The first quarter (Jan – Mar) of the year 2016 has passed which proved rather dismal when comes to the number of Urdu films released. At the start of the year 2016, six Urdu films were announced to be released till March.

January – Ho Mann Jahan (1st January), Badal Revenge of the Worthless (15th January), Hijrat (22 January)
February – Fiker Not (11 February), Bachaana (26 February 2016)
March – Salute (23rd March 2016)

However only three Urdu films are released in the first quarter of 2016 i.e Ho Mann Jahan (1st January 2016), Bachaana (26th February 2016) and Fiker Not (11th March 2016). Out of these Ho Mann Jahan and Bachaana proved successful, while Fiker Not a low budget film proved dead flop.

Ho Mann Jahan earned nearly 21 crore (16 crore in Pakistan and 5 crore in the rest of the world), while Bachaana earned around 8.50 crore.

One major reason for such low numbers of releases was two back to back cricket tournaments. In February 2016, the first edition of Pakistan Super League was organized which was followed by the Cricket T20 World Cup in March 2016. Due to these cricketing events, release of few films was postponed.

Now the second quarter for 2016 has started in which four Urdu films are announced to be released in April and May. Due to the Holy month of Ramazan no film is releasing in June.

So here is the summary of the four films due to release in April and May 2016.

Maalik (مالک)
Maalik (مالک) is an Urdu film releasing on the 8th April 2016. The highlight of the film is the comeback of Aashir Azeem to almost after two decades. Aashir Azeem earned fame from the PTV Quetta center drama Dhuwaan (دھوّاں) in 1994.

The film has five songs composed by Sahir Ali Bagga, also featuring Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.

Film: Maalik (مالک)
Starring: Ashir Azeem, Farhan Ally Agha, Sajid Hassan, Hassan Niazi, Adnan Shah Tipu, Bushra Ashir Azeem, Ehteshamuddin, Rashid Farooqi, Mariam Ansari, Tatmain ul Qalb, Lubna Aslam, Erum Azam, Pakiza Khan
Genre: Action Thriller, Drama
Written by: Ashir Azeem
Screenplay by: Ashir Azeem
Directed by: Ashir Azeem
Produced by: Media Hub
Shot in: Karachi & Balochistan
Release Date: 8th April 2016

Hijrat (ہجرت)
Hijrat (ہجرت) is an upcoming film which was under production for past three years or so. Farooq Mengal directorial debut who before this film has directed several television dramas. The trailer of Hijrat is released today while the film will release on 21st January 2015.

Hijrat is an action love story that plays out in the foreground of an exodus that rendered millions homeless during the Afghan war. It touches upon the lives of those whose spirits were broken by the homes they lost and whose hearts were broken by the shelter they found.

The film is an action romantic story in the backdrop of Afghan refugees. Asad Zaman the hero of this film is an Afghan national who has worked in several Urdu dramas before Hijrat. Asad Zaman is fluent in Dari, Pashto and Urdu. Models Rabia Butt and Rubab Ali are playing the female leads where Rabia Butt is playing the role of an Indian doctor working in Afghan refugees camps. The film also features an item song shot on Sana Nawaz.

Hijrat was due to relesae on 21st January 2016, but eventually postponed and is now releasing on 22nd April 2016.

Film: Hijrat (ہجرت)
Release Date: 22 April 2016
Cast: Rabia Butt, Asad Zaman, Rubab Ali, Nadeem Baig, Jamal Shah, Ayub Khouso, Durdana Butt, Azra Aftab, Zeb Rehman, Mahjabeen, Saima Balouch
Genre: Romance, Drama, Action
Shot in: Karachi, Baluchistan (Pakistan), Istanbul (Turkey)
Directed & Produced by: Farouq Mengal for FM studios
Distributor: Everready Productions & Hum Films

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXFaTmIv58c&nohtml5=False

Mahe Meer (ماہ میر)
Mah-e-Meer  is a film based on the life and the ‘Ka’laam’ of poet Meer Taqi Meer. The film is under production for past two years.

The highlight of Mahe Meer is the script of Sarmad Sehbai. Iman Ali is appearing in a film after a gap of five years, where Bol in 2011 was her last film.

Starring: Iman Ali, Fahad Mustafa, Sanam Saeed, Ally Khan, Huma Nawab & Manzar Sehbai
Directed By: Anjum Shahzad, Sarmad Sehbai
Written By: Sarmad Sehbai
Produced By: Khurram Rasheed, Sahir Rasheed, Badar Ikram

Hotal (ہوٹل)
Hotal (ہوٹل) is a Hindi/Urdu film which is under production from past two years. Last year it was screened in New Delhi film festival in New Delhi, India where it also bagged an award.

Hotal was due to release on 1st April 2016 but it was postponed after the tragic Gulshane Iqbal Park terrorist attacks in Lahore. It can be considered as a comeback film for filmstar Meera. Her last major appearance was in film Ishq Khuda in 2013, though she also appeared in a cameo in the film Dekh Magar Pyar Se in 2015.

Hotal also features an item song Maum Bati shot on Morrocan artist Wiam Dahmani. Now it is releasing on 8th April 2016 or 13 May 2016.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVeE_Tx3jdM

