The latest comedy release, MAD Square, has stormed the box office, emerging as the clear winner among this weekend’s new releases. A sequel to the 2023 hit MAD, the film is directed by Kalyan Shankar and stars Narne Nithin, Sangeeth Shobhan, and Ram Nithin.
“MAD Square” opened to a staggering worldwide gross of Rs 20 crore on its first day, outpacing its competitors.
Released on March 28, “MAD Square” faced stiff competition from Nithiin’s action-comedy Robinhood, Mohanlal’s Malayalam sequel L2: Empuraan, and other regional releases. However, its blend of quirky humor, high-energy antics, and a relatable friendship narrative struck a chord with audiences, securing a Rs 5.27 crore share in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana alone.
Industry trackers report that its North American hourly gross hit $233,129, with projections nearing $1 million gross for first week —a rare feat for a Tier-2 Telugu film. The film’s pre-release buzz, bolstered by chart-topping songs like “Laddu Gaani Pelli” and “Swathi Reddy” from Bheems Ceciroleo, translated into packed theaters and a 48% recovery of its valuation on day one.
In contrast, “Robinhood” struggled to gain momentum despite its promising premise and Nithiin’s star power. The film’s predictable trailer and lack of viral songs dampened its openings.
Director Venky Kudumula, known for his comedy-driven films, failed to deliver the expected humor this time. Even the presence of Sreeleela, a popular actress, didn’t give the film the boost it needed.
Despite some criticism for its weak story and over-the-top comedy, MAD Square succeeded as an entertaining, lighthearted watch. Its engaging portrayal of the MAD gang’s post-college adventures, culminating in a wild Goa trip, resonated with audiences as a fun, time-pass film.
Produced by Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, MAD Square not only lived up to the legacy of its predecessor but also exceeded expectations, solidifying its position as the weekend’s biggest winner.