Taapsee Pannu has slowly and gradually become one of the most credible actresses today. This all began in a way when she did an action-packed supporting role in Akshay Kumar-starrer ‘Baby’ (2015). She then cemented her position with ‘Pink’ (2016). Last year, she surprised as ‘Badla’ emerged as one of the biggest hits of 2019, earning Rs. 87.56 crore. Of course, one can’t deny that Amitabh Bahchan’s presence also played a part in making the film a success. But at the same time, she also enjoys trust amongst multiplex audience and that has added to her brand.
Now she’s all set to present ‘Thappad’, which releases tomorrow. It is directed by Anubhav Sinha, whose 2.0 avatar gave us hard-hitting films like ‘Mulk’ (2018) and ‘Article 15’ (2019). ‘Thappad’ is in the same zone, yet differs. It’s about a housewife who is enjoying her married life until one day, her husband slaps her in a party. How her life changes and how she decides to fight forms the crux of the film. The trailer is excellent and has raised curiosity. Taapsee seems to be in top form.
‘Thappad’ also has the advantage of releasing solo. Last week’s ‘Bhoot: Part One – The Haunted Ship’ has underperformed while ‘Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan’ is not a big hit. Hence, ‘Thappad’ will get maximum shows and can take full advantage of one-week period before ‘Baaghi 3’ storms in cinemas. Even after ‘Baaghi 3’s release, it can continue to earn among top multiplexes. International Women’s Day falls on Sunday March 8 and this might add to the collections marginally.
‘Thappad’ also faces some challenges. The subject and treatment is niche. Many audiences, even among the elite, might find it difficult to accept that the woman wants to separate just because she got slapped, but that too only once. Also, Taapsee’s track record is not consistent. In between she has given flops like ‘Game Over’ (2019) and an average film like ‘Saand Ki Aankh’ (2019). The latter especially got affected due to a bad release date. ‘Thappad’ can open in the range of Rs. 2-3 crore. It can dramatically grow on Saturday and Sunday, as it happens with such films, if the reports are positive. If Monday is close to Friday or higher, then the film can run even till ‘Sooryavanshi’! However, a bad word of mouth will prove detrimental.
