The pre-release event of Game Changer was held on a grand scale in Dallas, USA, drawing an estimated 10,000 attendees.
This first-of-its-kind event was expected to create a buzz and boost box office collections through advance bookings. However, contrary to expectations, the advance booking scenario has not been encouraging.
The public seemed to treat the pre-release event and the film’s premiere as separate attractions, attending the event in large numbers primarily because of free entry.
This lack of enthusiasm for advance bookings raises questions about the effectiveness of such promotional strategies.
The next major event, the pre-release gala of Daaku Maharaaj, is scheduled at the same venue. It remains to be seen whether this event will successfully contribute to the film’s opening collections and advance ticket sales.
These events are organized through funds raised from sponsors and food stall owners who set up stalls at the venue. This arrangement allows free public entry while generating profits for event managers and food vendors, along with free publicity for the films.
While the model appears to be working well on the surface, its ultimate success hinges on whether the hype translates into strong box office openings—a result not evident in the case of Game Changer so far.
Adding to the controversy, allegations of manipulation in Game Changer's advance bookings are circulating on social media.
A netizen shared screenshots on their X account, alleging a "bulk bookings scam."
The user pointed out an unusual pattern where front rows in theaters were fully booked, leaving the more desirable back rows empty.
The post stated, “Thread of #GameChanger USA Bulk Bookings Scam. All these theaters have only front rows booked, leaving the back rows/main seats empty. Screenshots from the same theater, comparing the same screen, eliminate any chance of a glitch or unavailability.”
Traditionally, back and top rows are booked first, while front rows are usually the last to fill. The observed pattern suggests artificial bookings, potentially designed to give the illusion of demand while facilitating real audience bookings without disruptions.
Local Telugu communities in the USA have expressed disappointment, calling the situation a "scam" and a "deceptive practice" that undermines trust in such promotional events.
The true impact of this controversy on Game Changer's overall success remains to be seen.