Tollywood and Kollywood witnessed a fiery box office clash on opening day as HIT 3, starring Nani, and Retro, headlined by Tamil superstar Suriya, released on the same date. Both films generated immense pre-release buzz, and Day 1 collections have lived up to the hype, setting the stage for a massive box office battle this weekend.
HIT 3: Nani Delivers a Gripping Thriller
HIT 3, the third installment in the popular crime-thriller franchise, sees Nani stepping into the shoes of a gritty cop investigating a complex case. Directed by Sailesh Kolanu, the film released across Telugu-speaking states and a few dubbed versions in Hindi and Tamil.
Early reports suggest that HIT 3 opened to packed theaters in Hyderabad, Vizag, and Bengaluru. The gripping narrative, Nani’s intense performance, and strong word-of-mouth have resulted in solid footfall throughout the day.
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Estimated Day 1 Collection (India): ₹10.5 crore
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Telugu States: ₹8.8 crore
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Occupancy: 70–85% in major cities
Nani’s loyal fanbase and the success of the previous HIT films have clearly fueled the movie’s momentum. The film is expected to see growth over the weekend, especially if multiplex audiences continue to engage positively.
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Retro: Suriya’s Time Travel Action Drama Impresses
On the other hand, Retro, Suriya’s ambitious action-packed time-travel thriller, directed by Karthik Subbaraj, hit the screens with high expectations. The film blends 1980s nostalgia with modern sci-fi elements, and Suriya’s dual role has drawn widespread praise.
Retro had a massive release across Tamil Nadu and overseas markets including Malaysia, Singapore, and the Gulf.
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Estimated Day 1 Collection (India): ₹12.7 crore
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Tamil Nadu: ₹9.9 crore
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Occupancy: 75–90% in Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai
Critics have highlighted the film’s stylish storytelling and Suriya’s magnetic presence. Its strong start in overseas markets is also expected to push the overall Day 1 worldwide gross beyond ₹18 crore.
Head-to-Head: Who Leads?
While Retro edges past HIT 3 in Day 1 earnings, both films are off to highly promising starts in their respective regions. The clash has not cannibalized collections, as both have distinct genres and fan followings. HIT 3 is dominating the Telugu belt, whereas Retro is commanding in Tamil Nadu and the overseas market.
Verdict: A Win-Win for South Cinema
With strong reviews and solid opening numbers, both HIT 3 and Retro are expected to maintain momentum over the weekend. The real test will be the Monday drop, but for now, the South Indian box office is thriving with this high-octane double release.
