Upcoming Movies Next Week: The box office is set for an exciting week as theatres welcome a mix of light-hearted comedies, action-packed entertainers, international thrillers, and one big patriotic blockbuster that could dominate collections. From January 16 to January 23, 2026, moviegoers will have multiple options across genres, making it one of the most commercially promising weeks of the month.
Here’s a detailed look at the movies releasing next week, along with their box office potential, audience appeal, and market expectations.
Upcoming Movies Next Week: Rahu Ketu
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Genre: Comedy / Adventure
Cast: Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Shalini Pandey
Film Overview
Rahu Ketu is designed as a feel-good entertainer that blends comedy with adventure. The film reunites Pulkit Samrat and Varun Sharma, a duo known for their comic timing and strong youth appeal. The story revolves around a series of misadventures that lead the protagonists into unexpected situations, promising clean humor and mass-friendly entertainment.
Audience & Market Appeal
The film targets families, college students, and casual moviegoers who enjoy light cinema. With minimal competition in the pure comedy space next week, Rahu Ketu could benefit from audiences seeking stress-free entertainment.
Box Office Expectations
Comedy films generally rely heavily on word of mouth. If early audience reactions are positive, the movie could show steady growth after its first weekend.
Expected Opening Weekend Collection: ₹10–20 crore
Lifetime Potential: ₹40–60 crore, depending on reception.
Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Genre: Action-Comedy / Spy
Cast: Vir Das, Mona Singh, Mithila Palkar, Sharib Hashmi
Film Overview
Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos brings a quirky twist to the spy genre. Instead of the usual macho hero, the film follows an ordinary man who accidentally becomes part of a dangerous intelligence mission. The blend of humor, action, and satire gives it a unique identity in the crowded action-comedy space.
Audience & Market Appeal
The film is expected to attract urban audiences, especially fans of Vir Das and Sharib Hashmi. Its tone suits multiplex viewers who enjoy smart comedy rather than loud slapstick.
Box Office Expectations
With moderate pre-release buzz, the film may start slow but has potential for strong weekday performance if reviews are favorable.
Expected Opening Weekend Collection: ₹8–15 crore
Lifetime Potential: ₹35–50 crore.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (International Release)
Release Date: January 16, 2026
Genre: Action / Thriller / Horror
Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams
Director: Danny Boyle
Film Overview
This highly anticipated international release continues the legendary zombie saga that began with 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later. Directed by Danny Boyle, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple promises intense survival drama, high-voltage action, and a dark cinematic atmosphere that appeals to thriller and horror enthusiasts worldwide.
Audience & Market Appeal
In India, the film is likely to perform best in metro cities and multiplex chains, where Hollywood thrillers enjoy a loyal audience base. Horror and post-apocalyptic films have shown consistent performance in recent years, especially among young adults.
Box Office Expectations
While it may not open huge in single screens, the film’s global appeal could result in solid overseas numbers.
Expected Worldwide Opening: ₹15–30 crore
India Nett Opening Estimate: ₹4–6 crore
Lifetime Potential (India): ₹20–30 crore.
Border 2
Release Date: January 23, 2026 (Republic Day Weekend)
Genre: War / Action / Drama
Cast: Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Sonam Bajwa
Film Overview
The biggest release of the week is undoubtedly Border 2, the sequel to the iconic 1997 blockbuster Border. The original film holds a special place in Indian cinema for its patriotic theme and emotional portrayal of soldiers. The sequel aims to recreate that magic with a modern cinematic scale, advanced visuals, and a powerful ensemble cast.
Audience & Market Appeal
Releasing close to Republic Day gives Border 2 a massive advantage. Patriotic films traditionally perform exceptionally well during national holidays, especially in North India and mass circuits. With Sunny Deol returning in a powerful role and Varun Dhawan adding youth appeal, the film targets both nostalgic fans and the younger generation.
Box Office Expectations
Border 2 is expected to dominate screens and collections next week. Trade analysts see it as one of the biggest openers of early 2026.
Expected Opening Weekend Collection: ₹60–120 crore+
Lifetime Potential: ₹250–350 crore, depending on word of mouth and critical response.
Other Notable Releases
One Two Cha Cha Chaa
Genre: Family / Adventure Comedy
This film is aimed primarily at children and families, offering clean humor and simple storytelling. While not expected to create huge box office numbers, it could enjoy steady daytime shows in family-centric theatres.
Mayasabha – The Hall of Illusion
Genre: Psychological Thriller
A niche release focusing on intense storytelling and suspense. The film will appeal more to content-driven audiences than mass crowds, with its success depending largely on critical reviews and online buzz.
Box Office Trends to Watch Next Week
1. Holiday Advantage
The Republic Day weekend gives Border 2 a massive boost, potentially lifting overall box office collections across the country.
2. Genre Balance
With comedy, action-comedy, thriller, horror, and patriotic drama releasing in the same week, theatres will cater to a wide audience base, improving overall footfall.
3. Multiplex vs Single Screen Split
- Multiplexes: Likely to benefit from Happy Patel and 28 Years Later.
- Single Screens: Expected to be dominated by Border 2, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Box Office Forecast Summary
| Movie | Expected Opening Weekend |
|---|---|
| Border 2 | ₹60–120 crore+ |
| 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple | ₹15–30 crore (worldwide) |
| Rahu Ketu | ₹10–20 crore |
| Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos | ₹8–15 crore |
Final Verdict
Next week’s box office lineup offers a perfect mix of entertainment and emotion. While Rahu Ketu and Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos are set to provide lighthearted fun, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple will cater to thriller lovers. However, all eyes will be on Border 2, which has the potential to become the biggest box office event of early 2026.
With strong star power, holiday timing, and genre diversity, the coming week promises healthy collections and an exciting time for cinema lovers and trade analysts alike.