully recovering its costs. It needs around ₹19 crore more to break even, a target that seems increasingly challenging given the current pace of collections.
OTT Release
Amidst the box office struggles, *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram* is set to make its OTT debut on Netflix on September 26, 2024. This move is expected to expand the film’s audience and boost its overall earnings, as digital releases have become a crucial revenue stream for films post-pandemic.
Netflix has reportedly acquired the digital rights for a substantial ₹45 crore, indicating the film’s potential for significant viewership on the platform.
Critical and Public Reception
Despite the financial challenges, *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram* has garnered positive reviews for its intense performances and captivating concept. Nani’s portrayal of Surya, an ordinary insurance agent who transforms into a vigilante on Saturdays, has been particularly praised. The film’s equation between Surya and other characters, including his family and potential girlfriend, has been noted for providing a deep insight into his psyche.
SJ Suryah’s performance as Dayanand, a police officer known for his oppressive tactics, has also been commended for adding depth to the narrative.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The film faced significant competition from other Telugu releases and Bollywood films during the same period, which fragmented the audience and slowed down its pace toward hitting the ₹100 crore milestone. The weekday collections dropped sharply from the second week onward, although the film had a few weekend surges.
As the theatrical run nears its end, the OTT release is expected to provide a new lease of life for the film. The digital platform will allow *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram* to reach a broader audience and generate additional revenue, cementing its status as one of Nani’s top-grossing movies.
Conclusion
While *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram* may not have achieved the ₹100 crore mark at the box office, it has still proven to be a commercial success and a notable addition to Nani’s filmography. The film’s unique theme, intense performances, and engaging storyline have resonated well with audiences, particularly in the Telugu-speaking regions and overseas markets.
As it transitions to its digital release, *Saripodhaa Sanivaaram* is poised to continue gaining viewers and generating more revenue, solidifying Nani’s position as one of Telugu cinema’s most bankable stars.
