Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi are back in the courtroom in Jolly LLB 3, this time as rival lawyers, bringing their signature desi charm and witty banter to the big screen. Reuniting with the ever-reliable Saurabh Shukla as Judge Tripathi, the film blends comedy with a hard-hitting narrative, tackling serious issues like farmer suicides and land acquisition.
On Day 1, Jolly LLB 3 earned around Rs 12.5 crore net, according to Sacnilk. While respectable for a courtroom comedy, this falls slightly short of Jolly LLB 2’s Rs 13.2 crore opening. The film recorded a 22.4% Hindi occupancy nationwide, with Delhi-NCR leading at 29.33% and Mumbai following at 23%. Surprisingly, there were less than 4,000 shows on the first day, fewer than comparable franchise films like Sitaare Zameen Par or Housefull 5.
The plot revolves around Janki, a widow seeking justice after her husband’s suicide, and the powerful Haribhai Khetan, whose ambitious project threatens her village. Writer-director Subhash Kapoor crafts a layered narrative, combining courtroom drama, humour, and real-life inspiration, loosely reflecting the 2011 land acquisition protests in Uttar Pradesh.
Akshay and Arshad shine in their roles, balancing sharp one-liners with emotional depth. Their evolution from cranky, middle-class lawyers to men driven by conscience and conviction feels authentic and unforced. Saurabh Shukla, as always, dominates the courtroom scenes, providing a perfect foil to the duo. Supporting actors, including Seema Biswas and Gajraj Rao, add gravitas to the story, making it more than just a comedy.
In essence, Jolly LLB 3 succeeds in blending laughter with social commentary, offering a sharp, engaging, and entertaining watch. While the opening figures are moderate compared to other big releases, the performances, chemistry, and impactful storytelling make it a worthy addition to the franchise.