Rashid Nazir Ali

2018 has so far proved a mixed year for the Pakistani cinema with few hit and miss films. The last major Urdu film of 2018 was Motorcycle Girl released almost two months ago on 20th April 2018. No Urdu film was released in May 2018 due to the holy Islamic Month of Ramazan. The two month long dry season will be over on upcoming Eidul Fitr 2017 where a handsome number of films are releasing. Eidul Fitr is the major festive occasion in our country followed by Eidul Azha. It is the time of joy, family reunion, outing, recreation and vacation. The long holidays of Eidul Fitr benefit the entertainment industry as well majorly cinemas and theaters. To utilize these holidays the big banner films are scheduled to release on Eid. Eidul Fitr has historically been the most successful time for the Pakistani cinema in an year. However from past one decade, Eidul Azha has overtaken the Eidul Fitr with respect to the business of local films. The major films which were once specific to Eidul Fitr are now shifted to Eidul Azha. The most significant reason is the direct competition with the Bollywood Eid film. Every Eidul Fitr some Khan starer Bollywood film gallops the bulk of the cinema shows and business. On 2015’s Eidul Fitr, Bollywood’s Bajrangi Bhaijan (BB) emerged blockbuster. Due to the enormous success of BB, many shows of the two Urdu films Bin Roye and Wrong No. also released on Eidul Fitr were shifted to BB. Though eventually Wrong No. and Bin Roye also proved successful but their business was impacted by BB. On 2016’s Eidul Fitr, Bollywood’s Sultan made many new records of collections like most earning in a single day, most earning on a weekend. The film earned around 34 crore and became the highest earning Bollywood film in the Pakistan. Two Urdu films Swaal 700 Crore Dollar Ka (SSCDA) and Blind Love were also due to release on Eidul Fitr in 2016. But due to unavailability of shows Blind Love was not released and the only film SSCDA struggled against Bollywood’s Sultan. The situation changed in 2017 as the government has not allowed the release of Bollywood Eid film Tubelight and hence no Bollywood film was released on Eidul Fitr 2017. This year Eidul Fitr will fall on 15th or 16th June 2018 Here is the summary of the films coming on Eidul Fitr. Hollywood Hollywood films are only released in the multiplexes having 3D screens. Hollywood films have their own dedicated audience. This Eidul Fitr only one Hollywood film Jurrasic World – Fallen Kingdom is releasing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vn9mMeWcgoM Bollywood: No release Like 2017, no Bollywood film is releasing on Eidul Fitr. In 2017, the government did not allow the release of Bollywoods’ Tubelight on the Eidul Fitr. There was no official statement on its release and it was expected to hit theaters after two weeks of Eid. However Tubelight‘s business was not as per expectations in India and the rest of world and consequently the film was not released in Pakistan even after Eidul Fitr. This year the Federal Government has defined the regulations of films releasing on Eid. As per the official notification released three weeks ago, no Bollywood film will be screened till after two weeks on both Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha. However last week upon the pressure of Bollywood’s film distributors the government has reduced the ban to one week. The 2018 Bollywood’s Eid release is Race 3 which now will release in Pakistan on 22nd/23rd June 2018 one week after Eidul Fitr. Bollywood films have an all-seasons and all-weathered loyal audience in Pakistan across all sections of the society. Despite hostile aggression from India on borders Bollywood films earn huge in Pakistan from the posh areas multiplexes to crowded areas old single screen cinemas. The prime example of the bonding of the Bollywood fans in Pakistan is the business of 2016 Eidul Fitr’s release Sultan which earned a mammoth 34 crore in three weeks and became the highest earning Bollywood film in Pakistan to-date. Before its release filmi circles were predicting a possible low turn out for the film as Indian army butchered around 120 Kashmiris in the Indian held Kashmir within a week around Eidul Fitr while thousands of Kashmiris lost eye sight due to the use of the pallet guns by the Indian forces. Despite continued state terrorism and blood bath in Kashmir on Eidul Fitr 2016 by the Indian forces, Sultan received a massive response on Eidul Fitr in Pakistan. The film registered the largest ever opening weekend for any film by earning 7.5 crore in just four days again proving the massive appeal of Bollywood films in Pakistan. So even though Race3 will release one week after the Eidul Fitr, the film distributors are hopeful about its massive business. Urdu films Urdu is the national language spoken in all the regions of Pakistan and Urdu cinema is gradually recovering after its extinction in the last decade. In 2017 two Urdu films Yalghaar and Mehrunnisa V Lub U (MVLU) were released. In the absence of the Bollywood film both proved successful where Yalghaar earned 17-19 crore and MVLU earned 13 crore. The main business circuit of Urdu films is Sindh, Punjab and Islamabad Capital Territory. Urdu films have a limited release in the cantonment areas of Balochistan and KPK In the absence of any Bollywood film, four Urdu films were announced to be released on the Eidul Fitr 2018. All four films are of diverse genres providing ample choice to cine goers to choose one as per their choice. 7 Din Mohabbat In (سات دن محبت ان) Starring superstar Mahira Khan alongside her Ho Mann Jahan co-star Sheheryar Munawar, 7 Din Mohabbat In (7DMI) is all set to release on Eid ul Fitr. It has been directed by duo of Meenu Gaur and Farjad Nabi, whose debut directorial venture Zinda Bhaag (2013) became the first Pakistani film to be submitted for an Oscar consideration. Written by Fasih Bari Khan, the romantic comedy shows the life of Tipu (essayed by Munawar) on a quest to find his true love and the troubles he encounters during his journey. The film also marks Mira Sethi’s big screen debut and has an all-star cast that includes names such as Amna Ilyas, Jawed Sheikh, Hina Dilpazeer, Aamir Qureshi, Rimal Ali, Adnan Shah Tipu, Mira Sethi and Beo Zafar. 7 Din Mohabbat In will be Mahira and Sheheryar’s second film together after Asim Raza’s Ho Mann Jahaan (2016), where Sheheryar Munawar is appearing in a film after a gap of 2.5 years. 7DMI is the debut film for Hina Dilpazeer, Rimal Ali and Mira Sethi. Transgender artist Rimal Ali will perform on a dance number in this film too. It is also the first film by Herald Entertainment Company and Dawn Films, a film house of Dawn Media and Publications. Outside Pakistan, 7DMI will be distributed by B4U movies. 7DMI will also release in North America, Europe, Middle East, Australia/NZ, Africa and South East Asia. Film: 7 Din Mohabbat In (سات دن محبت ان) Release Date: 15th or 16th June 2017 Genre: Romcom Cast: Mahira Khan, Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui, Mira Sethi, Amna Ilyas, Jawed Sheikh, Hina Dilpazeer, Aamir Qureshi, Adnan Shah Tipu, Beo Zafar Music by: Arshad Mehmood,Shuja Haider,Shani Arshad, Waqar Ali, Sheraz Uppal Written by: Fasih Bari Khan Directed by: Meenu Gaur, Farjad Nabi Producers: Nazafreen Saigol, Lakhani Shakeel, Masud Hussain, Sheikh Amjad Rasheed Production House: Dawn Films Distributor: Dawn Films & IMGC Global Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/7DinMohabbatIn/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Qa_DNWlYlA Azaadi (آزادی ) Moammar Rana and Sonya Hussyn starer Azaadi is also releasing on Eidul Fitr. The film is about finding freedom and is a love story set against the backdrop of the freedom struggle in Jammu and Kashmir. The titular character Azaad is being essayed by Moammar Rana. He is shown to be a freedom fighter who chooses Kashmir over love, career, and family, whereas Sonya Hussyn is essaying a British journalist of Pakistani roots who loves Azaad. Besides Rana and Hussyn, veteran actor Nadeem will be essaying Moammar’s father in the film. By the looks of the trailer, Azaadi seems to be packed with a lot of action and impressive visual effects. Azaadi is directed by Imran Malik the son of late great director Parvez Malik. Imran’s first film as director was Tere Bin Jiya Na Jaye in 2005 and Azaadi is his second film. Azaadi is Sonya Hussyn second film after Moor (2015). Film: Azaadi (آزادی ) Release Date: 15th or 16th June 2017 Genre: Action Cast: Moammar Rana, Sonya Hussyn, Nadeem, Maryam Ansari, Erum Azam, Ali Fateh, Maryam Khalif Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga Written by: Wajid Zuberi Directed by: Imran Malik Producers: Irfan Malik, Imran Malik Production House: Parvez Malik Films Distributor: ARY Films Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Azaadi-803318393140295/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U71A8kn_h64 Wajood (وجود) Wajood is directed by Javed Sheikh where his last film as director Khullay Aasman Ke Neeche was released in 2008. Starring Danish Tamoor, Saeeda Imtiaz and Aditi Singh in the key roles, Wajood has veteran artists Shahid, Nadeem and Javed Sheikh in the supporting cast. A romantic thriller it is shot in Turkey. Danish Taimoor, will be seen essaying the character of a pilot, while Jawed Sheikh is possibly essaying the villain’s role. It is the first film of Saeeda Imtiaz in a lead role, as she had earlier appeared in a dance number in Raasta (2017). Indian artist Aditi Singh is also part of this film. Frieha Altaf is making her big screen debut from this film, while Ali Saleem is also appearing in a key role. Like the past films of Javed Sheikh, Wajood has melodious music well shot on the scenic locations of Turkey. Film: Wajood (وجود) Release Date: 15th or 16th June 2017 Genre: Romantic/Thriller Cast: Danish Tamoor, Saeeda Imtiaz, Aditi Singh, Nadeem, Shahid, Javed Sheikh, Frieha Altaf, Shaheen Khan, Asad Mehmood, Ali Saleem Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga Written by: Babar Kashmiri Directed by: Javed Sheikh Producers: Moomal Sheikh and Shahzad Sheikh Production House: Distributor: Distribution Club Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wajoodthefilm/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL9gShbxYR0 Na Band Na Baraati (نا بینڈ نا باراتی) Na Band Na Baraati is a romantic comedy feature film. The film trails lives of a few Pakistani families in Canada. It has a mix of culture, compassion, love, mischief’s, and entertainment. Starring Mikaal Zulfiqar, Nayab Khan and Shayan Khan in key roles, it has established names like Qavi Khan, Atiqa Odho and Mehmood Akhter in the supporting cast. The film is shot entirely in Canada. It is the Mikaal Zulfiqar’s first Pakistani film in a leading role. Earlier he has appeared in supporting roles in God Father The Legend Continues (2007) and Cake (2018). The film was due to release on 6th July 2018, however its release date is pushed back as another film Parwaaz Hai Junoon by the same distributor is delayed. Film: Na Band Na Baraati (نا بینڈ نا باراتی) Release Date: 15th or 16th June 2017 Genre: Romcom Cast: Mikaal Zulfiqar, Ali Kazmi, Shayan Khan, Qavi Khan, Atiqa Odho, Komal Farooqi, Azra Mohyeddin, Nayab Khan, Saram Jaffery, Anzelikha Tahir, Kashif Ahmed and Zuhair Jaffery Music by: Ayaz Sonu Written by: Harish Kumar Patel Directed by: Mahmood Akhtar Producers: Khawar Farooqi, Nighat Farooqi & Zain Farooqi Production House: Zashko Films Distributor: Hum Films & Everready Films Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nbnbmovie/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdJFbA0Jtx8 Punjabi Films Punjabi is the largest spoken language in Pakistan. For almost five decades Punjabi cinema has proved to be the backbone of our cinema and film industry. The success of Punjabi films also provided a space for Urdu cinema to flourish. However after Urdu cinema, Punjabi film making has also been extinct till the end of last decade. Unlike Urdu cinema there has been no considerable effort to revive the Punjabi cinema. Every year very few Punjabi films of inferior quality are produced which hardly add any value towards the dysfunct Punjabi cinema. Three Punjabi films are expected to release on this Eid which are traditional gandasa films. The punjabi films will only release in the Punjab province. The name of the Punjabi films are Faisla Gujjar Da (فیصلہ گجر دا), Malik Bahadur (ملک بہادر) and Market (مارکیٹ). The trailers of the Punjabi films are not available online. Pashto Films Pashto is the second largest spoken language in Pakistan after Punjabi. Pashto cinema was the third most successful film circuit after Punjabi and Urdu films. Unlike Urdu and Punjabi cinema which faded a decade ago, Pashto cinema has survived well despite dismal situation of law and order in its circuit. Pashto cinema seldom gets the attention of the mainstream media, still Pashto films have successfully retained their viewership . Pashto cinema has its own dedicated circuit in the province of KPK, Balochistan (Quetta) and Sindh (Karachi only) where native Pashto speaker live in large numbers. Apart from Pakistan, Pashto films sometimes are also released in UAE (Dubai/Sharjah) and Afghanistan (Kabul). The leading artists of the Pashto cinema are Shahid Khan, Jahangir Jani, Arbaaz Khan and Ajab Gull. Four Pashto films are expected to release on this film namely Paidageer (پیدا گیر)  , Ziddi O Badmash (ضدی او بدمعاش), Zandaan (زندان) and Kashar Khan Loafar Da (کشر خان لوفر دے). The trailer of all these Pashto films are available online, but here only one poster is added. So it sums up this compilation of the films coming on Eidul Fitr. All the four Urdu films of Eid are of diverse genre so hopefully we can find one of our choice. Wish all the readers a happy and prosperous Eidul Fitr. Keep supporting Pakistani cinema. Thanks for your time.   Rashid Nazir Ali

November the eleventh and the second last month of the year 2017 has started. With respect to the Urdu cinema, the last films were released on the 1st September 2017 on the Eidul Azha holidays. Both films Punjab Nahin Janungi (PNJ) and Namaloom Afraad 2 (NMA2) proved successful. Despite this grand success there has been only one Urdu film Saawan (a non-commercial film), released in the rest of September and the month of October. The absence of a new Urdu film provided a longer run to PNJ and NMA2 and both earned above 20 crore, where PNJ earned above 30 crore on the local box office

Coming to November, there were announcements of release of atleast four Urdu films Pari, Tum Hee Ho, Verna and Shor Sharaba. With November starting, only one film (Verna) is releasing while the rest are postponed. It leaves a lot of question marks on the planning of our film makers. It is highly unprofessional to announce the release dates and then cancel it when the end product is not ready. Films like Tum Hee Ho and Shor Sharaba have three announced release dates, which were cancelled later.

