The allure of the silver screen has always been timeless, but in the post-pandemic era, a fascinating new trend has emerged, redefining what it means to catch a blockbuster. Gone are the days when the latest show wrapped up by midnight. Welcome to the age of post-midnight and early morning screenings, a phenomenon that has gripped cinephiles and proven that true fandom knows no hour. From action-packed thrillers to animated epics, films are now packing theatres in the unlikeliest of hours, driven by an insatiable demand from eager audiences. This isn’t just a fleeting fad; it’s a testament to the enduring power of cinema and the passionate communities it fosters.
The seeds of this late-night revolution were sown with Rohit Shetty’s high-octane cop drama, Sooryavanshi (2021). As one of the first major releases post-lockdowns, it tested the waters, and audiences responded with resounding enthusiasm. Since then, the trend has only accelerated, with a stellar lineup of films proving that the magic of cinema extends well beyond the conventional showtimes. These aren’t just any films; they are blockbusters, critical darlings, and highly anticipated releases that command extraordinary demand.
A glance at the films that have embraced this early-hour strategy reveals a diverse and impressive roster:
Each of these films, in their own right, became cultural touchstones, and their post-midnight screenings served as a testament to their immense popularity and the audience’s eagerness to be among the first to witness cinematic history unfold. This isn’t merely about ticking a box; it’s about fulfilling a genuine, palpable demand.
What drives this nocturnal cinematic fever? Several factors contribute to the escalating popularity of post-midnight shows:
For highly anticipated films, especially those with massive fan bases, early morning shows offer the ultimate bragging right: being among the first to see it. It’s a collective experience, a celebration of fandom that transcends convenience. Social media buzz, spoiler avoidance, and the sheer excitement of a communal viewing experience at an unusual hour amplify the appeal.
These screenings often feel like special events. Attending a 1:00 AM show is an adventure in itself, creating memorable experiences that go beyond a typical movie outing. It transforms a regular film viewing into a unique, almost exclusive, event.
For theatre owners, adding these extra shows means maximizing screen time and revenue, especially for films that are performing exceptionally well. It’s a smart business move that caters directly to audience demand, ensuring every available slot is utilized.
The pandemic subtly shifted routines for many. With more flexible work arrangements and a renewed appreciation for out-of-home entertainment, people are perhaps more open to unconventional timings for leisure activities.
The latest film to emphatically join this coveted list of midnight titans is Dhurandhar. The excitement surrounding its release has reached a fever pitch, prompting theatres across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to schedule an impressive array of post-midnight and early morning shows. As of 5:00 pm on December 5, a whopping six theatres in the MMR have added these special screenings for Saturday, December 6, a clear indicator of the film’s immense draw.
Leading the charge in this nocturnal movie marathon is Maxus Cinema Bhayandar, which has truly outdone itself. This single location boasts an astounding eight shows between 12:00 am and 7:00 am. Imagine the dedication of fans lining up for:
Such a schedule is unprecedented and speaks volumes about the anticipated rush for Dhurandhar.
Not far behind, Maxus’s Borivali property is also making significant contributions, playing four shows at the “ungodly hour”:
Other prominent cinemas in the region are also jumping on the bandwagon:
This comprehensive coverage ensures that Dhurandhar is accessible to every eager fan, no matter how early or late they wish to catch it.
It’s worth noting that the “post-midnight” category isn’t always strictly defined by shows starting exactly at 12:00 am or later. Many theatres have cleverly incorporated shows scheduled for 11:59 pm or 11:55 pm on Friday. While technically starting before midnight, these screenings inevitably run past the stroke of twelve, effectively serving the same purpose as a post-midnight slot. This strategy allows theatres to tap into the demand for late-night viewing without a hard ‘midnight’ start time.
Several well-known multiplexes have adopted this approach for Dhurandhar, including:
This widespread adoption of late-night and early-morning slots underscores Dhurandhar’s blockbuster potential and the industry’s agility in responding to audience enthusiasm. It’s a vibrant ecosystem where fan demand directly shapes exhibition strategies.
The sustained success of post-midnight shows, exemplified by films like Sooryavanshi, Jawan, Pathaan, Oppenheimer, and now Dhurandhar, signals a significant evolution in cinematic exhibition. It’s no longer just about prime time; it’s about *any time* that audiences are willing to show up. This trend suggests a more flexible, demand-driven model for film releases, where popular titles can command round-the-clock screenings, maximizing their theatrical run and catering to a wider, more enthusiastic demographic.
The announcement of Dhurandhar ending with the promise of a sequel, set to release on Eid, March 19, 2026, clashing with Toxic and Dhamaal 4, further cements its status as a major cinematic event. This forward-looking approach indicates that the film is not just a one-off hit but a franchise in the making, likely to continue drawing massive crowds, even at the most unconventional hours.
The rise of post-midnight and early morning shows is more than just a scheduling quirk; it’s a powerful affirmation of cinema’s enduring magic and its ability to bring people together, even in the wee hours. It showcases a thriving fan culture, a responsive exhibition industry, and films so compelling that they inspire audiences to defy conventional sleep patterns. Dhurandhar, with its impressive lineup of early-hour screenings, stands as the latest beacon in this exciting new chapter of movie-going. So, if you’re a true cinephile, the next blockbuster might just be waiting for you, long after the rest of the city has gone to sleep.