2.0: Rajinikanth-Akshay Kumar sci-fi magnum opus sees packed halls, celebratory rituals in early morning shows

Shankar's highly anticipated sci-fi directorial 2.0, with Rajinikanth, in the lead has finally hit the theatres. The sequel to Enthiran (2010) will see Chitti battle Bollywood's 'Khiladi' Akshay Kumar. Amy Jackson also plays a pivotal role in the film.

Rajinikanth in 2.0. YouTube

Made on a mammoth budget of almost Rs 600 crore, the film has already grossed over Rs 350 crore in pre-sale, writes Moneycontrol. 2.0 has managed to secure the widest Indian film theatrical release, beating Baahubali 2: The Conclusion.

The Indian Express reports that enthusiastic fans lined up shows as early as 4 am and theatres were packed. According to Times of India, a firm in Tamil Nadu declared 29 November an official holiday and sponsored its employees tickets.

Early reactions have also hit social media with users claiming it to be at par with Hollywood films. Fans heaped praises for Rajinikanth's acting, the direction and VFX effects.

1st Half Terrific , 2nd Half Outstanding ...Overall Blockbuster .... Thalaiva Strong Comeback 🔥🔥🔥💪💪💪 Shankar Sir Is Back 👍👌👌#TwitterTalk #2Point0Review #2Point0

— King Vizag (@IamLucky509) November 29, 2018

Do watch 2.0 in theatres.... Dont miss out on this... it was way beyond my expectations. VFX best to come out of India yet. #2Point0 #2Point0review . Unexpected climax. Please watch it in 3D. Loved the pacy screenplay. No songs during the runtime. — Vigilante (@famousaunty) November 29, 2018

#Rajinikanth #2Point0 Not a single moment wasted A true challenge to Hollywood from our Tamil industry#MegaBlockBuster2Point0 #2Point0Review #2Point0FromToday — Akshaya (@DCAkshaya) November 29, 2018

Thalaivar @rajinikanth Rock's again. #2Point0FDFS Throughly enjoyed to watching the movie. @shankarshanmugh used the latest technology to showcase the movie brilliantly. @akshaykumar role was commendable one. #2Point0Review #2Point0FromToday — Mr. Professional (@LiveRanjith_G) November 29, 2018

Amazing last 30 minutes! Would see it again just for that! Must watch film! #2Point0FDFS #2Point0Review #2Point0FromToday #IndiasPride2Point0 @2Point0movie @rajinikanth @akshaykumar @shankarshanmugh @arrahman @iamAmyJackson @editoranthony @madhankarky @resulp @LycaProductions pic.twitter.com/ryOY8UVmDS

— Venkatesh (CRV) (@crvgalatta) November 29, 2018

Every screening of 2.0, from South India to Mumbai was preceded by celebrations, with fans gathering to dance, burst crackers and offer prayers to a 'Rajini-rath'.

The movie has been paused for 3 minutes. Thalaiva's first look in the movie is being celebrated in style😁 #2Point0 #2Point0Release #2Point0FDFS #2Point0Fromtoday @TheQuint pic.twitter.com/FqE65cuHq0 — Bilal Jaleel (@baelal23) November 29, 2018

#2Point0FDFS Celebration#2Point0 #2Point0Review #2Point0FromToday pic.twitter.com/4lTNQSWzhT

— Complete Cinemas (@CompleteCinemas) November 29, 2018

The #2Point0FDFS Celebrations Started Already Chants For @akshaykumar Sir By #AkolaAkkians Outside Manek Cinemas Akola Big Celebrations On The Way From 10Am Love You @akshaykumar Sir And Best Wishes For 2.0 From #AkolaAkkians #2point0FromToday @AKFansGroup @Akkistaan pic.twitter.com/N9dkLAdQYf — Bhushan Khiladi 2.0 (@Bhushanadhau1) November 29, 2018

Thalaiva madness continues in Mumbai as people gear up for the first show of 2.0 #2Point0#2Point0FromTomorrow#2Point0FDFS@TheQuintpic.twitter.com/UvOXbuVfbf — Bilal Jaleel (@baelal23) November 29, 2018

(Also Read: 2.0 movie review: Shankar's story is pedestrian; but VFX, Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar carry the day)