So only one Urdu film is releasing in the month of November.

Verna (ورنہ)
Verna, a film by Shoaib Mansoor is perhaps the most awaited film for a while. It is the third film by Shoaib Mansoor, after Khuda Ke Liye (2007) and Bol (2011). Shoaib is known for selective but quality work. His films are not mainstream commercial films but still prove successful and thus Verna has huge expectations associated with it.

After Shoaib Mansoor, Mahira Khan is the other big aspect of Verna. Mahira is appearing in an Urdu film after a gap of almost two years where her last film was Ho Man Jahan (1st January 2016), though she did a cameo in Actor in Law (September 2017). Like the previous films of Shoaib Mansoor, Verna also covers a serious social subject. But Shoaib Mansoor is known for delivering a complicated subject in a subtle manner without being too preachy.

The two male leads of Verna are Haroon Shahid and Zarrar Khan, both making big screen debuts. Haroon Shahid is a singer and Verna is also his first acting assignment. Zarrar Khan has worked in few television dramas like Meri Bahan Maya, Tere Jane Ke Baad before taking a break from showbiz. With Verna, Zarrar Khan is returning to showbiz after a gap of few years. Veteran artist Rasheed Naz is also a part of this film.

Film: Verna
Release Date: 17th November 2017
Genre: Drama
Cast: Mahira Khan,Haroon Shahid,Zarrar Khan,Naimal Khawar,Rasheed Naz
Singers:
Music Director:
Written By: Shoaib Mansoor
Directed by: Shoaib Mansoor
Produced by: Hum Films and Shoman (Shoaib Mansoor) Productions
Production House: Shoman Productions
Distributor: Hum Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VernaTheMovie/

Thanks for your time and reading.

Rashid Nazir Ali

November the second last month of the year looks a promising month as five Urdu films are expected to release in this month.

Four out of these Urdu films have confirmed their release dates while release date for one film is not announced yet. The total number of these films is more than any other month of the year 2016. On the whole on all the four fridays of this month a new Urdu film is releasing.

So lets go through the releases of this month

Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)
Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)(The Elephant in the Room) is directed by Menu Gaur and Farjad Nabi the same team which directed a Pakistani Urdu/Punjabi film Zinda Bhaag in 2013.

Jeewan Hathi (The Elephant in the Room) is written by Faseeh Bari Khan a famous writer of Pakistani drama industry. His most famous drama is Qudusi Sahib Ki Bewah. Jeewan Hathi also stars seasoned artists Hina Dilpazeer with acclaimed Indian artist Naseerudin Shah.

The film is produced by the Indian television channel Zee Zindagi under the initiative of Zeal for Unity. In 2015 Zee Zindagi announced an initiative of Zeal for Unity, producing around 12 films for its short films festival where 6 to be directed/produced in Pakistan by Pakistani directors and team and six to be produced in India with Indian director and team. Jeevan Hathi is one of these short films.

Film: Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)
Release Date: 4 November 2016
Genre: Dark Comdey
Language: Urdu
Starring: Naseerudin Shah, Hina Dilpazeer, Samiya Mumtaz, Adnan Jafar, Saifee Hassan, Nazarul Hassan, Fawad Khan, Kiran Tabeer
Directed by: Meenu Gaur & Farjad Nabi
Co-Produced by: Vikas Sharma
Produced by: Shailja Kejriwala, Mazhar Zaidi
Matteela Produced by: Mazhar Zaidi
DOP: Rana Kamran
Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga
Edited by: Armaghan Hasan
Written by: Faseeh Bari Khan
Zeal For Unity Presents A Matteela Films Production
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeewanhathi/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEV935_Z86Q

Lahore Se Aagey (لاہور سے آگے)
Lahore Se Aagey (LSA) is the sequel of the film Karachi Se Lahore (کراچی سے لاہور) (KSL) released on 31st July 2015. KSL proved hit by earning nearly 10 crore.

KSL was a road trip romantic comedy story from Karachi to Lahore. LSA will take the journey further from Lahore to the scenic valley of Swat in the north west of our country. It is the story of the character of Moti (Yasir Hussain) from KSL. Apart from Yasir Hussain, no other artist from KSL is in LSA.

Paired with Yasir Hussain, Saba Qamar known for her powerful performances in many television plays is appearing in a lead role for the very first time. She earlier appeared in a supporting role in the film Manto (2015).

Veteran artist Rubina Ashraf is also making a big screen debut from this film in a supporting role.

Like Karachi Se Lahore, Lahore Se Aagay is also penned down by Yasir Hussain، directed by Wajahat Rauf. The other similarity among both films is presence of two dance numbers. Karachi Se Lahore has Rabbi Rali and Tuti Frooti, Lahore Se Aagay has Qalabaaz and Marcharapa.

Film: Lahore Se Aagay (لاہور سے آگے)
Release Date: 11 November 2016
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Language: Urdu
Starring:Yasir Hussain,Saba Qamar,Mubashir Malik,Rubina Ashraf,Behroze Sabzwari,Abdullah Farhatullah,Noor ul Hassan,Atiqa Odho
Directed by:Wajahat Rauf
Produced by:Wajahat Rauf,Salman Iqbal,Asfand Farouk
Written by:Yasir Hussain
Music by:Shiraz Uppal
Cinematography:Asrad Khan
Edited by:Hasan Ali Khan
Production company:Showcase Productions
Distributed by:ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LahoreSeAagey/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc7JbvZD0PM

Rahm (رحم)
Rahm (رحم) is based on the drama ‘Measure for Measure’ written by Shakespere. Seasoned artists like Sanam Saeed and Sajid Hassan are playing the leading roles in this film. The film is shot entirely in Lahore and its crew comprises of Pakistani and British technicians.

The website of the film describes it as

A Sufi Adaptation of Shakespeare – a plea for tolerance from the heart of the Muslim world.

Lahore at an imagined time ….

A kindly Governor goes into hiding after appointing a younger, puritanical Deputy in his place who is convinced that Lahore needs harsh punishments and strict implementation of laws.

Fear grips the city as a young man is condemned to death for getting his fiancee pregnant on the accusations of her parents. When his sister Sameena goes to meet the Deputy Governor to beg for mercy, he finds her physically irresistible and asks to sleep with her in exchange for commuting the death sentence on her brother. Sameena has to outwit him, and helped by the ex- Governor she tries to turn the tables in a gripping climax.

Starring: Sanam Saeed as Sameena,Sajid Hasan as Governor/Fakir,Sunil Shanker as Qazi Ahad,Nayyar Ejaz as Councillor Kamal,Seerat Jafri as Marium, Khalid Butt as Nawab Sahib, Rohail Pirzada as Qasim Mian
Release Date: 18 November 2016
Director: Ahmed A. Jamal
Written by: Mahmood Jamal
Produced by: Mahmood Jamal
Co-Producers: David Shanks and Ahmed A. Jamal
Director of Photography: Jono Smith.
Edited by : Kant Pan.
Executive Producers: Yasin Alireza and Mahmood Jamal
Co- Executive Producer: Saqib Qureshi
Associate Producer : Omar Shah Ahmed
Line Producer : Matteela Films / Mazhar Zaidi
Art Director: Shehzad Shuja
Sound by : Faiz Zaidi
Unit Production Manager: Furqan Ahmad
Music Composed by : David C. Heath
Music features : The English Chamber Orchestra / John Anderson (Oboe), Gary Kettel (Percussion).Songs by Sami Brothers,Noor Jehan and Reshma
Rahm Website: http://www.rahmthemovie.com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDo6l3ijlss

Dobara Phir Se (دوبارہ پھر سے)
Dobara Phir Se (DPS) is directed by Mehreen Jabbar the famous director of dramas known for her signature distinct style. It is her second film after Ramchand Pakistani (2008). While Ramchand Pakistani was more of a parallel cinema film, DPS is a mainstream commercial film.

DPS is shot in Karachi, Pakistan and Newyork state, USA. The trailer of the film was released in July 2016 where the film was expected to release around August 2016. Now it is releasing on 25th November 2016.

