The trend of re-releasing blockbuster films has gained massive traction among Tamil cinema fans recently. Following the successful re-runs of classics like Mounam Pesiyadhe, Kadhalar Dhinam, and Minnale last week, the industry is gearing up for another major wave of nostalgia on February 20. Leading the pack is Thalapathy Vijay’s cult classic Ghilli, which is returning to screens once again after a record-breaking re-release run in 2024. Joining it is Ajith Kumar’s heist thriller Thunivu, setting the stage for another fan-driven "clash" at the box office.

In addition to these two star-studded films, Vijay Sethupathi’s breakout hit Soodhu Kavvum is also scheduled for a re-release, returning to theaters 13 years after its original debut. This wave of re-releases aims to capitalize on the dry spell of major new releases while offering fans a chance to experience their favorite cinematic moments on the big screen again. The variety in genres from rural action to modern heist and dark comedy ensures a wide appeal across different audience segments.

Initial reports on pre-booking collections indicate a strong start for the upcoming Friday screenings. Ghilli has already amassed ₹3 lakh in advance sales, maintaining its status as a re-release juggernaut. On the other hand, Thunivu has recorded ₹1.5 lakh in pre-bookings so far. While these figures are early, the momentum is expected to shift significantly as the weekend approaches and more screens are added across Tamil Nadu.

The continued success of these old hits highlights a shift in audience behavior, where "fan-favorite" experiences are becoming as lucrative as mid-budget new films. Theater owners are increasingly relying on these re-runs to maintain footfalls. As the countdown to February 20 begins, trade analysts are closely watching to see if these veteran blockbusters can outperform recent new releases in terms of weekend occupancy and overall collection.