The Unforgettable Flop of Salman Khan’s Movie ‘Marigold’ and Its Box Office
In 2007, Bollywood witnessed one of its most notable box office flops with the release of “Marigold,” starring Salman Khan and American actress Ali Larter.
Directed by American filmmaker Willard Carroll, “Marigold” was an ambitious crossover film that aimed to blend Bollywood’s vibrant storytelling with a Western narrative style. However, the film’s performance was far from what the makers had hoped for.
“Marigold” tells the story of an American actress who discovers herself on a trip to India, where she meets an Indian prince, played by Salman Khan. Despite the intriguing premise and the star power of Khan, the film struggled to resonate with audiences both in India and internationally.
In India, “Marigold” earned a mere Rs 90 lakh, failing to even cross the Rs 1 crore mark. Globally, the film’s earnings were slightly better but still underwhelming, grossing Rs 2.29 crore.
The film’s lackluster performance had significant repercussions. For Salman Khan, it remains his biggest flop in the last 25 years, a stark contrast to his otherwise successful career in Bollywood.
For Willard Carroll, “Marigold” was a dream project that turned into his last film as a director, writer, or producer. The Hollywood Reporter critiqued the film for its apparent cultural disconnect, suggesting that Carroll was “slumming in a genre outside his own culture.”
Ali Larter, known for her roles in “Resident Evil” and “Final Destination,” did not venture back into Hindi cinema after “Marigold.” Although she continued her career in Hollywood, including a role in the TV show “Heroes” and returning to the “Resident Evil” franchise, her Bollywood journey ended with this film.
“Marigold” serves as a reminder of the challenges in creating successful crossover films. The blend of Bollywood’s flair with Western storytelling requires a delicate balance, one that “Marigold” could not achieve.
As the film industry continues to evolve, “Marigold” remains a case study in cross-cultural filmmaking and the unpredictable nature of the movie business.
