Why a critically panned blockbuster still dominated the global box office in 2018
In short: Race 3 was savaged by critics, who labeled it a logic-defying, atrocious, and dim-witted ordeal. Yet, the action thriller became a massive financial success, proving that star power can sometimes override poor reviews. Explore how a film widely considered one of the worst of the year still commanded global audiences.
Released on 15 June 2018 to coincide with the Eid holiday, Race 3 was the third installment in a popular Indian action franchise. Despite an ensemble cast led by Salman Khan and high-profile choreography, the film faced a barrage of negative reviews. Critics from outlets like The Times of India, Hindustan Times, and News18 panned the script, plot, and performances, with some reviewers noting that the film felt like a collection of disjointed music videos rather than a cohesive story. One critic even remarked that the film seemed to insult the audience's intelligence, while another described it as a slow, dim-witted crawl to nowhere.
The narrative follows a dysfunctional, wealthy family of arms dealers in Abu Dhabi, centered on the character Sikander Singh. The plot involves complex betrayals, hidden agendas, and a mission to recover a hard disk containing incriminating videos of politicians. Behind the scenes, the production was equally turbulent. Salman Khan reportedly requested significant script changes before agreeing to the project, and the film underwent multiple location changes, including a shift from Abu Dhabi to Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, after Khan was convicted in a poaching case in April 2018.
Despite the critical consensus, the film was a commercial force. It opened on 4,300 screens in India, collecting ₹285 million on its first day. By the end of its run, it had grossed approximately ₹3.03 billion worldwide. The film’s success highlights a persistent tension in the industry: the gap between critical reception and commercial performance. While reviewers lamented the lack of substance and logic, the film’s status as a major holiday release featuring a massive superstar ensured it remained a significant financial event, even as it appeared on multiple lists for the worst films of the year.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Race 3
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/culture-race-3.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Traditions & customs · More in Cultures · Latest · A–Z · All topics
