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- Maalik, Superman and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan Movie Review and Release Live Updates: David Corenswet starrer takes the lead over Rajkummar Rao and Vikrant Massey-Shakaya Kapoor films
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Jul 11, 2025, 07:11:58 IST
Theatres across India are gearing up for one epic showdown at the box office, with the release of three films. The Bollywood films Maalik and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan will go head-to-head with the Hollywood superhero film Superman on Friday, July 11.
As moviegoers flock to cinemas this weekend, all eyes are on the box office as the Man of Steel faces off against homegrown narratives in two distinct genres.
James Gunn’s Superman leads the global charge. The superhero film, which revisits Clark Kent’s early days in Metropolis, has made a grand entrance in India, releasing across premium formats including IMAX 3D. Early buzz and advance bookings suggest a strong opening, with industry trackers projecting day-one collections in the Rs 8-10 crore range. Internationally, the film is expected to rake in over $115 million in its opening weekend.
Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao headlines Maalik, a gritty Bollywood crime thriller set in 1980s Allahabad. The film follows a small-time crook’s rise to power and the personal cost of his ambition. With a reported budget of Rs 54 crore, the film needs to perform well to break even. Early estimates predict an opening between Rs 3-4 crore.
On the other end of the emotional spectrum is Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama starring Vikrant Massey and debutante Shanaya Kapoor. Inspired by Ruskin Bond’s The Eyes Have It, the film tells the story of a blind musician and a theatre artist who form a quiet connection on a train journey. While praised for its tenderness and authentic chemistry, its box office prospects remain modest, with an opening day prediction of under Rs 1 crore.
The Hollywood release is widely tipped to dominate. Just last week, Jurassic World: Rebirth outpaced Bollywood’s Metro… In Dino, crossing Rs 50 crore in its first week, a clear sign of Hollywood’s growing influence in Indian multiplexes.
Whether the raw intensity of Maalik or the soulful simplicity of Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan can counter Superman’s cinematic spectacle remains to be seen. But one thing is certain, the weekend’s box office race is on, and audiences are spoilt for choice.
Director Santosh opens up about navigating the trolling for launching star kid Shanaya Kapoor
Asked how he navigates the trolling for launching a star kid, the director disclosed, "Today, people are quick to judge, especially online. But I strongly believe everyone deserves a fair shot. Shanaya gave this film her all. She did four months of workshops, worked with acting coaches, and sent us videos after every rehearsal. She earned this role with merit, not just her last name."
Director Santosh Singh reveals how Shanaya Kapoor came on-board Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan
Speaking about how Shanaya came onboard the film, he revealed, "It felt like destiny. We were looking for a fresh face, and a casting director friend shared an old audition tape of hers. There was something raw and vulnerable in it that just felt right for the character. She prepared thoroughly and did multiple workshops. She truly earned this role."
Director Santosh Singh on casting Shanaya Kapoor: There was an added responsibility
Director Santosh Singh shared that "Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan" being Shanaya's theatrical debut added further pressure on him. He said, "There was an added responsibility. But I didn’t see it as pressure — more like an opportunity to create something honest. Shanaya came in with sincerity and a strong work ethic. She was open, eager to learn, and willing to put in the hard work. Directing her was a smooth and fulfilling experience."
Director Santosh Singh defends pairing Vikrant Massey & Shanaya Kapoor in 'Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan'
Filmmaker Santosh Singh has defended the unusual pairing of Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor in his next, "Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan" saying "let the story speak”.
When asked about the criticism faced due to Vikrant and Shanaya's huge age gap, the director revealed, "People will always react. But once they watch the film, they’ll understand why this pairing works. It’s what the story needed. They complement each other beautifully on screen. It’s unconventional, but that’s exactly what makes it compelling."
How Rajkummar Rao underwent a striking physical transformation for 'Maalik'
Rajkummar Rao’s action thriller Maalik was announced on the occasion of his 40th birthday. The makers later revealed that the film would be hitting theatres on July 11, 2025. Interestingly, the ‘Stree’ actor underwent a striking physical transformation for his role. The actor grew his beard for more than 80 days to achieve a wild, rugged appearance that exudes raw intensity on screen. Director Pulkit had shared that the look was carefully planned, as the team wanted Rajkummar to reflect a strong and unfiltered sense of power through his appearance in the film.