Atiqa Odho is appearing on big screen after a long gap where her last film was Mujhe Chaand Chahiye (2000). DPS is also the first mainstream film for Hareem Farooq, Ali Kazmi and Tooba Siddiqi. Hareem Farooq has earlier appeared in horror film Siyah (2013) and Tooba Siddiqi also appeared in a song in the film Wrong No (2015)

Film: Dobara Phir Se (دوبارہ پھر سے)
Release Date: 25 November 2016
Genre: Family Drama
Language: Urdu
Starring: Adeel Husain, Hareem Farooq, Tooba Siddiqui, Atiqa Odho, Sanam Saeed,Shaz Khan,Ali Kazmi and Musa Khan
Director: Mehreen Jabbar
Story by Bilal Sami & Mehreen Jabbar
Music: Haniya Aslam
Screenplay: Bilal Sami
Producer: Salman Iqbal, Mohammad Jerjees Seja, Mehreen Jabbar.
Co produced by: Ilana Rossein, Asif Jamal
Associate Producer: Bilal Sami.
Distributed by ARY Films
Studio:ARY Films in association with Namak Films
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/dobaraphirse/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1UiodQoKeA

Raasta (راستہ)
The exact date of this film is not yet announced however Sahir Lodhi the leading name associated with this film announced it is releasing in November in his morning show on Tv One.

Raasta (راستہ) is produced in Karachi. The film was due to release in May 2016 but then delayed. Saahir Lodhi is playing the lead role apart from writing and co-directing the film.

Aijaz Aslam, is also playing an important role of a Police Officer in the film. The lead pair of the film is Saahir Lodhi and models Abeer Rizvi and Saima Azhar.

Cast: Sahir Lodhi, Abeer Rizvi, Ejaz Aslam, Sana Fakhir, Shamoon Abbasi, Mathira, Naved Raza, Saima Azhar, Saleem Miraj, Irfan motiwala, Esha Noor, Kisa zehra and child star Saniya Mansoor
Written by: Shahid Naqvi and Sahir Lodhi
Story Screenplay and Dailogue by: Sahir Loadhi
Directed by Saqib Siddiqui and Sahir Lodhi
Produced by: Moidul Hassan, Sahir Lodhi, Dr. Faisal Zia
A SAMS Company and HOM Production film with Sahir Lodhi Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaastaTheMovie

So it sums up films of November.

Thanks for your time

Rashid Nazir Ali

The first four months (Jan – Apr) of the year 2016 have passed which proved rather dismal when it comes to the number of Urdu films released. There has been only five major Urdu films released till April 2016

January – Ho Mann Jahan (1st January)
February – Bachaana (26 February 2016)
March – Fiker Not (11 March 2016)
April – Maalik (8 April 2016), Hijrat (22 April 2016)

Ho Mann Jahan earned nearly 21 crore (16 crore in Pakistan and 5 crore in the rest of the world), while Bachaana earned around 9 – 10 crore. Maalik (8 April 2016) earned around 4 crore before being banned after running for three weeks. Hijrat (22 April 2016) has proved dead flop and earned less than 1 crore in its opening week.

One major reason for such low numbers of releases was two back to back cricket tournaments. In February 2016, the first edition of Pakistan Super League was organized which was followed by the Cricket T20 World Cup in March 2016. Due to these cricketing events, release of few films was postponed.

This article lists the Urdu films announced to be released in May 2016. Due to the Holy month of Ramazan no film is releasing in June-2016 and thus after May, new Urdu films will be released in July on the festive occasion of Eidul Fitr.

Mahe Mir(ماہ میر)
Release Date: 6 May 2016
Mah-e-Mir is a film based which draws the contrast in life and the ‘Ka’laam’ of poet Meer Taqi Meer with another young and struggling poet.

The highlight of Mahe Mir is the script of Sarmad Sehbai. Iman Ali is appearing in a film after a gap of five years, where Bol in 2011 was her last film.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwMN_EV_fJM

Release Date: 6 May 2016
Starring: Iman Ali, Fahad Mustafa, Sanam Saeed, Ally Khan, Huma Nawab & Manzar Sehbai
Directed By: Anjum Shahzad, Sarmad Sehbai
Written By: Sarmad Sehbai
Production House: Mirqasam films
Produced By: Khurram Rasheed, Sahir Rasheed, Badar Ikram
Distributor: Hum Films

Hotal (ہوٹل)
Release Date: 13 May 2016
Hotal (ہوٹل) is a Hindi/Urdu film which is under production from past two years. Last year it was screened in New Delhi film festival in New Delhi, India where it also bagged an award.

Hotal was due to release on 1st April 2016 but it was postponed after the tragic Gulshane Iqbal Park terrorist attacks in Lahore. It can be considered as a comeback film for filmstar Meera. Her last major appearance was in film Ishq Khuda in 2013, though she also appeared in a cameo in the film Dekh Magar Pyar Se in 2015. Hotal is now releasing on the 13th May 2015.

Hotal also features an item song Maum Bati shot on Morrocan artist Wiam Dahmani. Now it is releasing on 13 May 2016.

Starring: Meera, Khalid Hassan Khan
Written and Directed by: Khalid Hassan Khan
Produced by: Firdose Anjum Aabroo

Aksbandh (عکس بندھ)
Release Date: 20 May 2016
Aksbandh (عکس بندھ) is a horror film and is claimed to be the first ‘Found Footage‘ film of Pakistan. Traditionally horror films are not a popular genre in Pakistan and even Bollywood horror films struggle at Pakistani box office.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p08B0KMWwnM

Starring: Ayaz Samoo, Saud Imtiaz, Danial Afzal,Bilal Yousufzai, Shehzeen Rahat, Mahrukh Rizvi and Arshad Ali
Written By: Ayaz Samoo and Emraan Hussain
Directed by: Emraan Hussain
Produced by: Naveed Arshad, Seemeen Naveed, Ayaz Samoo and Emran Hussain
Production House: Cinematic Media, Big Idea Entertainment
Distributor: Hum Films
Release Date: 20 May 2016

Rashid Nazir Ali

March the third month of the year 2017 has started. This month carries historical significance for Pakistan due to the historic occasion of 23rd March 1940 the day on which the Lahore Resolution or Pakistan Resolution was passed in Lahore. Pakistan was created in 1947 seven years after the Pakistan Resolution was passed. The first constitution of Pakistan was also implemented on 23rd March 1956 which declared Pakistan a Republic from a Dominion. Since 23rd March 1956, this day is named as the Republic Day and holds an official holiday status.

The weekend following the holiday of 23rd March provides a Window for extended cinema business and during the high time of our cinema, usually multiple films were lined up on the Republic Day Weekend.

This year however only one Urdu film is releasing in the month of March that too on the Republic Day i.e. Thursday 23rd March 2017.

Raasta (راستہ)
Raasta (راستہ) is a film featuring Sahir Lodhi as director, producer, writer and main hero. It is the debut film of Sahir Lodhi in multiple aspects and made for a social cause. As per Sahir Lodhi all the profit of the film will be used to construct a hospital in Karachi for the unprivileged sections of the society. So apart from entertaining the public Sahir Lodhi is also doing social work.

Raasta has been delayed multiple times. Its first release date was May 2016 which later changed to November 2016 and then February 2017. Now finally the film is releasing on 23rd March 2017.

Model Abeer Rizvi also making debut is palying the female lead opposite Sahir Lodhi. Another Model Saima Azhar making her debut also has a special appearance in the film. Seasoned artist Aijaz Aslam is playing an important role of a Police Inspector in the film. Aijaz Aslam is returning to big screen where his last brief appearance was in  Mein Hoon Shahid Afridi in 2013.

Naveed Raza also making his debut on big screen will be seen in a negative role. Mathira like her earlier two films Mein Hoon Shahid Afridi (2013) and Blind Love (2016) is again featuring in an item song. Sana Nawaz a well known name of our cinema is also part of this film.

The film is shot in Karachi, Sindh and coastal areas of Balochistan (Makran division).

The first trailer of Raasta was released in March 2016 while the new prolonged trailer is launched in December 2016. The music is launched in February 2017.

From its trailer Raasta appears to be a commercial masala action flick. The film has action, glamour, item song, romance, a rain song, some loud expressions and acting; nearly all the ingredients which define a commercial action film. Though such films are usually criticized by reviewers and serious audience, still no one can deny the fact that this kind of cinema has its own dedicated audience.

The strongest aspect of Raasta is its music composed by Saji ali and Kamran Akhtar. The camera work for the song Dil Faqeer also looks impressive, this song is shot in the coastal areas of Balochistan.

Like any routine commercial action flick Raasta also features a nearly 50 year old hero (48 year old Sahir Lodhi) in the role of an angry young man while the heroine is half the age of the hero. On top of this it also has some special appearances, action sequence, steamy songs and loudness whichare the essential ingredients of commercial cinema.

Film: Raasta (راستہ)
Release Date: 23 March 2017
Genre: Action, Romance
Cast: Sahir Lodhi, Abeer Rizvi, Ejaz Aslam, Sana Fakhir, Shamoon Abbasi,Mathira, Naved Raza, Saima Azhar, Saleem Miraj, Irfan motiwala, Esha Noor,Kisa zehra and child star Saniya Mansoor
Music: Saji Ali,Kamran Akhtar
Songs by:Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sara Raza Khan, Nabeel Shaukat,Damiya Farooq,Saman Saleem Sabri
Written by: Shahid Naqvi and Sahir Lodhi
Story Screenplay and Dailogue by: Sahir Loadhi
Directed by Saqib Siddiqui and Sahir Lodhi
Produced by: Moidul Hassan, Sahir Lodhi, Dr. Faisal Zia
Media Partner: Tv One
A SAMS Company and HOM Production film with Sahir Lodhi Films
Distributor: IMGC Global
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaastaTheMovie
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxdzfOn_Jkjgve12dQJxUJQ
Website:

Thanks for reading.

