As 2024 winds down, the film industry reflects on a lukewarm year marked by few standout hits. While box-office triumphs were sparse, the second-half of the year offered a glimmer of hope, courtesy to the roaring success of films like ‘Stree 2’ and ‘Pushpa 2’.
Pan-India films continued to dominate, becoming the audience’s go-to choice. Unlike earlier times when films were confined to regional appeal, 2024 witnessed several cross-language blockbusters stealing the limelight. These films bridged cultural divides, uniting cinephiles across the nation.
Here’s a list of six films that not just broke the collection records but also redefined the dynamics of the box office:
Pushpa 2: The Rule
The sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Pushpa: The Rise, Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna’s Pushpa 2: The Rule redefined success in 2024. With a production budget of Rs 400 crore, the film has already crossed Rs 1,500 crore worldwide, and its earnings continue to soar as it plays in theaters. Featuring an ensemble cast including Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, and Anasuya Bharadwaj, the film expanded on its predecessor’s gripping narrative and solidified its place as the year’s cinematic giant.
Kalki 2898 AD
Blending mythology with futuristic storytelling, Kalki 2898 AD enthralled audiences with its visual grandeur and compelling performances. Grossing Rs 1,042 crore globally, it claimed the second spot on the list. With Rs 767 crore earned in India, this sci-fi epic demonstrated the growing appetite for innovative storytelling in Indian cinema.
Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank
Comedy and horror seamlessly intertwined in Stree 2, a sequel to the 2018 hit. Starring Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, the film grossed Rs 857.15 crore worldwide, with Rs 713.15 crore coming from India. Directed by Amar Kaushik, it featured stellar performances by Abhishek Banerjee and Pankaj Tripathi. Tamannaah Bhatia’s dance number “Aaj Ki Raat” became a hit, adding to the film’s mass appeal.
Devara Part 1
NT Rama Rao Jr led this action-drama that grossed Rs 422.1 crore globally, despite mixed reviews. With Janhvi Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan in pivotal roles, Devara portrayed the journey of a son secretly fulfilling his late father’s legacy. The Telugu song “Chuttamalle” became a viral sensation, contributing to the film’s popularity.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
The latest installment in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise became Kartik Aaryan’s career-defining film, earning Rs 389.27 crore globally. Directed by Anees Bazmee, the film brought back Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan, who shared screen space with newcomers Triptii Dimri and Kartik. With a legacy dating back to 2007, the franchise continues to evolve and delight audiences.
The Greatest of All Time (GOAT)
Thalapathy Vijay’s GOAT was a thrilling blend of action and sci-fi, directed by Venkat Prabhu. Earning Rs 457.12 crore globally, this Tamil blockbuster wowed fans with its ambitious storytelling and action-packed sequences. Co-starring Prabhu Deva, Sneha and Meenakshi Chaudhary, the film cemented its position as one of the year’s most entertaining ventures.
