Hrithik Roshan's much-anticipated film, "Fighter," directed by Siddharth Anand, is gradually gaining altitude at the Indian box office after a slightly underwhelming opening day. The mega-budget production showcased its potential on the auspicious occasion of Republic Day, experiencing a substantial surge in advance bookings, nearly reaching the 14 crore mark in pre-sales.
Despite the grand scale of the film, "Fighter" faced a slower start than anticipated, grossing an estimated 22-24 crores on its opening day. For a film of such magnitude, surpassing the 35 crore mark on the first day would have been more ideal. However, there is optimism in the air as the film gears up for better numbers in the days to come.
"Fighter" is not just a patriotic tale but, at its core, a celebration of Hrithik Roshan's on-screen charisma. The film showcases picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, but it's Roshan's impeccable presence that steals the spotlight. At 50, he exhibits dance moves reminiscent of his debut, exuding a timeless charm that captivates audiences. The film also stars Deepika Padukone, Karan Singh Grover, and Anil Kapoor in pivotal roles.
The narrative revolves around Squadron Leader Patty (Hrithik Roshan) and his team stationed in Srinagar as part of an elite quick-response unit overseen by Rocky (Anil Kapoor). Tensions rise as the storyline delves into real-world incidents, including a recreation of the 2019 Pulwama attack and subsequent retaliation in Balakot. The film, made in collaboration with the Indian Air Force, adopts a triumphant tone, leaving little room for ambiguity.
Known for his prowess in directing visually compelling action films, Siddharth Anand does not disappoint with "Fighter." The film boasts impressive visual fidelity, seamlessly blending real-world aircraft with top-notch computer-generated effects. The Balakot strike unfolds in a night-time spectacle, with Mirage 2000 fighter jets leaving a blazing trail against the backdrop of exploding terrain.
As "Fighter" continues its flight at the box office, the Republic Day boost suggests that the film may overcome its initial hurdles and soar to new heights. With Hrithik Roshan's magnetic presence and Siddharth Anand's directorial finesse, the audience can expect a thrilling cinematic experience in the days ahead. Stay tuned for updates on the film's box office performance and audience reception.