Rashid Nazir Ali

June 2018 is about to end in a weeks time. During this month, hot summer weather prevails in most parts of our country while the two to three months long summer vacation for all students also starts from this month. Due to the summer vacations many plan for recreation outings. The Muslim festive occasion of Eidul Fitr also fall in June 2018 which sees a number of Urdu films releases. No Urdu film was released in May 2018 due to the holy Islamic Month of Ramazan. The almost two month long dry season of local cinema has ended on Eidul Fitr 2017 where a four Urdu films have released. Eidul Fitr is the major festive occasion in our country followed by Eidul Azha. It is the time of joy, family reunion, outing, recreation and vacation. The long holidays of Eidul Fitr benefit the entertainment industry as well majorly cinemas and theaters. To utilize the Eid holidays as well as the summer vacations the number of Urdu film releases in this month is five where four are already released on Eidul Fitr. Here is the summary of the films of June 2018 7 Din Mohabbat In (سات دن محبت ان) Starring superstar Mahira Khan alongside her Ho Mann Jahan co-star Sheheryar Munawar, 7 Din Mohabbat In (7DMI) is all set to release on Eid ul Fitr. It has been directed by duo of Meenu Gaur and Farjad Nabi, whose debut directorial venture Zinda Bhaag (2013) became the first Pakistani film to be submitted for an Oscar consideration. Written by Fasih Bari Khan, the romantic comedy shows the life of Tipu (essayed by Munawar) on a quest to find his true love and the troubles he encounters during his journey. The film also marks Mira Sethi’s big screen debut and has an all-star cast that includes names such as Amna Ilyas, Jawed Sheikh, Hina Dilpazeer, Aamir Qureshi, Rimal Ali, Adnan Shah Tipu, Mira Sethi and Beo Zafar. 7 Din Mohabbat In will be Mahira and Sheheryar’s second film together after Asim Raza’s Ho Mann Jahaan (2016), where Sheheryar Munawar is appearing in a film after a gap of 2.5 years. 7DMI is the debut film for Hina Dilpazeer, Rimal Ali and Mira Sethi. Transgender artist Rimal Ali will perform on a dance number in this film too. It is also the first film by Herald Entertainment Company and Dawn Films, a film house of Dawn Media and Publications. Outside Pakistan, 7DMI will be distributed by B4U movies. 7DMI will also release in North America, Europe, Middle East, Australia/NZ, Africa and South East Asia. Film: 7 Din Mohabbat In (سات دن محبت ان) Release Date: 16th June 2018 Genre: Romcom Cast: Mahira Khan, Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui, Mira Sethi, Amna Ilyas, Jawed Sheikh, Hina Dilpazeer, Aamir Qureshi, Adnan Shah Tipu, Beo Zafar Music by: Arshad Mehmood,Shuja Haider,Shani Arshad, Waqar Ali, Sheraz Uppal Written by: Fasih Bari Khan Directed by: Meenu Gaur, Farjad Nabi Producers: Nazafreen Saigol, Lakhani Shakeel, Masud Hussain, Sheikh Amjad Rasheed Production House: Dawn Films Distributor: Dawn Films & IMGC Global Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/7DinMohabbatIn/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Qa_DNWlYlA Azaadi (آزادی ) Moammar Rana and Sonya Hussyn starer Azaadi is also releasing on Eidul Fitr. The film is about finding freedom and is a love story set against the backdrop of the freedom struggle in Jammu and Kashmir. The titular character Azaad is being essayed by Moammar Rana. He is shown to be a freedom fighter who chooses Kashmir over love, career, and family, whereas Sonya Hussyn is essaying a British journalist of Pakistani roots who loves Azaad. Besides Rana and Hussyn, veteran actor Nadeem will be essaying Moammar’s father in the film. By the looks of the trailer, Azaadi seems to be packed with a lot of action and impressive visual effects. Azaadi is directed by Imran Malik the son of late great director Parvez Malik. Imran’s first film as director was Tere Bin Jiya Na Jaye in 2005. Azaadi is Sonya Hussyn second film after Moor (2015). Film: Azaadi (آزادی ) Release Date: 16th June 2018 Genre: Action Cast: Moammar Rana, Sonya Hussyn, Nadeem, Maryam Ansari, Erum Azam, Ali Fateh, Maryam Khalif Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga Written by: Wajid Zuberi Directed by: Imran Malik Producers: Irfan Malik, Imran Malik Production House: Parvez Malik Films Distributor: ARY Films Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Azaadi-803318393140295/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U71A8kn_h64 Wajood (وجود) Wajood is directed by Javed Sheikh where his last film as director Khullay Aasman Ke Neeche was released in 2008. Starring Danish Tamoor, Saeeda Imtiaz and Aditi Singh in the key roles, Wajood has veteran artists Shahid, Nadeem and Javed Sheikh in the supporting cast. A romantic thriller it is shot in Turkey. Danish Taimoor, will be seen essaying the character of a pilot, while Jawed Sheikh is possibly essaying the villain’s role. It is the first film of Saeeda Imtiaz in a lead role, as she had earlier appeared in a dance number in Raasta (2017). Indian artist Aditi Singh is also part of this film. Frieha Altaf is making her big screen debut from this film, while Ali Saleem is also appearing in a key role. Like the past films of Javed Sheikh, Wajood has melodious music well shot on the scenic locations of Turkey. Film: Wajood (وجود) Release Date: 16th June 2018 Genre: Romantic/Thriller Cast: Danish Tamoor, Saeeda Imtiaz, Aditi Singh, Nadeem, Shahid, Javed Sheikh, Frieha Altaf, Shaheen Khan, Asad Mehmood, Ali Saleem Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga Written by: Babar Kashmiri Directed by: Javed Sheikh Producers: Moomal Sheikh and Shahzad Sheikh Production House: Javed Sheikh Films Distributor: Distribution Club Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wajoodthefilm/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL9gShbxYR0 Na Band Na Baraati (نا بینڈ نا باراتی) Na Band Na Baraati is a romantic comedy feature film. The film trails lives of a few Pakistani families in Canada. It has a mix of culture, compassion, love, mischief’s, and entertainment. Starring Mikaal Zulfiqar, Nayab Khan and Shayan Khan in key roles, it has established names like Qavi Khan, Atiqa Odho and Mehmood Akhter in the supporting cast. The film is shot entirely in Canada. It is the Mikaal Zulfiqar’s first Pakistani film in a leading role. Earlier he has appeared in supporting roles in God Father The Legend Continues (2007) and Cake (2018). The film was due to release on 6th July 2018, however its release date is pushed back as another film Parwaaz Hai Junoon by the same distributor is delayed. Film: Na Band Na Baraati (نا بینڈ نا باراتی) Release Date: 16th June 2018 Genre: Romcom Cast: Mikaal Zulfiqar, Ali Kazmi, Shayan Khan, Qavi Khan, Atiqa Odho, Komal Farooqi, Azra Mohyeddin, Nayab Khan, Saram Jaffery, Anzelikha Tahir, Kashif Ahmed and Zuhair Jaffery Music by: Ayaz Sonu Written by: Harish Kumar Patel Directed by: Mahmood Akhtar Producers: Khawar Farooqi, Nighat Farooqi & Zain Farooqi Production House: Zashko Films Distributor: Hum Films & Everready Films Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nbnbmovie/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdJFbA0Jtx8 Shor Sharaba (شور شرابہ) The last film of June 2018 is Shor Sharaba releasing on 29th June 2018. It is the fifth or sixth release date of the film, which is in production for almost past four years. The film was due to release in April 2017, then postponed to Eidul Fitr 2017, then November 2017, April 2018 and now June 2018. Shor Sharaba is produced in Lahore, where its producer Sohail Khan is making a comeback towards Urdu cinema. Sohail Khan is a film producer from Lahore, and since film making in Pakistan was extinct by mid 2000s he produced films in Bollywood. He was the co-producer of the Bollywood films like Jannat, Murder 3 and perhaps it is where he get acquainted with Indian film directors. Since the so called revival of Urdu cinema, Sohail has also announced his film Shor Sharaba around 2014-2015 to be directed by the Indian directed Hasnain Hyderabadwala (حسنین حیدرآبادوالا). It took Hasnain Hyderabadwala long time to get the work permit and other permissions required to work in Pakistan and thus the film delayed. Eventually Hasnain Hyderabadwala got the work permit and the shooting of the film started in Lahore in 2016 and completed in early 2017. Interestingly in October 2016, Indian film producers association announced a ban on Pakistani artists in Bollywood. However at that time the Indian director was shooting this film in Pakistan and he again visited afterwards to complete the film as there is no such ban on Indian artists in Pakistan. Apart from the Indian director, the choreographer Shabina Khan of this film is also Indian. Shor Sharaba stars Adnan Khan and Rabi Peerzada in the lead roles where Rabi is doing her first film. The trailer of the film was released in April 2017 and was quite clueless. One wonders what difference the Indian film director has made as the film is at par with the Urdu films of 1990s directed by Parvez Rana (Late), Maqsood Butt or Anjum Parvez. Lets hope the film sees the light of the day this time. Film: Shor Sharaba (شور شرابہ) Release Date: 29th June 2018 Genre: Romcom Cast: Adnan Khan, Rabi Peerzada, Meera, Ahmed Butt, Mustafa Qureshi, Bihar Begum Written by: Sohail Khan Directed by: Husnain Hyderabadwala Producers: Sohail Khan Production House: Sohail Khan Production Distributor: Sohail Khan Production Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHhM9iusWXM With five films June emerges as the month having the most number of film releases in 2018. Thanks for reading and your time. Rashid Nazir Ali

July the seventh month of the year 2017 has started. It is the month in which rainy season Barsaat or Savan starts in Pakistan after a soaring summer season. No public holiday falls in this month, but due to summer vacations in educational institutions traditionally the number of film releases is on the high side if compared to the other non public holidays months of the year.

