Eid is the busiest time of the year at the multiplexes. Audiences get a variety of options to spend their time and money on. But while some films thrive and are beloved, others are criticized beyond measure by the masses.
Lately the case has been the former rather the latter. The main course served by studios on Eid seems like a bloated mess to both critics and audiences alike. The extremely crowded marketplace doesn’t do many favors to the smaller productions.
However, some gems are still able to shine through all this. So, let’s take a look at the public’s feedback for this Eid’s major releases.
Money Back Guarantee
Directed by Faysal Qureshi, the film boasted a star cast which included Fawad Khan, Wasim Akram, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Ayesha Omar and Gohar Rasheed. Money Back Guarantee was arguably the most star-studded affair at the cinemas this Eid.
The film seems to have generated a ton of conversation on social media. Many seemed to enjoy the film’s satirical tone in commenting on Pakistan’s politics.
People also praised Faysal’s comedy chops on display. However, one Twitter user also commented on the film seeming like multiple sketches strung together rather than a cohesive narrative.
There were some that outright disliked the film. One made a rather cheeky remark on Twitter using the film’s title while the other called it a total waste of time.
The film seems to be a mixed bag according to these audience reviews with some members genuinely having a good time. It is also a good sign, however, that the film did manage to get people talking. It is no small feat in today’s crowded media landscape.
Fawad Khan is still very much the movie star who can get people to pay attention.
Huey Tum Ajnabi
Huey Tum Ajnabi is the second project in recent times based on the 1971 Fall of Dhaka, after Khel Khel Mein in 2021. This film had a more fictitious and dramatic perspective, however.
It is an epic romance-action film which takes place during the tumultuous setting of 1971 Dhaka. The film stars Mikaal Zulfiqar and Sadia Khan as its leads. The film marked Samaa anchor Kamran Shahid’s directorial debut
The film was the cause of many discussions online. Some genuinely seemed to enjoy the film, praising the cast and dialogue in the film.
Another user also appreciated the love story in the film
One user on Twitter, however, went into great detail regarding their problems with the film. They went on to list some egregious claims, blaming the film to completely whitewash our history and absolve us of our wrongdoings. Khel Khel Mein was also accused of the same.
It seems that audiences, for the most part, are well aware of our history and do not take it kindly when they’re force-fed falsifications. Lollywood would be wise to remember that. Huey Tum Ajnabi seems to be performing well at the box office, as did Khel Khel Mein did before it.
Daadal
Daadal, directed by Abu Aleeha, is an action-packed edge-of-the-seat thriller starring Sonya Hussayn, Mohsin Abbas Haider and Shamoon Abbasi. The film seemed to provide a much-needed palate cleanser amidst the usual romcoms and musical films.
The cast is being lauded by audiences, namely Sonya and Mohsin. Reviews also haven’t been shy in criticizing the other big films while praising the thriller.
While there is not as much chatter around the film, word of mouth is strong. This may help the film in the coming weeks once people have more time after seeing the other blockbusters and when the film hits an OTT platform.
Lahore Qalandar
Directed by Shahid Rana and starring Shafqat Cheema and Saima Noor, Lahore Qalandar was a well nuanced Punjabi film in this year’s Eid slate.
Getting a handle on how this film is being received by audiences has been interesting. While the film doesn’t have a strong digital presence, local numbers and interest does suggest the film is doing quite well in Punjabi local circles. So, it’s fascinating seeing a film performing well in the digital age without the need of a social media presence. We will continue to see more such projects in the near future catering to this audience.
Our Verdict
While the buzz of the pre-pandemic Eid flicks is still not fully back, all hope is not lost. Audiences are still eager to return to the big screen for Eid. Which film did you go and see this Eid? Share your own reviews in the comments.
