The runtime of Dhurandhar: The Revenge has become one of the most talked-about aspects of the film even before its theatrical release. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the sequel reportedly runs for 3 hours and 55 minutes (235 minutes), making it one of the longest mainstream Hindi films in recent years. While the ambitious duration has excited fans who expect a large-scale cinematic spectacle, it has also sparked debate within the film trade about whether such a lengthy runtime could affect the movie’s box office performance.
Runtime Concerns in Theatres
One of the biggest concerns among exhibitors is the impact the film’s runtime could have on daily show counts. A typical commercial blockbuster with a runtime of around 150 minutes allows cinemas to schedule five to six shows per screen each day. However, a film that runs close to four hours, along with additional time for trailers, advertisements, interval breaks and auditorium cleaning, significantly reduces the number of screenings.
Industry estimates suggest that theatres may only be able to schedule three to four shows per day for the film. This reduction in show count can directly affect ticket sales, potentially shrinking the total ticket-selling window by as much as 30 percent compared to shorter films.
Because of this, the sequel will need extremely high occupancy levels across its shows to match or surpass the box office performance of the first film in the franchise.
The Risk of Audience Fatigue
Another topic being widely discussed is whether audiences will remain engaged for nearly four hours. Some trade observers believe that if the pacing slows down—particularly during the film’s reportedly detailed geopolitical narrative in the second half—there could be concerns about viewer fatigue.
In the age of streaming and shorter attention spans, maintaining audience engagement for such an extended duration is considered a challenge. Early audience reactions and word of mouth could therefore play a critical role in determining the film’s weekend box office momentum.
Lessons From Recent Long Films
Supporters of the film argue that a long runtime does not necessarily hurt a film if the storytelling is compelling. Recent blockbusters such as Animal, which ran for over three hours, performed strongly at the box office despite its lengthy duration.
However, critics point out that films like Animal relied heavily on intense drama, emotional conflict and spectacle to keep audiences engaged. Whether a slower-burn tactical spy thriller can sustain the same level of engagement for nearly four hours remains an open question.
Trade Experts Remain Optimistic
Despite the concerns, several trade experts believe the runtime will not significantly affect the film’s theatrical prospects. Veteran trade analyst Taran Adarsh believes the film will still receive a strong number of shows due to strategic scheduling.
According to Adarsh, exhibitors can compensate for the longer runtime by scheduling early morning shows and late-night screenings, effectively spreading the film across multiple time slots. He also suggested that the absence of major competing releases could work in the film’s favour.
“If there was another big film releasing alongside it, the screens would have been divided. But with no major competition, the film will dominate screens,” he explained.
Occupancy Will Matter More Than Capacity
Exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi shares a similar perspective. He emphasised that what ultimately determines box office success is audience occupancy, not just the number of shows.
According to Rathi, cinemas across the country are expected to dedicate a large number of screens to the film from day one. Even with fewer shows per screen, the overall seat capacity could remain strong due to wide distribution.
“The real number that matters is the occupancy we generate,” he noted. “Even with a runtime of nearly four hours, the film will have enough screens and enough shows to meet audience demand.”
Long Films Have Worked Before
Trade experts also highlight that lengthy films are not a new phenomenon in Indian cinema. Several classics have successfully entertained audiences despite their extended runtimes.
Iconic films such as Sholay, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! and Mughal-e-Azam all ran for over three hours and went on to become historic box office successes.
Even longer films like Mera Naam Joker and Sangam approached the four-hour mark. While Mera Naam Joker struggled initially, it later gained immense popularity through repeat screenings.
These examples suggest that storytelling quality often outweighs runtime concerns.
Content Still Remains King
Industry experts also point out that shorter films are not automatically easier to sit through. Many movies with a runtime of just two hours have struggled to hold audience attention due to weak storytelling.
A compelling narrative, strong characters and engaging pacing are ultimately what determine whether audiences remain invested throughout a film’s duration.
As Rathi explained, even a film running for two and a half hours can feel exhausting if the content fails to engage viewers.
The Real Test Begins on Opening Day
For now, the nearly four-hour runtime of Dhurandhar: The Revenge remains both its biggest talking point and biggest gamble. While the ambitious scale has created excitement among fans, the film’s success will ultimately depend on whether audiences are willing to embrace such an expansive cinematic experience.
If the storytelling delivers on its promise, the film could prove that lengthy runtimes are not a barrier to blockbuster success. But if the pacing falters, the extended duration may become a challenge the film struggles to overcome.
The final verdict will only emerge once audiences step into theatres and decide whether the nearly four-hour journey is worth the ride.
