There has been a great deal of confusion among distributors in Pakistan regarding the release of two of Bollywood’s biggest films, Chennai Express and Once Upon A Time In Mumbai Dobaara. There were reports last month that the two would not come to Pakistan on Eid. However, word has it that they will finally be showcased in Pakistani cinemas.
Local distributors have mutually agreed to screen both films a few days after Eid, so that the three Pakistani films, Main Hoon Shahid Afridi, Josh and Ishq-e-Khuda, can get a clear running and a due share in business — as competition from Bollywood films will come a week later.
“Since I am distributing Ishq-e-Khuda and I am also the importer of Chennai Express, it was in the favour of the entire industry to encourage budding Pakistani film-makers and release them at a later date,” told Amjad Rasheed, CEO IMGC Entertainment, to The Express Tribune. “Chennai Express is slated for a release approximately five days after Eid,” he added.
On the other hand OUTM Dobaara is being imported by Eveready Pictures and sources reveal that it is scheduled to release on Aug 18. Now Pakistani movies will have one full week of clear competition though it remains to be seen whether Main Hoon Shahid Afridi beat Bollywood charm and remain steady, just like Khuda Kay Liye sailed over Awarapan.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 3rd, 2013.
Like Life & Style on Facebook, follow @ETLifeandStyle on Twitter for the latest in fashion, gossip and entertainment.