According to a distributor, the much-hyped family drama Aadarsha Kutumbham has opened to average collections in the Telugu states. The film reportedly collected a share of around Rs 6 crore plus in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on its first day, falling short of distributors’ expectations. They had anticipated a much bigger opening, given the combination of Venkatesh and Trivikram Srinivas.

The duo had earlier delivered memorable hits such as Nuvvu Naaku Nachav and Malliswari. Naturally, their reunion after nearly two decades had generated considerable excitement among moviegoers.

However, the distributor feels the film’s different treatment may have affected its initial response. “This is a dark thriller laced with comedy and marks a new genre for both the actor and director. Unlike their earlier fun-filled entertainers, they have experimented with a crime drama blended with family emotions. This has resulted in a mixed response in the Telugu states,” he points out.

Venkatesh has delivered a solid performance in a dark role and carries much of the film on his shoulders. Trivikram, meanwhile, has managed to retain his trademark comic punchlines in parts. However, these elements have not been enough to keep audiences engaged throughout.

The film reportedly needs to recover around Rs 43 crore in the Telugu states, and it has a long way to go to reach that target, the distributor concludes.