New Delhi, Sept. 24 -- The unexpected success of small-budget films such as Hanuman Ansh and Mirzapur-The Movie recently has edged out big-star titles, with Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan-led Haiwaan finding limited screens and showcasing earlier this month. A similar trend was seen when action thriller Awarapan 2 did far better than expected, beating Aamir Khan's production Batwara 1947 in August.

Theatre owners say this is rare in an industry where big-star films hog premium screens and shows, but it is equally important to note that showcasing decisions always follow business sense. Even a bigger film can start with optimum shows on day one that are gradually reduced and allotted to a film, however small, that's doing better. Given In...