When Saiyaara released in July 2025, no one expected the film’s audience reactions to become a cultural spectacle. Within hours of the first shows, social media was flooded with viral clips showing viewers crying, shaking, and dramatically reacting to the film’s emotional scenes. One widely-shared video featured a man watching the movie while attached to an IV drip — a sight many labelled as “cringe,” yet it instantly captured the internet’s attention. (source)
Another set of viral clips showed theatres transforming into near-concert arenas, with fans shouting lines, cheering at emotional moments, and even dancing in the aisles. One viewer famously removed his shirt mid-screening, turning the moment into a meme across platforms. (source)
While many on the internet mocked the reactions, calling them exaggerated or embarrassing, the so-called “cringe factor” only amplified the film’s reach. Memes, edits, and commentary videos spread faster than traditional marketing ever could, keeping Saiyaara trending globally for weeks. The emotional upheaval — whether genuine or overblown — became the film’s biggest promotional engine. (source)
Interestingly, the filmmakers publicly denied accusations that these reactions were staged, asserting that all viral clips were authentic fan responses. (source)
Regardless of the debate, the outcome was undeniable: Saiyaara surged at the box office, eventually passing major global milestones and becoming one of 2025’s biggest hits. (source)
In hindsight, the “cringe” wasn’t a setback — it was a catalyst. Saiyaara stands as a modern example of how viral culture can turn raw, chaotic audience reactions into blockbuster success.