He said, “We wanted Raj to embody a sense of raw power, something that feels lived-in, gritty, and unapologetically real. He committed to the process fully, both physically and emotionally. Rajkummar Rao grew his beard for nearly three months to embody a character bursting with wild energy. What you see in the teaser is just the beginning, there’s so much more to this character, and Rajkummar has delivered something truly special.”
The film also stars Manushi Chhillar, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Medha Shankr, Huma Qureshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Swanand Kirkire.
"I'm not gonna try and give you any tips": When David Corenswet asked for advice from former Superman actor Henry Cavill, Tyler Hoechlin
James Gunn's 'Superman' star David Corenswet revealed that he discussed asking for advice from Henry Cavill and Tyler Hoechlin, who both played the DC icon in 'Man of Steel' and 'Superman & Lois' respectively.
"Both of them, interestingly, sort of said in their own words, 'I'm not gonna try and give you any tips. And I think that's a very Superman thing. Superman's not so much for giving advice or dictating how other people should be," said David Corenswet as quoted by Variety.
"They really just conveyed to me an encouragement and a sense of 'have fun with it', which I think is Superman's way of doing it too. They were very encouraging and we had a lovely experience. I'm excited to meet them one day. It'll be great when we can all get in a room together," added Corenswet.
Karan Johar welcomes Shanaya Kapoor to the movies ahead of 'Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan' release
Actor Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor's daughter Shanaya Kapoor will officially be a movie star after the theatrical release of her debut movie "Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan" on July 11th.
Ahead of the release, filmmaker Karan Johar gave a shoutout to Shanaya, welcoming her to the movies.
KJo took to his Instagram and posted a couple of unseen photos of Shanaya with her family, along with a poster of "Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan".
Karan revealed that he has seen Sanjay and Maheep through the various ups and downs of life, and can say with absolute certainty that for them the center of the universe are their two kids- Shanaya and Jahaan.
KJo penned on the photo-sharing app, "I have known Sanjay and Maheep for over three decades….I have seen them in joyous celebrations, in quiet moments, in their lowest hours and beautiful destiny highs… battling storms that have come in their way with a broad smile on their faces and always an impeccable sense of humour … a couple that are deeply loved by everyone who know them…. The centres of their universe has always been their children Shanaya and Jahaan ( fun fact: I have named him ) …They raised them to be the most warm and loving children…."
Expressing his excitement for Shanaya's Bollywood debut, Karan added, "Day after is a day of sunshine for their baby girl…she is an exceptionally hard working girl and has poured her heart and soul into her debut feature… will ofcourse let her work speak for itself and I know it will…. Shine on Shanaya and welcome to the movies …. @sanjaykapoor2500 @maheepkapoor @shanayakapoor02 #ankhonkigustakhiyan."
Kareena Kapoor sends love to Rajkummar Rao ahead of the release of ‘Maalik’
Actress Kareena Kapoor, on Thursday, took to social media to send her best wishes to Rajkummar Rao ahead of the release of his upcoming film “Maalik.”
Taking to her Instagram stories, she shared the trailer of the film and wrote, “Good luck the entire team. Kill it guys.. sending huge love watch it in cinemas tomorrow!” Bebo also tagged Rao and others in her post. It is worth noting that Kareena Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao have never shared screen space before. Her gesture of support ahead of the release of “Maalik” highlights the mutual respect within the industry, even among actors who haven’t yet collaborated.
It’s a clash of genres, cultures, and storytelling as three cinematic worlds collide this weekend at the Indian box office. Theatres will become a battleground of sorts as Superman goes up against the Bollywood films Maalik and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan.
While David Corenswet soars into theatres with global momentum and IMAX dominance, threatening to overshadow Bollywood’s latest offerings, Rajkummar Rao is giving fans a treat as he trades his moral compass for a gripping tale of ambition and power set in the smoky underbelly of 1980s Allahabad. Across the aisle, Vikrant and Shanaya team up for a tender, tactile romance story. But the question remains if intimacy and intensity be enough to rival the might of the Man of Steel?
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