Tamil superstar Rajinikanth surprised fans by turning up at a cinema in Chennai on Friday night to watch his latest blockbuster, 'Jailer 2'. The visit reportedly marked the first time in four decades that the actor had watched one of his films alongside fans in a theatre. 

Rajinikanth arrived without much fanfare at the cinema in Phoenix Marketcity, Velachery, where he was welcomed by a small group of people, including music composer Anirudh Ravichander.

A video shared by production house Sun Pictures showed the actor being escorted into the theatre before settling down to enjoy the film with the audience.

The special outing comes as 'Jailer 2', directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, continues its successful theatrical run. The action entertainer has crossed the Rs 500 crore mark at the worldwide box office, further cementing Rajinikanth's star power.

Beyond its commercial success, the film has also received enthusiastic reactions from several prominent figures in the Indian film industry.

Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh was among those who praised Rajinikanth after watching the film. Sharing his excitement during the interval, he wrote on X, "Watching Jailor 2 - its interval now - Maha Blockbuster ….. Rajni Sir’s aura is on another level- Dir Nelson & the team - take a bow !!!!! Do yourselves a favour -watch the film- coz It’s HUKUM -TIGER KA HUKUM."

After the screening, Deshmukh returned to the platform with another post celebrating the theatrical experience.

"B L O C K B U S T E R! Had such a great outing !!! I have clapped, whistled and cheered at every entry- it was a celebration in the theatre - superstardom thy name RAJNI sir …. #Jailer2," he wrote.

Kamal Haasan also joined the celebrations, congratulating his longtime friend Rajinikanth and the film's team on its worldwide success.

In a post on X, Haasan extended his wishes to director Nelson Dilipkumar, composer Anirudh Ravichander and production banner Sun Pictures.

Responding to the message, Nelson wrote, "Thank you so much @ikamalhaasan sir, for your kind words. Coming from a legend like you, it means a lot! #jailer2."

Actor Dhanush, who attended the first-day-first-show screening, was equally impressed. He described the film as a treat for Rajinikanth's admirers, writing, "JAILER 2 is a MUST MUST MUST watch. BLOCKBUSTER. A FEAST for every Thalaivar fan."

Filmmaker Lingusamy also applauded the film, particularly its use of Rajinikanth's screen presence. Comparing it with the actor's iconic film 'Baadsha', he praised the first half and called the second half an added bonus.

Director Venkat Prabhu shared his appreciation for Rajinikanth, Nelson and Anirudh, while filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj praised the superstar's performance and the film's energetic presentation.

The opening-day screenings also attracted several film personalities, including actors Vishnu Vishal and Soori, director Karthik Subbaraj and producer Naga Vamsi.