This July, release of three Urdu films is announced which is a healthy figure with respect to local cinema. All three Urdu films of July 2017 are of different genre and thus provides ample variety to the cine goers to choose one as per their taste.

So here are the Urdu films of July 2017

Project Ghazi (پراجیکٹ غازی)
Project Ghazi is advertised as the first super hero film of Pakistan and is under production for past one year. The producers of the films have been successful in generating a lot of hype about their project. Produced in Karachi, it will be interesting to see whether the film lives up to the expectations it has raised.

The teaser of the film was released in May 2017, which received mixed response. The trailer of the film is launched on 19th June 2017 which again received mixed response. The fight sequences, sound mixing and CGI effects in the trailer were criticized for not being up to the mark. Still the film is applauded for being the first of its kind in Pakistani cinema.

Project Ghazi stars Humayun Saeed, Sheharyar Munawar Siddiqi, Syra Shehroz, Talat Hussain and Adnan Jaffar in pivotal roles. Sheharyar Munawar Siddiqi last worked in Ho Mann Jahan, released in January 2016 and Project Ghazi is his second film after a gap of one and a half years. The director and the production team of Project Ghazi are relatively new names.

Film: Project Ghazi (پراجیکٹ غازی)
Release Date: 14th July 2017
Genre: Action
Cast: Sheheryar Munawar,Humayun Saeed,Syra Yousuf,Adnan Jaffar,Talat Hussain,Aamir Qureshi,Raza Hyder,Nusrat Hidayutullah
Written by:
Directed by: Nadir H. Shah
Produced by: Syed Muhammad Ali Raza
Production House: GYR Films
Distributor: Distribution Club (DC)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectghazi/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQgQn-vRHao

Shor Sharaba (شورشرابا)
Shor Sharaba (شورشرابا) is the second film releasing this month. It was due to release on Eidul Fitr but then postponed to avoid clash with the other Eid releases. Shor Sharaba is produced in Lahore, by Sohail Khan a film producer from Lahore. Sohail Khan has also co-prouced few films in Bollywood like Jannat in 2008 in collaboration with Mahesh Bhatt. Perhaps the collaboration with the Indian film industry prompted Sohail Khan to produce a film in Pakistan with the assistance of Indian film workers.

Shor Sharaba was announced some two years ago, but the shooting of the film is delayed due the visa issues with its Indian director Hasnain Hyderabadwala and choreographer Shaheena Khan.

After formally getting the visa and work permits, Hasnain Hyderabadwala shot this film in Lahore in 2016. Though the cast of the film is Pakistani, but perhaps it is the first Pakistani film directed by an Indian director.

Also dubbed as a romantic comedy it is a complete commercial masala flick featuring an item song too.

Shor Sharaba is the first Urdu film of Adnan Khan, who made his debut from Punjabi film Mohabbatan Sachiyan way back in 2007. Rabi Peerzada is making film debut as heroine from Shor Sharaba. Rabi Peerzada is also active in showbiz for more than a decade in acting, hosting as well as singing.

The scandal queen of our film industry Meera is also appearing in an item song and extended cameo. However the footage of item song of Meera went missing during the editing phase of the film. So it is not clear yet whether the song will be reshot or not.

The trailer of Shor Sharaba is released in May 2017 and it was quite disappointing. Film makers from Lahore’s defunct film industry are known for producing pulp films, but there was better expectation from Shor Sharaba due to the presence of an Indian film director. Lets hope the film is better than the trailer.

Film: Shor Sharaba (شورشرابا)
Release Date: 21st July 2017
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Cast: Adnan Khan, Rabi Pirzada, Meera, Aqeel Malik, Ahmed Butt, Mustafa Qurashi, Imran Khan, Nisho, Bahar Begum
Music:
Story: Sohail Khan and Tariq Sahli
Script & Dialogues: Sohail Khan
Directed by: Hasnain Hyderabadwala
Associate Producer: Ghouse Qadri
Produced by: Sohail Khan
Production House: SK (Sohail Khan) Productions
Distributor: IMGC
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShorSharabaOfficial/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QL1PvUHOTf4

Chain Aaye Naa (چین آۓ نا)
Chain Aaye Naa (CAN) is a musical romantic film releasing on 21st July 2017. The major highlight of Chain Aaye Naa is its director and producer Syed Noor, one of the last renown names of now defunct film industry of Lahore. Syed Noor has a lots of successful films to his credit in the 1990s like Jeeva, Sargam, Ghoonghat, Sangam, Choorian, Daku Rani, Deewane Tere Pyar Ke. His last Urdu film Jhoomar was released in 2007 so Syed Noor is returning to Urdu cinema after a gap of one decade. Though he was active in Punjabi films during the last decade where Shareeka in 2012 was his last Punjabi film.

CAN marks the comeback of Syed Noor to the Urdu cinema. It is the debut film of Sehrish Khan an artist of Pakistani origin from USA. Sehrish Khan is the grand daughter of Sabiha Khanum and Santosh Kumar two legendary names of our cinema. CAN is shot in Karachi and Lahore.

Shehroz Sabzwari is appearing as the male lead opposite Sehrish Khan. CAN is also the debut film of Shehroz Sabzwari, though he has worked as a childstar in Khulay Aasman Ke Neeche in 2007. Shehroz is the son of famous artist Behroz Sabzwari and nephew of Javed Sheikh a seasoned name of Pakistani cinema.

Adil Murad the son of Waheed Murad is also making a comeback to the big screen after two decades from this film. His last and only film to date Raja Saab was released in 1995.

Atiqa Odho and Nadeem Baig are working as a pair after a gap of almost two decades their last film Mummy was released in 1997.

Saima Noor an essential ingredient in the films of Syed Noor is surprisingly missing in this film. The trailer of the film was released on 22nd June 2017 which looks dull and tasteless in every aspect. On the whole the trailer of CAN has greatly disappointed anyone waiting for a strong comeback from Syed Noor.

As evident from the trailer the film follows the pattern of an 1980s film with over emotional sequences, bad acting, lack of direction, sub par camerawork and unimpressive editing. The only strong aspect could have been its music as the main protagonist of the film is a musician, but alas its music also looks outdated as many songs released in 1990s are reused in this film.

The first trailer was four and a half minutes long and received heavy criticism on the social media. Later a shorter two and a half minutes trailer is released both the trailers are posted here. The shorter trailer is much better, but it cannot mend the damage the first trailer has done.

Film: Chain Aaye Naa (چین آۓ نا)
Release Date: 21st July 2017
Genre: Romantic Musical
Cast: Shahroz Sabzwari, Sarish Khan, Adil Murad, Nadeem, Behroze Sabzwari, Mustafa Qureshi, Atiqa Odho, Danish Nawaz, Waqar Godhra, Sobia Khan, Maryam
Music: M. Arshad, Javed Siddiqui, Naim Sakhia and Syed Noor
DOP: Irfan Mirza
Writer: Syed Noor
Directed by: Syed Noor
Produced by: Javed Siddiqui, Naim Sakhia and Syed Noor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChainAyeNa/
Website: http://www.chainayena.net/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNkGCpjg5Qw

So these are the three Urdu films releasing in the month of July 201.

Thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

February the second month of the year 2018 is starting in few days time.  This month has one official holiday of Kashmir Day on 5th February. This year Kashmir day is falling on Monday thus making it a long weekend.

Apart from the Kashmir Day, the other notable event in this month is Valentines Day which falls on 14th February. Though not an official holiday, but a number of Bollywood films are lined up every year on the Valentines weekend.

The major sporting event of our country Pakistan Super League (PSL) also starts in the mid of February (15th February) and usually film makers avoid a direct clash with any popular sporting event like this.

Since 2013 with the resurgence of the Urdu cinema, the number of released films in this month are on lower side might be due to the factors like PSL, high number (2-3) of Bollywood films on the Valentine’s weekend. Last year in February 2017 only two Urdu films Balu Mahi and Whistle were released. Though Balu Mahi started decently at the box office but it failed to carry the momentum beyond first week, while Whistle was a washout. The most successful film released in this month since 2013 was Bachaana released on 27th February 2016. Bachaana earned 8 – 9 crore back then despite the direct clash with the first season PSL.

