Introduction: The film “Adipurush,” directed by Om Raut and starring Prabhas, was one of the most anticipated movies of 2023. As a modern adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana, it faced immense scrutiny from both fans and critics alike. Despite the mixed reception, the film performed exceptionally well at the box office, prompting Raut to label Prabhas as a “flop-proof” star. This article delves into Om Raut’s perspectives on the film’s performance, the impact of Prabhas’s star power, and how “Adipurush” overcame controversies to achieve financial success. Adipurush: A Mixed Reception and Massive Box Office Success “Adipurush,” featuring Prabhas as Lord Ram, Kriti Sanon as Sita, and Saif Ali Khan as Ravan, generated a whirlwind of opinions upon its release. Critics pointed out several flaws, ranging from visual effects to script choices, which led to significant backlash on social media. However, despite the controversy, the film saw remarkable box office collections. Om Raut, speaking about this dichotomy, emphasized that while the movie faced criticism, its commercial performance told a different story. The film grossed approximately ₹400 crores worldwide, with a staggering ₹70 crores collected on the opening day alone in India. Raut’s Perspective on the Audience’s Reaction: Om Raut, in an interview, expressed his frustration with the toxic environment that surrounded the film post-release. He explained that the criticism and box office earnings were two different aspects that should be seen separately. While critics focused on the narrative and technical execution, audiences flocked to theaters, driven by the star power of Prabhas and the film’s emotional connection to the legendary tale of Ramayana. Raut acknowledged that a better public perception could have led to even higher earnings, but he remained content with the substantial numbers the film achieved. Prabhas: The Flop-Proof Star Raut highlighted Prabhas’s status as a “flop-proof” actor, attributing much of the film’s success to his immense fan following. Prabhas, who gained international fame with the “Baahubali” series, has built a loyal fan base that supports his projects regardless of critical reception. Raut compared Prabhas to other megastars like Salman Khan, suggesting that these actors possess a certain aura that protects their careers from the impact of occasional box office failures. This enduring appeal helps their movies, including “Adipurush,” to perform well financially despite negative reviews.
The Controversies Surrounding Adipurush: The controversies surrounding “Adipurush” were numerous. From criticisms of its visual effects to debates over its dialogues and interpretation of the epic, the film was at the center of multiple discussions. Many fans and critics felt that the portrayal of key characters and scenes did not align with their expectations or the traditional narratives they cherished. The creative liberties taken by the filmmakers were seen as a bold but divisive move, and this backlash heavily influenced public discourse. Raut defended his creative choices, emphasizing that adapting such a revered text to a modern cinematic format was a challenge that naturally invited diverse opinions. Financial Triumph Despite Backlash: Despite facing a wave of online trolling and harsh reviews, “Adipurush” managed to draw crowds and generate significant revenue. The film’s box office figures were driven not just by Prabhas’s star power but also by the marketing strategies and the sheer curiosity surrounding the film’s grand portrayal of a beloved epic. Om Raut explained that the financial success of “Adipurush” demonstrates the power of storytelling and the ability of cinema to transcend critical opinions, reaching audiences who connect with the narrative on a personal level. Om Raut’s assertion that Prabhas is “flop-proof” is backed by the success of “Adipurush,” which, despite its flaws, became a box office hit. The film’s journey highlights the complex relationship between a movie’s critical reception and its commercial viability. For Raut, the experience served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the film industry, where star power, audience loyalty, and cultural resonance can often outweigh negative reviews. As Raut continues to reflect on “Adipurush,” the film’s success stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Prabhas and the unshakeable connection that audiences have with cinematic adaptations of their favorite stories. This exploration of “Adipurush” underscores the unpredictable nature of film reception and the powerful role that fan loyalty plays in the industry. Whether Prabhas continues to be “flop-proof” remains to be seen, but his performance in “Adipurush” has certainly cemented his status as a beloved star capable of drawing audiences regardless of the critical noise.