Thu Dec 26 13:56:32 UTC 2024: **Varun Dhawan’s “Baby John” Opens to Mixed Reception, Earns ₹16.5 Crore Worldwide**
MUMBAI, INDIA – Varun Dhawan’s latest film, “Baby John,” opened to a mixed response on Christmas Day, grossing ₹16.5 crore worldwide on its first day. While marking Dhawan’s biggest opening in five years, surpassing his 2019 film “Kalank,” the action-thriller faces stiff competition from the ongoing success of Allu Arjun’s “Pushpa 2: The Rule.”
In India, “Baby John” raked in ₹11.25 crore net (₹13.5 crore gross), achieving a 24.97% occupancy rate. Evening shows proved most popular, reaching 30.89% occupancy.
The film, a remake of the Tamil film “Theri,” stars Dhawan alongside Keerthy Suresh and Wamiqa Gabbi, with Jackie Shroff, Rajpal Yadav, and a cameo by Salman Khan. Directed by Kalees and produced by Atlee, the movie follows a cop who must confront his past to protect his daughter.
However, critics have offered a less enthusiastic response. Hindustan Times’ review criticized the film’s choppy start and lack of soul, noting a lack of direction and describing the plot as a mish-mash. The review also pointed out similarities to Atlee’s previous work, “Jawan.”
Despite the mixed reviews and strong competition, “Baby John” managed a respectable opening day collection, demonstrating a level of audience appeal for the Bollywood star. The film’s long-term box office performance remains to be seen.
First Piper 