As the festive season of Bakra Eid approaches, movie enthusiasts in Pakistan are gearing up for an exciting line-up of films set to hit the screens. However, the simultaneous release of multiple movies has sparked a debate on whether this strategy will result in a boom or bust for the film industry.
While the release of multiple movies during Bakra Eid offers an exciting prospect for moviegoers, it also poses a significant challenge for the Pakistani film industry. Stay with us to find out more.
Practice of Releasing Movies on Eid
The practice of releasing multiple movies on the same day can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides a wide variety of options for moviegoers, fostering a competitive environment that can potentially boost the quality of films produced. On the other hand, it may lead to a dilution of audience engagement and a decrease in the overall box office numbers as viewers are forced to choose between several options.
The Pakistani film industry has witnessed a resurgence in recent years, with a steady increase in the production of local films. This growth has been accompanied by a rise in the number of cinema screens across the country, providing a platform for these films to reach a wider audience. However, the simultaneous release of multiple films during festive seasons like Bakra Eid could potentially hamper this progress.
Major Eid Movie Releases
The slate of local films releasing this Bakra Eid includes a diverse range of genres and star-studded casts. Some of the highly anticipated films are:
Babylicious: A romantic drama starring Shahroz Sabzwari and Syra Yousuf, with Indian American actor Ankur Rathee in a supporting role.
Teri Meri Kahaniyaan: An experimental anthology film featuring three stories directed by Nabeel Qureshi, Nadeem Baig, and Marina Khan, and starring Wahaj Ali, Mehwish Hayat, Sheheryar Munawar, Ramsha Khan, Salman Saqib (Mani), and Hira Mani. The trailer has generated hype as Wahaj Ali gears for his big screen appearance.
Taxali: A crime-thriller set in Lahore, featuring Ayesha Omar, Yasir Hussain, Nayyer Ejaz, Iffat Omar, and Mehar Bano.
Allahyar and 100 Flowers of God: A sequel to the critically acclaimed 2018 film Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor, and Pakistan’s first-ever stereoscopic 3D film.
VIP: A mass political entertainer directed by Rana Kamran and co-director Saqib Zafar, starring Gul e Rana, Danish Nawaz, and Hina Rizvi.
Madaari: A thriller set in the political turmoil of Karachi in 2008, directed by Seraj Us Salikin and starring newcomer Ibad Alam Sher.
In addition to these local films, the Hollywood blockbuster Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny will also be released during Bakra Eid, starring Harrison Ford and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Ineffective Results for Eid Movie Releases
Industry experts argue that the practice of releasing several films on the same day can result in a situation where none of the movies are able to achieve their full potential at the box office. This can be particularly detrimental for smaller-budget films, which may struggle to find an audience amidst the fierce competition.
Moreover, the overcrowded release schedule can lead to a lack of effective marketing and promotion for individual films. With so many movies vying for attention, it becomes increasingly difficult for each film to create a buzz and generate interest among potential viewers.
We wish all cast and crew good luck for this festive season, but moving on can we be a bit more judicious with our release dates?
