'Housefull 4' crosses Rs. 50 crore mark at box office

Although, the film's business dropped significantly in the northern circuits on Sunday because of Diwali, the overall numbers have been favorable.

In fact, the movie has recorded the highest ever opening for a pre-Diwali release, leaving behind Hrithik Roshan-led superhero flick Krrish 3, which had released in 2013 and collected around Rs. 49 crore in its first weekend.

Housefull 4, that released in 3,900 screens across India, is expected to grow in business over the next few days.

However, movie critics haven't been too kind to the film.

Giving the film 1.5 stars out of five, trade analyst Taran Adarsh termed the film "disappointing."

The film has also received criticism for its shoddy writing, over-the-top performances, and bad jokes.

Helmed by Farhad Samji, Housefull 4 is the fourth installment in the popular Housefull franchise.

A reincarnation comedy, the story of the movie spans a period of 600 years.

It stars an ensemble cast that includes Akshay Kumar, Kriti Sanon, Riteish Deshmukh, Kriti Kharbanda, Bobby Deol, and Pooja Hegde in lead roles.

It released on October 25, two days before Diwali.

Notably, Housefull 4 recorded impressive business despite two other major releases, viz. Rajkummar Rao-led Made In China and Taapsee Pannu, Bhumi Pednekar-starrer Saand Ki Aankh.

However, both the releases have performed below par at the box office.

Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar also has films like Good Newwz, Laxmmi Bomb and Rohit Shetty's Sooryavanshi in the pipeline.