December 21, 2024: As 2024 draws to a close, BookMyShow’s year-end report has revealed the most compelling entertainment trends, with Pushpa 2 and small-budget films making a huge impact on audiences and box offices alike. From record-breaking sequels to the resurgence of beloved classics, the year showcased a diverse cinematic landscape that resonated with viewers across genres.
Pushpa 2 Shatters Records and Tops the Charts; Small Films Prove Their Worth in BookMyShow’s Year-End Review
One of the most significant revelations of the year is the immense success of Pushpa 2: The Rule, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2021 sensation Pushpa: The Rise. Directed by Sukumar and starring Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil, and Rashmika Mandanna, Pushpa 2 became the undisputed leader of 2024’s cinematic releases, attracting an impressive 10.8 lakh solo viewers. This figure propelled the film to the top of BookMyShow’s list of most-watched films, surpassing other major titles like Stree 2, Singham Again, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
Released on December 5 in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali, and Malayalam, the movie made history by becoming only the third Indian film ever to cross the ₹1500 crore mark at the global box office. Pushpa 2 also set a new benchmark for Indian cinema, recording the highest-ever opening day in Indian film history with a staggering 31 lakh tickets sold just in advance bookings.
Record-Breaking Days and Classic Film Re-releases
BookMyShow’s report also highlighted an extraordinary day for the platform: November 1. The company sold a record-breaking 2.3 million tickets in a single 24-hour period, underscoring the ongoing surge in audience interest for live entertainment and films.
In another interesting trend, older movies have found new life on the big screen through re-releases, providing nostalgic experiences for moviegoers. Classics like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Tumbbad, Rockstar, and Laila Majnu transported audiences back in time, proving the enduring appeal of beloved titles.
Hollywood and Small-Budget Films Thrived
The report also noted the success of high-profile Hollywood franchise films such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Dune: Part Two, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire. These titles kept the global box office buzzing with thrilling action and compelling narratives.
Not to be overlooked, smaller-budget films also made a significant impact this year. Movies like Aavesham, Laapaata Ladies, and Merry Christmas resonated deeply with audiences, proving that authentic and heartfelt storytelling can triumph regardless of a film’s budget.
The Big Picture: 2024’s Cinematic Landscape
As 2024 comes to an end, BookMyShow’s year-end report paints a picture of a thriving entertainment landscape marked by record-breaking films, diverse genres, and a healthy appetite for both big-budget blockbusters and intimate, low-budget narratives. The year has demonstrated that the Indian film industry continues to evolve, with audiences showing increasing support for both local and international releases. As we head into 2025, these trends are likely to shape the future of cinema and live entertainment in India.
