Three common things between Raees and Kaabil

Is it going to be Shah Rukh Khan or Hrithik Roshan for you next week when, breaking the traditional Friday release-pattern, both the eagerly-awaited films release on Wednesday evening?

Here are three reasons why Raees and Kaabil are a battle between equals.

• Both Shah Rukh and Hrithik stand an equal chance of scoring at the boxoffice. Both need a hit, what with their 2016 releases under-performing at the boxoffice with Fan and Mohenjo Daro respectively.
   
• First time directors for both: Shah Rukh Khan has worked with Rahul Dholakia for the first time in Raees. Hrithik Roshan too has never worked with Sanjay Gupta before. Expect a freshness  in the collaborative spirit.
   
• Fresh pairing: Hrithik has never worked with Yaami Gupta before, and ditto for Shah Rukh Khan and Mahira Khan. So just savour the freshness of the pairs. But be warned: neither of the two leading ladies have much to do. This Republic Day, it’s the heroes’ show all the way.