Cinepolis India's Strategy Behind Backing the Sleeper Blockbuster Hanuman Ansh

Cinepolis, a popular multiplex chain and prominent distributor, previously released The Taj Story and later acquired the theatrical rights to the devotional drama Hanuman Ansh. Initial expectations for the film were negligible before Cinepolis decided to back it.

Ashish Misra, Head of Commercialisation, Cinepolis India, explained that distribution decisions are data-driven rather than emotionally driven. Misra noted that the company liked the story and felt it was worth bringing to Indian audiences.

Cinepolis started the release small with approximately 200 screens. Although business was lower than expected for the first two weeks, audiences eventually discovered the film, leading to rapid growth and an expansion to roughly 2,000 to 2,200 screens across the country.

Misra stated that Cinepolis aims to take films with great music, strong storylines, and powerful content to a wider audience. Regarding a potential sequel, Misra noted that while it is too early to decide since the second part has not been made yet, the company would be open to associating with it.

Despite the release of the major film Drishyam The Conclusion, which caused holdover shows to decrease, Hanuman Ansh performed impressively as the second-best performing film over the weekend. The film is also scheduled to be released in Telugu by Hombale Films on October 9.