'Kabali' mints $2 mn from North America premieres

Chennai: Superstar Rajinikanth-starrer Tamil action drama "Kabali" is off to a flyer in North America. From premiere shows alone, the film has collected $2 million from the US and Canada markets, according to distribution company CineGalaxy Inc.

"It is easily the best opening for an Indian film from premiere shows in North America. The film has collected $2 million from the premiere shows and it includes both the Tamil and Telugu version of 'Kabali'," Sanjay Dusari, Co-Founder of CineGalaxy Inc, told IANS.

"Kabali" released in over 400 screens in the US and Canada.

Trade analyst Trinath believes only a Rajinikanth-starrer can register such huge opening.

"No other star's film could've achieved this kind of opening. To collect $2 million from premieres is no easy feat and it was possible because of the excellent pre-release buzz and Rajinikanth's association with the project," he said.

According to Trinath, the film could've easily raked in over Rs. 50 crore on release day worldwide.

Released in nearly 5000 screens worldwide, the film narrates the tale of a gangster's shot at redemption and how he fights for equal pay rights for Tamils in Malaysia.

"Kabali", which was also released in Hindi, co-stars Radhika Apte, Kishore, Dinesh, Dhansikaa, Kalaiarasan and Winston Chao.