However things look promising this year with a total of four films releasing in February 2018. But perhaps to avoid the clash with the Bollywood releases on the Valentines weekend and PSL and to utilize the long weekend of Kashmir Day all the four films are releasing on the first two weekends of the month. Three out of these four films are releasing on the Kashmir Day weekend, which is a long weekend.

All the four films of this month are of different genres of horror, romcom, independent and animated drama which will provide ample choices to the cine goers to choose one as per their priority.

Maan Jao Na (مان جاؤ نا)
Maan Jao Na (MJN) is the only mainstream commercial film releasing in the month of February. It is light Romantic Comedy film consisting of fresh and seasoned faces.

Seasoned artist Asif Raza Mir is making a comeback to the big screen after a gap of almost three decades through this film. Asma Abbas is also working in her first film in a supporting role, who also provided vocals for a song.

The lead pair of the film is Adeel Chaudhry and Elnaaz Norouzi where both are working in their first Urdu film. Adeel Chaudhry has earlier worked in a Bollywood film, but MJN is his first Pakistani film. Elnaaz Nourouzi is a German artist of Iranian origin who has also worked in Bollywood.

MJN is also the first film of Aabis Raza as director who earlier directed many famous dramas. The trailer of the film was released in November 2017 and received mixed response. After a very long time MJN is the film shot at the scenic locations of Sindh’s urban and rural area. The film also features a colorful Shaadi song shot Ishq Bekaar on the entire cast. The reloaded version of famous song Bijli Bhari Hai is also part of this film.

Film: Maan Jao Na (مان جاؤ نا)
Release Date: 2 February 2018
Genre: Romcom
Cast: Elnaaz Norouzi, Adeel chaudhry, Ghana Ali, Ayaz Samoo, Hajra Yamin, Naeem Haque, Asif Raza Mir, Asma Abbas, SAbahat Bukhari, Muhammad Ejaz, Nayyer Ejaz, Ali Gul Pir
Written by: Muhammad Khalid Ali
Directed by: Aabis Raza
Produced by: Asma Nabeel & Ahsan Raza Firdousi
Music: Shuja Haider, asim Raza, Vicky Haider
Production House: The Crew Films
Distributor: Hum Films & Eveready
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Maan-Jao-Naa-376378429396879/
Website: http://www.maanjaonaa.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPc9uW2f7_Q

Pari (پری)
Pari is the second film releasing in the month of February and on 2nd February 2018. Earlier announced to release on Halloween 2017, it was eventually delayed. Pari is a horror film a genre which has not proven much popular among the audience of the local cinema. Since 2013, horror films Siyaah (2014), Maya (2015) and Aksbandh (2016) have been released without much success.

The cast of the film is new with Azekah Danial and Junaid Akhter, while childstar Khushi Maheen also playing a vital role in the film.

It is the first film of Syed Atif Ali as a director. Seasoned names of our artist world Saleem Miraj, Rasheed Naz and Qavi Khan are also working in this film.

Pari is mostly shot at the hill station of Ayubia.

Film: Pari (پری)
Release Date: 2 February 2018
Genre: Horror
Cast: Khushi Maheen, Junaid Akhtar, Azekah Daniel, Faiq Asim, Saleem Miraj, Rasheed Naz, Qavi Khan
Written by: Syed Atif Ali & Muhammad Ahsan
Directed by: Syed Atif Ali
Produced by:MIG Media Company & Screenshots Productions
Music:Masood Alam
Production House: MIG Media Company & Screenshots Productions
Distributor:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/parihorrorfilm

Allahyar and The Legend of Markhor (الہیار اینڈ دی لیجنڈ آف مارخور)

Allahyar and The Legend of Markhor (ATLOM) is an animated film. Since 2013 very few animated films have been released, which surprisingly have proved quite successful. Gradually it is becoming a popular genre.

The previous two animated films were 3 Bahadur (2015) and its sequel 3 Bahadur: The Revenge of Baba Balaam (2016), both of which proved block buster.

ATLOM, also received lots of appreciation when its teaser and trailer were released. It is the story of a young lad Allahyar who lives in the remote northern mountainous part of Pakistan. Allahyar befriends a Markhor (Ibex) and a Chakor (a kind of Partridge), which are the national animal and bird of our country. A snow leopard also joins this gang.

Together they fight with the negative elements of the society who are part of the timber mafia and wildlife poachers.

Film: Allahyar and The Legend of Markhor (الہیار اینڈ دی لیجنڈ آف مارخور)
Release Date: 2 February 2018
Genre: Animated
Cast (voice overs): Anum Zaidi as Allahyar, Natasha Humera Ejaz as Mehru, Ali Noor as Mani, Azfar Jafri as Hero, Abdul Nabi Jamali as Chak’ku, Arieb Azhar as Bablu, Hareem Farooq, Ali Rehman Khan, Nadia Jamil
Written by: Uzair Zaheer Khan
Directed by: Uzair Zaheer Khan
Produced by: Usman Iqbal
Music: Ahmed Ali
Production House: 3rd World Studios
Distributor: ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AYATLOM/

Azad (آزاد)
Azad is the fourth film of this month releasing on 9th February 2018. Though its genre is Romantic Drama, but it is not a mainstream commercial film.

The introduction of the film on IMDB states “An off beat comedy drama set in modern day Pakistan about a free spirited RJ who hosts a morning show until a chance encounter leads him to confront his own ideas of freedom.”

So the film tells the story of a free spirited man played by Rehan Sheikh himself.

The film is the direction debut of Rehan Sheikh on the big screen. Rehan Sheikh is also the co-producer and writer as well as playing the main protagonist in the film. Other notable names in the film are Sanam Saeed and Sabreen Hisbani.

Rehan Sheikh is an established artist, who performed a variety of roles in various dramas in the past 25 years. He earlier worked in three films Manto (2015), Actor In Law (2016) and Chuppan Chupai (2017) in supporting roles. Azad is his first film in a lead role.

Azad is also the debut film for Zahid Ahmed, Angleine Malik and Sabreen Hisbani who are considered established names in acting.

Azad has already been screened at some international film festivals outside Pakistan.

Film: Azad (آزاد)
Release Date: 9 February 2018
Genre: Romantic Drama
Cast: Rehan Sheikh,Sanam Saeed,Imran Abbas,Nimra Bucha,Angeline Malik,Zahid Ahmed,Salman Shahid,Sabreen Hisbani
Written by: Rehan Sheikh
Directed by: Rehan Sheikh
Produced by: Hasan Naeem,Rehan Sheikh
Music: Abbas Ali Khan,Taimoor Mirza
Production House: Bling Studios & Roomi Films
Distributor: Hum Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themovieAZAD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoBFLBcADto

So it concludes the introduction of the films coming in February 2018. All the four films are different

Thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

February the second month of the year 2017 has started. The event of Valentines Day or 14th February falls in this month. Though not a local tradition, but from past one decade specifically after the emergence of private satellite channels this day has been promoted extensively atleast on our television channels. Since Valentines day is associated with romance so it can be an occasion to release a film based on romance.

There has never been any tradition in our local film industry to release some romance based film on the Valentines day weekend. However in our neighboring India some romantic films are scheduled every year on this weekend which sometimes termed as Valentines weekend releases.Since from past one decade Bollywood films are also releasing in Pakistan including the Valentines day weekend releases so it has somewhat attracted the local film makers too. In the year 2016, two Bollywood films were released on the Valentines Weekend. Perhaps inspired from the same Bollywood trend, this year for the very first time one Urdu film is scheduled specifically for the Valentines weekend on 10th February 2016.

On the whole two Urdu films are releasing in February 2017.

Balu Mahi (بالو ماہی)
Balu Mahi is the first film directed by Haissam Hussain (ہا‏ئصم حسین) known for some popular dramas like Dastaan, Durre Shehwar, Bin Roye. Haissam’s first film was Bin Roye released in 2015 but due to some differences with the producers he left the film incomplete and subsequently the film was completed by Hameed Kashmiri and Momina Duraid (also the producer).

The producer of Balu Mahi is Saadia Jabbar, also known for producing some famous dramas like Mera Naam Yousaf Hai. Most of the dramas produced by Saadia Jabbar are aired on the channel APlus which is also the media partner of Balu Mahi.

Balu Mahi features Osman Khalid Butt, Ainnie Jaffri and Sadaf Kanwal in the lead roles. It is the first major film of Osman Khalid Butt, though he earlier appeared in a cameo in Janaan (2015) and in a supporting role in Slackistan (2013).

Ainnie Jaffri is making a comeback on the big screen, where her first film was Mein Hoon Shahid Afridi (MHSA) in 2013 in which she appeared as a second heroine. Sadaf Kanwal a leading name of our modelling scene is making her acting debut from this film too.

The melodious music of the film is composed by Sahir Ali Bagga and is a blend of experienced voices like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and new voices like Asim Azhar, Aima Baig.

A romantic comedy, the film is releasing on the Valentines weekend i.e. 10th February, as specifically mentioned on its official page.

The film is shot in Lahore, Sheikhupura as well as the scenic locations of Gilgit Baltistan. The film also features a dance number Balu Mahi shot on Ainnie Jaffri and Osman Khalid Butt.

