Dulquer Salmaan Returns to Malayalam Cinema: ‘I’m Game’ Off to a Strong Start with ₹2.76 Crore in Advance Sales

Dulquer Salmaan, one of the most bankable stars in Indian cinema, is making a much-anticipated return to his Malayalam roots with his latest project, I’m Game. As the film gears up for its theatrical release, it has already generated significant momentum, raking in an impressive ₹2.76 crore through advance booking figures for its opening day.

A Powerful Comeback

After a three-year hiatus from the Malayalam film industry, the excitement surrounding Dulquer’s return is palpable. According to data from Track Bollywood, the film has successfully sold approximately 1.59 lakh tickets in advance, setting a solid foundation for its box-office run.

While the numbers are undeniably strong, they fall just short of the record set by the actor’s 2023 action-heavy drama, King of Kotha, which secured ₹3.04 crore in pre-sales. Despite trailing the previous benchmark by roughly ₹28 lakh, I’m Game has proven that the star’s regional pull remains as potent as ever.

The Mystery Behind the ‘Game’

Directed by Nahas Hidayath, the film features Dulquer Salmaan as Dan John, a high-stakes gambler who relies heavily on his intuition and luck. The project also boasts an ensemble cast including Antony Varghese, Mysskin, and Kayadu Lohar.

In a personal message to his fanbase, Dulquer maintained a shroud of mystery regarding the plot, urging viewers to avoid spoilers and experience the cinematic journey firsthand. “Everything I’ve been holding back, you’ll finally experience on the big screen tomorrow,” the actor wrote on social media. “I truly hope you love the film, the world we’ve created, and the game we’ve played. Once the film releases, I’ll come back and talk to you all about it in detail.”

Industry Support and Multi-Language Reach

The film’s release has drawn warm wishes from across the industry. Actor Nivin Pauly, who is currently riding high on the success of Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, took to social media to welcome his contemporary back to the industry. “Welcome back home, dear brother. Wishing ‘I’m Game’ a blockbuster all the way,” Pauly wrote.

Originally slated for an August 20 release, I’m Game was shifted to a September 3 arrival. To capitalize on Dulquer’s pan-Indian appeal, the film is set for a wide release, launching simultaneously in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada. With such a massive rollout, all eyes are now on the box office to see if the film can translate its strong pre-sale numbers into long-term theatrical success.