The Kannada film industry is gearing up for an epic box office battle as two of its most anticipated movies, Kiccha Sudeep’s Max and Upendra’s UI, release just days apart. While UI is slated to hit screens on December 20, 2024, Max is set to follow on December 25, leveraging the Christmas holiday advantage.
Why UI Is Highly Anticipated
UI marks the return of Upendra as a director after nearly a decade, his last being Uppi 2 in 2015, which grossed over ₹40–45 crore and became the highest-grossing Kannada film of that year. Known for his unique storytelling and thought-provoking narratives, Upendra’s directorial ventures always generate significant buzz among fans and movie buffs alike.
Moreover, UI promises groundbreaking visuals, including a unique cityscape created with extensive VFX, a whopping 1,400 VFX shots and cutting-edge technologies like VR-Mocobot. The film’s multilingual release strategy and Upendra’s established fan base outside Karnataka, especially in Telugu-speaking states, add to its pan-India appeal.
The Challenge for Max
While Max benefits from Kiccha Sudeep’s immense stardom and the Christmas holiday boost, the film’s screen count might face stiff competition from UI. If UI receives positive reviews and sustains momentum in its initial days, it could dominate the screen space and audience attention.
On the other hand, Max brings its own strengths to the table. Directed by debutant Vijay Karthikeyaa, the film promises a gripping action thriller with a stellar cast and music by the talented B. Ajaneesh Loknath. The Christmas release timing could attract a wider audience, making it a potential box office hit despite the clash.
Day 1 and Lifetime Collection Predictions
As per current trends:
- Day 1 Collections:
- UI could collect around ₹15 crore on its opening day, given the hype surrounding Upendra’s directorial comeback.
- Max might match this figure due to Sudeep’s star power and the holiday advantage but its performance will largely depend on UI’s reception in the preceding days.
- Lifetime Collections:
- If UI garners positive reviews, it could rake in ₹100–120 crore, leveraging its appeal across multiple states.
- Max is projected to collect around ₹70–90 crore but a higher figure is possible if it gains strong word-of-mouth.
This December, Kannada cinema is poised to dominate the Indian box office with Max and UI. While the competition might divide audiences, it’s also a testament to the growing appeal and ambition of Sandalwood films. Whether the box office belongs to Kiccha Sudeep, Upendra or both, one thing is certain: fans are in for a cinematic treat this festive season.