Year 2023 witnessed some interesting releases that elicited amazing responses from the audience. They were not big-ticket, ambitious releases. A few of them were thought to be fated to flop at the box-office. Yet, they went on to defy doomsday predictions and became hits or wowed the audience with their unique content.
Virupaksha:
Directed by second-time filmmaker Karthik Varma Dandu, the film grossed more than Rs 100 Cr. Screenplay-writer Sukumar (yes, the 'Pushpa' maker) was credited with changing the climax, thereby altering the whole screenplay. The biggest hit in Sai Dharam Tej's career, it had Samyuktha Menon in an author-backed role. A couple of jumpscares and Ajaneesh B Loknath's excellent score contributed to its immense success.
Baby:
A polarizing film, it was ridiculed by social media-savvy cine-goers but was lapped up without reservations by a majority of the audience. Director Sai Rajesh's triangular love story, which was politically incorrect and emotionally somewhat uneven (especially in the pre-climax phase), grossed Rs 90 Cr despite its allegedly problematic ending. Starring Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya as the lead pair, it was a rare romantic drama with the maximum number of scenes for its female lead.
Dasara:
Directed by newcomer Srikanth Odela, this film exceeded all conventional expectations by taking humongous openings. Starring Nani and Keerthy Suresh in lead roles, the action drama was far from perfect. But the aesthetics, the raw performances and a stunning trailer cut made a lot of difference.
Balagam:
Released amid no expectations that it would become a solid hit, the film created a new trend. Its pre-releaser previews in different towns in the Telugu States helped Dil Raju Productions create organic buzz. Director Venu Yeldandi's story and treatment gave the producers/distributors profits many times the investment.
Samajavaragamana:
This humble outing was a pleasant surprise of sorts. Sree Vishnu and presenter Anil Sunkara enjoyed an unexpected range of success with this family comedy that went on to become a huge money-spinner. This is also one of the most popular VK Naresh movies in more than 20 years.
Hi Nanna:
The film had a comparatively weak buzz going for it, especially compared to Nani's previous release 'Dasara'. Yet, in the US and Nizam, the musical family drama became an instant hit, with the show count going up after the first day. Mrunal Thakur and Baby Kiara Khanna, composer Heshabm Abdul Wahab and debutant director Shouryuv received critical acclaim.
Sir:
Director Venky Atluri was not in form after delivering two flops. Yet, this Dhanush-starrer defied all expectations despite its lead man being a non-Telugu actor. Dhanush's performance, the emotional beats, and Sithara Entertainments' release strategy made 'Sir' a hit.
Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty:
This film looked to be losing its sheen after repeated postponements. Naveen Polishetty was on a hat-trick and he delivered a hit. Anushka Shetty's dry spell ended with this sensible, healthy comedy dealing with a sensitive issue. Importantly, UV Creations laughed its way to the bank.
