Blackmail box office collection Day 1: Irrfan Khan-starrer opens to a slow start with Rs 2.71 cr

Irrfan Khan's Blackmail, co-starring Kirti Kulhari and Arunoday Singh, opened in theatres to an average response. While the industry has given a thumbs up to the film, the reviews have been mild with most critics complaining of a predictable screenplay. But what remains a fact — a unanimous verdict — is Irrfan's inimitable acting prowess that steers the film through the end.[caption id="attachment_4362127" align="alignnone" width="825"] Irrfan Khan in a still from Blackmail. YouTube[/caption]The film has minted around Rs 2.81 crore on its opening day, which is decent enough for a niche genre like black comedy in India.Leading film trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted:In the film, Irrfan portrays the character of Dev who is so engrossed in his work that he can barely make time for his wife (played by Kulhari). One day, when he decides to surprise her by going home early with a bouquet of flowers, he is left shocked to watch his wife in bed with her ex-lover (Singh).While in the most stereotypical way, a man would opt for two options — either kill his wife or kill his wife's lover, Irrfan's character decides to blackmail the wife's lover. Portraying the unusual and complex role with ease, Irrfan has been receiving appreciation from all quarters.Co-produced by T-Series’ Bhushan Kumar and RDP Motion Pictures’ Abhinay Deo, Blackmail is directed by Abhinay Deo, who has previously helmed films like Delhi Belly and Force 2.(Also read: Blackmail director Abhinay Deo on Irrfan: He has redefined comic timing with his straight-faced delivery)