Despite all the hype and hoopla, the much-hyped ‘Kalki 2898 AD is failing to draw big crowds in theatres and losing its steam. “Rajahmundry which is considered actor Prabha's domain is registering 40 to 50% occupancy in many theatres which is a bit alarming,” says a distributor, who claims the film is doing better in Hyderabad city and multiplexes and managed to collect Rs 70 crore plus share in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the last three days. “It is a good figure for any other hero, but expectations for Prabha movie are quite high and so they look minimal and not good enough,” he adds.
He claims that the sci-fi thriller has struck a chord with urban audiences and educated classes for its technical brilliance, but losing with other sections of the audience. “Urban audiences are patronizing the film in a big way and also educated class who watch Hollywood films are praising this film for its extravaganza, but it is to pick faster,” he points out.
Whereas, masses and family audiences are not turning up in big ways since a 3D film should have done that. “Family audience and children are key for a film to become a blockbuster but they are not turning up in big numbers, despite the visual spectacle in 3D has its unique standing and attraction. With B & C centers failing to draw more footfalls, the action-adventure is finding it hard to garner big collections,’ he concludes.
