In an unusual pre-release move, select Mumbai theatres have begun scheduling post-midnight screenings, some as late as 1 AM, for two very different but equally anticipated films – Riteish Deshmukh’s historical epic ‘Raja Shivaji’ and the long-awaited Hollywood sequel ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’. The development signals exceptional advance demand for both films ahead of their releases.
‘Raja Shivaji’ and ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ get post-midnight shows
While late-night shows are typically added after a film proves itself at the box office, the situation here is different. Both films are generating such strong pre-release interest that exhibitors have run into capacity constraints well before opening day. According to the Bollywood Hungama report, select PVR cinemas have slotted ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ after 1 AM, while a few Moviemax theatres have added post-midnight shows for ‘Raja Shivaji’.The report stated, “There’s crazy demand for these two films. However, as there are too many releases, these films are facing capacity issues. Hence, exhibitors have decided to play shows after 12:00 am since the demand is there.”
About Riteish Deshmukh’s ‘Raja Shivaji’
Directed by and starring Riteish Deshmukh, ‘Raja Shivaji’ traces the early life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj – his vision of Swarajya, his resistance against powerful rulers and the foundations of a legacy that still commands deep reverence, especially in Maharashtra.The film features a stellar cast including Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Vidya Balan, Bhagyashree, Mahesh Manjrekar and Boman Irani.The film raked in Rs 11 crore on its debut day in theatres – May 1, 2026.
More about ‘The Devils Wear Prada 2’
Nearly two decades after the 2006 cult classic, ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ reunites the original ensemble, Meryl Streep as the icy Miranda Priestly, Anne Hathaway as Andy Sachs, and Emily Blunt as Emily Charlton, with Stanley Tucci also returning.Directed again by David Frankel, the sequel is expected to explore the fashion and media world in the age of social media and digital influence. New additions include Simone Ashley, Kenneth Branagh and Lucy Liu. Viral trailers, fashion-forward promotions and sheer nostalgia have kept audience excitement at a fever pitch.As per Sacnilk, the Hollywood film earned Rs 7 crore in India on May 1, 2026.