English Vinglish gathers steam

A good story always sells — and English Vinglish is proof of it. After a lukewarm response in the first week, the simple story with a big message, picked up at the box office in its second week with homemakers, youngsters and professionals queuing up.

A good story always sells — and English Vinglish is proof of it. After a lukewarm response in the first week, the simple story with a big message, picked up at the box office in its second week with homemakers, youngsters and professionals queuing up.

Released on October 5, the film starring Sridevi was hailed by critics but initial footfalls didn’t match up. Word of mouth publicity indeed helped and people of all age groups are taking a liking to English Vinglish, a perfect comeback vehicle for Sridevi, whose outstanding performance as a simple housewife struggling with English has wowed fans.

From the 60 to 70 percent footfalls in its first weekend, English Vinglish went on to register 90 to 100 percent during the second weekend, said capital-based Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas. “Cinemas were jampacked for English Vinglish during the second week. Senior citizens especially are coming to watch the movie for Sridevi,” Sahay told IANS.

Directed by debutant Gauri Shinde, the movie has grossed approximately Rs 45.78 crore worldwide in 10 days. Its opening weekend collection was a gross Rs 27 crore worldwide. But by Oct 14, it made Rs 28.78 crore net in India, and approximately Rs 17 crore overseas. “We have certainly recovered our money,” producer R Balki said.