The Malayalam film based on the 2018 Kerala floods is taking the Indian and worldwide box office by storm. Titled "2018" and led by Tovino Thomas, the movie has grossed around Rs. 25 Cr. in the state of Kerala and Rs. 50 Cr. worldwide in its first week. The film started modestly, with around Rs. 1.85 Cr. in Kerala on the first day, but gained significant momentum over the weekend with Sunday grosses being around 2.5 times the opening day numbers. With collections remaining strong over the weekdays, it is likely that the second week will outperform the first.
The content of the film, which depicts the devastating floods that rocked Kerala in 2018, has resonated with Malayalam viewers, leading to plans to release it in other languages. The Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu versions of "2018" will hit theaters on May 12, 2023. The producers are hopeful that the response in other languages will be equally positive.
Not only is "2018" expected to become the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time worldwide but it is also expected to surpass the 2016 blockbuster Pulimurugan as the highest-grossing film in Kerala. In fact, the movie's success has been so impressive that it has even displaced "The Kerala Story," a film that paints the state in a negative light. "2018" is being hailed as the real Kerala story by audiences, showing the true spirit of the state in the face of adversity.
Overall, "2018" has taken the Indian box office by storm and its success shows no signs of slowing down. With its powerful storyline, talented cast, and strong word-of-mouth promotion, it is likely to continue breaking records and inspiring viewers for years to come.
