The Siam Ahmed starrer "Jongli" has made a promising debut, grossing $35,000 in its first three days after premiering in 40 theatres across 40 cities in North America (Canada and the US), all within top-tier cinema chains. Mohammad Oliullah Sajib, president of distributor Swapna Scarecrow, shared the figures today, citing box office tracker Comscore.

In a Facebook post, Sajib compared the film's opening to that of another Swapna Scarecrow release, "Priyotoma". He wrote, "Remember 'Priyotoma's' opening? In its first three days, it grossed $44,000 from 42 theatres across North America. In comparison, 'Jongli' brought in $35,000 from 33 theatres." 

"The reason 'Priyotoma' comes to mind is because of the emotional resonance it had with viewers, and 'Jongli' seems to be evoking a similar connection. People are genuinely touched by the plot of the film, and just like in Bangladesh, cinema-goers here are leaving the theatre with tearful eyes," he added.

"Priyotoma" eventually amassed a total of $132,000. Whether "Jongli" can reach that milestone remains to be seen, but by the end of this week, it will become clear if the film can become the sixth Bangladeshi title to enter North America's prestigious $100,000 club. Typically, the first week's earnings offer a strong indication of a film's overall trajectory.

As expected, a fierce battle for the top spot is underway between Toronto and New York, with Toronto currently leading based on opening weekend figures.

Sajib concluded, "'Jongli' is a beautiful experience — both in the cinema and at the box office. May this wonderful journey continue."

"Jongli" was released on April 25 across 40 theatres in Canada, the US, and the UK — marking the widest overseas release among this year's Eid films. Distributed by Swapna Scarecrow, it received the most extensive international rollout of all.

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‘Jongli' didn’t just find an audience, it built one: Siam Ahmed

In its first week, "Jongli" is being shown in five theatres in Canada, 28 in the US, and seven in the UK (in partnership with Reverie Films).

"Jongli" premiered in 40 theatres across 40 cities in these three countries, all within top-tier cinema chains. 

Key cities screening Jongli in Week 1:

Canada – Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver, Windsor

USA – New York City, Buffalo, Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Atlantic City, Kansas City

UK – London, Birmingham, Wembley, Luton, Feltham

Directed by "Shaan" famed M Raahim, "Jongli" is produced by Tiger Media and MIB Studios.