The steadfast belief of acor Nani in his new production, Court: State vs. A Nobody, has been validated as the courtroom drama debuted to extensive praise and remarkable box office performance on its release day.
Produced under Nani’s Wall Poster Cinema banner and directed by newcomer Ram Jagadeesh, the film has resonated with both audiences and critics, solidifying Nani’s status as a producer with a discerning eye for engaging material.
Nani had audaciously advocated for Court before its release, notably declaring at a pre-release gathering, “If Court fails to meet your expectations on March 14, then refrain from watching my film, HIT 3, which will be released in two months.”
This bold assertion elicited skepticism, although the risk has evidently yielded positive results. The film, addressing sensitive matters related to the POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) through a compelling narrative, opened to sold-out audiences in India and the USA on March 13.
Preliminary indications suggest that Court generated roughly 52 lakhs from its premiere screenings in India, achieving an impressive 93% occupancy rate. Abroad, especially in the USA, the film has already generated over $150,000 and continues to accumulate revenue, indicating Nani’s expanding brand appeal beyond regional confines. The film’s opening day revenue is estimated to be approximately Rs 1.25 crores, indicating a favorable commencement for a project produced on a modest budget of Rs 4 crores, particularly as it has already recouped its investment through non-theatrical agreements, including a Rs 8 crore OTT transaction with Netflix.
Critics have praised Court for its compelling courtroom scenes, emotional resonance, and exceptional performances, especially by Priyadarshi, who portrays the fervent lawyer Surya Teja.
Critiques emphasize the film’s authentic depiction of legal processes and its stimulating examination of justice, with numerous reviewers deeming it a “must-watch” due to its societal significance. The social media response has been exceedingly favorable, with admirers commending Nani’s choice to support a film that reinterprets commercial cinema by emphasizing substance above conventional formulas.
In Court: State v. A With no one achieving a remarkable beginning, attention is now focused on Nani’s forthcoming production decision and his impending acting project, HIT 3, scheduled for May 1, 2025. Nani’s faith in Court has not only yielded dividends but also solidified his reputation as a pioneer in Telugu cinema, harmonizing economic success with substantive storytelling.