Mid-budget films script box office recovery across languages

Mid-budget films across Hindi, Tamil and Telugu languages are scripting a strong box-office recovery, dispelling the belief that audiences have shifted entirely to streaming platforms. Recent releases such as Awarapan 2 (Hindi), DC (Tamil) and Chennai Love Story (Telugu) have grossed between Rs 59 crore and Rs 100 crore, while being made on budgets of Rs 15-50 crore. The success comes even as Hollywood spectacles like The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day dominate theatres.

Industry figures told ET that audiences are now drawn to strong narratives, emotional connection and realism rather than escapist fare. Producers noted that post-pandemic viewers have developed a taste for horror and realistic stories, a shift being fulfilled by mid-budget films. They also said that streaming platforms have made audiences more selective, not anti-theatrical, and that the craving for community experience is bringing viewers back to cinema halls.