Movie goers' thumbs up to 'Titanic 3D', earns Rs.6.1 crore

New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) The 3D version of James Cameron's epic love story "Titanic" has garnered Rs.6.1 crore in the opening weekend and is said to be the highest grosser of the genre in he country. Trade experts are expecting more footfalls during the week.

Released Thursday, the 3D version of the movie garnered Rs.6.1 crore from 213 screens in opening weekend. It also enjoyed a good opening in the international market by earning $35.5m from 5,579 screens in 84 countries this weekend, a statement said.

"Titanic 3D's phenomenal success has set a new benchmark not just in 3D technology, but for re-releases in India and international markets. The film has done exceptionally good business not only in the major metros in India, but also in the smaller markets. The figures further reaffirm the passion and excitement which 'Titanic', one of the most celebrated films in cinema history, has enjoyed in India over the years," said Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios India, who is distributing the film here.

"Titanic", a love story with the 1912 sinking of the ship as its backdrop, was released in 1997, grossed $1.843-billion worldwide. It made around Rs.500 million (nearly $1 million) in India alone.

The 3D version of the film, released in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, is in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic and a special tribute to the tragedy that claimed several lives.

Before the release the trade experts were not so sure about the success but right now they are overwhelmed by its box office performance.

The majority of the multiplexes are running to full houses in Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad and Chennai and this shows the excitement amongst fans towards the film.

"The response has been really amazing during the weekends both in English and Hindi. The gross amount for the weekend collection is Rs 6.lakh and we are showing 12 shows a day. Also we have received 60 percent occupancy for the movies till now, whcih is unexepected," Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas told IANS.

Munish Sharma of Satyam Cineplexes said: "The film has received 80 to 90 percent occupancy and it has sustained the same throughout the weekend. The response is overwhelming and we are looking forward to get more business in days to come."

Piyush Raizada, director, Delite Cinema feels that the film has created wonders in terms of business and is probably one of the biggest 3D release in the country.

"The response so far has been good as lot of people are showing there interest to 'Titanic' even after 15 years. The movie so far has been termed as the biggest 3D release in India," Raizada told IANS.