In a recent post on X, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma raised concerns over the inflated box office numbers reported by the makers of the Ram Charan-starrer Game Changer. His post reignited the ongoing debate about filmmakers overstating earnings to create the illusion of success and positive word-of-mouth. While this practice is common across industries, it has drawn criticism for misleading the audience.
Game Changer had its release on January 10, with its makers claiming a massive ₹186 crore on opening day. If true, this would make it the fourth-best opening for an Indian film, behind blockbusters like Pushpa 2, Baahubali 2, and RRR. However, trade sources suggest the actual collection was closer to ₹80 crore, as reported by data portal Sacnilk. An insider from the Telugu film industry revealed that the inflation was far beyond the typical 10-15% margin and may have been done to satisfy fans and enhance the star’s image.
Distributor Sanjay Ghai highlighted how terms like “gross value” and “net value” confuse the audience. He noted that many viewers do not understand these distinctions, often leading them to believe inflated figures. Ghai pointed out that both South and North Indian films face such issues, but audiences are generally aware of the reality.
This practice of inflating numbers to shape perception is not new. Atul Mohan, a trade analyst, pointed out that filmmakers often use inflated first-day figures for marketing purposes to create curiosity and hype around a film. As seen with films like Ghajini (2008), such tactics became popular with the rise of the “100 crore club,” but experts like Anil Sharma believe these strategies don’t help the film industry in the long run.