As the Independence Day 2025 weekend approaches, two high-octane blockbusters—“War 2” (starring Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR, and Kiara Advani) and South superstar Rajinikanth’s “Coolie”—are gearing up for a head-to-head clash on August 14. Advance booking figures from North America reveal a fierce contest for the hearts (and wallets) of cinephiles abroad.
“War 2” U.S. Advance Sales:
- Shows & Locations: 1,585 screenings across 582 venues
- Premiere Day Advances: USD 178,000 (approx. ₹1.55 crore)
With ten days still to go before release, analysts expect these numbers to climb steadily as word-of-mouth and promotional activities ramp up.
“Coolie” U.S. Advance Sales:
- Shows & Locations: 1,147 screenings in 430 venues
- Premiere Day Advances: USD 1.06 million (approx. ₹9.25 crore)
Rajinikanth’s fan fervor drove “Coolie” to a significantly higher advance tally, showcasing his enduring box-office pull in overseas markets.
In-Conversation: Shruti Haasan on the Clash
Actress Shruti Haasan—who appears in “Coolie”—told Zoom that theatrical date clashes are part of industry dynamics:
“Nothing can be done about it. Filmmakers choose slots, and sometimes two big films coincide. Audiences will decide which film they want to see—it’s how the business operates.”
What to Expect on August 14
- War 2 (dir. Ayan Mukerji) expands Yash Raj Films’ Spy Universe, pitting rogue agent Kabir against India’s top operative Vikram in a globe-trotting cat-and-mouse thriller.
- Coolie (dir. Lokesh Kanagaraj) follows Deva, an aging wage-laborer played by Rajinikanth, compelled to confront a ruthless kingpin to protect a friend—with an ensemble cast that includes Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, and a cameo by Aamir Khan.
With two very different cinematic universes vying for the same holiday audience, the Independence Day weekend box office is poised for an electrifying battle—both on screen and at the ticket window.