Apart from the lead cast, the supporting cast of the film also features some big names like Shafqat Cheema, Javed Sheikh, Durdana Butt and Hinna Rizvi.

Film: Balu Mahi (بالو ماہی)
Releasing Date: 10th February 2017
Genre: Romance, Situational Humor, Drama, Adventure
Starring: Osman Khalid Butt, Ainy Jaffri, Sadaf Kanwal (debut), Shafqat Cheema, Javed Sheikh, Hinna Rizvi, Durdana Butt
Directed By: Haissam Hussain
Written By: Saad Azhar
Screenplay: Haissam Hussain, Saad Azhar
Produced By: Sadia Jabbar Production (SJP)
Distributor: HKC Entertainment
Media Partner: ATV, APlus
Plot Outline: Happenstance brings two strangers together on a wintery night in Lahore. What follows is a series of (mis)adventures that brings them together… and drives them apart.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balumahi.official
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-dh5motMnPSOVjL9gzDwxg
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy_BSb9oFvV22EfRNpKvWLw
Website: http://www.sadiajabbarproductions.com/

Whistle (وسل)
Whistle is an Urdu film but with an English name. Whistle in English can be easily translated as Seeti (سیٹی) in Urdu. The film is releasing on 17th February 2017. Advertised as a film on Nationalism, Whistle is based on the story of law enforcement officers fighting drug dealers and criminals. This film claimed to be based on Nationalism also features an item song.

Sohail Sameer, Farhan Ali Agha, Tatmainul Qalb are the leading names in this film. The film is mostly shot in Islamabad, Salt Range and Pothohar region of Punjab mainly Mianwali district. The music of the film is composed by Bakshi brothers who earned fame from Coke Studio few years ago.

Film: Whistle (وسل)
Action: Action, Thriller
Release Date: 17th February 2017
Starring: Farhan Ali Agha, Sohail Sameer, Imran Ali, Tatmain Ul Qulb, Osama Bin Ghazi, Aamir Kazmi, Daud Khan, Mubashir Malik, Beenish Saghir, Dewan Shoaib Khan, Ehsan Khan, Imaad Ali,Sarim Malik, Hamna Khalid & Meerab (for item song)
Story by: Shafaq Ammad
Directed by: Ammad Azhar
Produced by: Mian Yasin
Script by: Mirza Naeem Baig & Ammad Azhar
Lyrics: Nadeem Najid & Ammad Azhar
Music: Bakshi Brothers
DOP: Khalid Jumman
Art Director/Production Designer: Shafaq Ammad
Associate Director: Farooq Gondal
Asst, Director: Shahid Doltana
Asst. Production Designer: Rao Shakeel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whistlethemovie
Website: http://www.whistlemovie.com/
Plot Outline
A film on Nationalism as never been screened before.

So it sums up the films coming in February 2017.

Thanks for reading and keep supporting Pakistani cinema.

Rashid Nazir Ali

The fourth and last quarter (October – December) of the year 2016 has started. The first two quarters of the year 2016 have proved disappointing for the local cinema where only two films Ho Mann Jahan (January) and Bachaana (February) proved successful. Both the films were released in the first quarter (January – March) of 2016. The second quarter (April – June) saw back to  back struggle of local films like Hijrat, Hotal, Maalik, Mahe Mir, Aksbandh though Maalik performed a little better.

The third quarter (July – September) has been a mixed one, both the festive occasions of Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha fall in it. In the third quarter there were many struggling films like Swaal 700 Crore Dollar Ka, Revenge of the Worthless, Ishq Positive, Blind Love, Dance Kahani. But there are also some successful films like Actor In Law, Janaan as well as Zindagi Kitni Haseen Hai. All the three later films are released on Eidul Azha in September 2016.

In the fourth and last quarter of 2016, no Urdu film is releasing in October 2016 for multiple reason like
The first month of Islamic Hijri Calendar Muharram is falling in October. Traditionally no local film is released in the first ten days of Muharram.
Three main stream Urdu films are already released on Eidul Azha 13th September 2016 which are still earning well, so any further local release will compete for space with these Eid releases.
The Hinduism festive occasion of Diwali is also coming in October when some big banner Bollywood films are scheduled. Due to huge demand among cine goers a large proportion of the limited space and shows available in cinemas is allotted to these Bollywood movies. Two major Bollywood films Shivay and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil are expected to release on 28th October 2016 the weekend before Diwali.

In December 2016 the last month of the year, festive occasion and holiday of Christmas comes on 25th December on which some major Bollywood film is also scheduled. This year a Bollywood film Dangal is expected to release on 23rd December 2016. So in between October and December, almost a total of five or six weeks are considered a favorable window to release a local Urdu film. These five or six weeks span from start of November and last till mid of December. During this time frame absence of major Bollywood film provides considerable space to local films to perform.

This year during the same time period five Urdu films are scheduled to release.

Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)
Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)(The Elephant in the Room) is directed by Menu Gaur and Farjad Nabi the same team which directed a Pakistani Urdu/Punjabi film Zinda Bhaag in 2013.

Jeewan Hathi (The Elephant in the Room) is written by Faseeh Bari Khan a famous writer of Pakistani drama industry. His most famous drama is Qudusi Sahib Ki Bewah. Jeewan Hathi also stars seasoned artists Hina Dilpazeer with acclaimed Indian artist Naseerudin Shah.

The film is produced by the Indian television channel Zee Zindagi under the initiative of Zeal for Unity. In 2015 Zee Zindagi announced an initiative of Zeal for Unity, producing around 12 films for its short films festival where 6 to be directed/produced in Pakistan by Pakistani directors and team and six to be produced in India with Indian director and team. Jeevan Hathi is one of these short films.

Film: Jeevan Hathi (جیون ہاتھی)
Release Date: 4 November 2016
Genre: Dark Comdey
Language: Urdu
Starring: Naseerudin Shah, Hina Dilpazeer, Samiya Mumtaz, Adnan Jafar, Saifee Hassan, Nazarul Hassan, Fawad Khan, Kiran Tabeer
Directed by: Meenu Gaur & Farjad Nabi
Co-Produced by: Vikas Sharma
Produced by: Shailja Kejriwala, Mazhar Zaidi
Matteela Produced by: Mazhar Zaidi
DOP: Rana Kamran
Music by: Sahir Ali Bagga
Edited by: Armaghan Hasan
Written by: Faseeh Bari Khan
Zeal For Unity Presents A Matteela Films Production
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeewanhathi/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEV935_Z86Q

Lahore Se Aagey (لاہور سے آگے)
Lahore Se Aagey (LSA) is the sequel of the film Karachi Se Lahore (کراچی سے لاہور) (KSL) released on 31st July 2015. KSL proved hit by earning nearly 10 crore.

KSL was a road trip romantic comedy story from Karachi to Lahore. LSA will take the journey further from Lahore to the scenic valley of Swat in the north west of our country. It is the story of the character of Moti (Yasir Hussain) from KSL. Apart from Yasir Hussain, no other artist from KSL is in LSA.

Paired with Yasir Hussain, Saba Qamar known for her powerful performances in many television plays is appearing in a lead role for the very first time. She earlier appeared in a supporting role in the film Manto (2015).

Veteran artist Rubina Ashraf is also making a big screen debut from this film in a supporting role.

Like Karachi Se Lahore, Lahore Se Aagay is also penned down by Yasir Hussain، directed by Wajahat Rauf. The other similarity among both films is presence of two dance numbers. Karachi Se Lahore has Rabbi Rali and Tuti Frooti, Lahore Se Aagay has Qalabaaz and Marcharapa.

Film: Lahore Se Aagay (لاہور سے آگے)
Release Date: 11 November 2016
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Language: Urdu
Starring:Yasir Hussain,Saba Qamar,Mubashir Malik,Rubina Ashraf,Behroze Sabzwari,Abdullah Farhatullah,Noor ul Hassan,Atiqa Odho
Directed by:Wajahat Rauf
Produced by:Wajahat Rauf,Salman Iqbal,Asfand Farouk
Written by:Yasir Hussain
Music by:Shiraz Uppal
Cinematography:Asrad Khan
Edited by:Hasan Ali Khan
Production company:Showcase Productions
Distributed by:ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LahoreSeAagey/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc7JbvZD0PM

Dobara Phir Se (دوبارہ پھر سے)
Dobara Phir Se (DPS) is directed by Mehreen Jabbar the famous director of dramas known for her signature distinct style. It is her second film after Ramchand Pakistani (2008). While Ramchand Pakistani was more of a parallel cinema film, DPS is a mainstream commercial film.

DPS is shot in Karachi, Pakistan and Newyork state, USA. The trailer of the film was released in July 2016 where the film was expected to release around August 2016. Now it is releasing on 25th November 2016.

Atiqa Odho is appearing on big screen after a long gap where her last film was Mujhe Chaand Chahiye (2000). DPS is also the first mainstream film for Hareem Farooq, Ali Kazmi and Tooba Siddiqi. Hareem Farooq has earlier appeared in horror film Siyah (2013) and Tooba Siddiqi also appeared in a song in the film Wrong No (2015)

Film: Dobara Phir Se (دوبارہ پھر سے)
Release Date: 25 November 2016
Genre: Family Drama
Language: Urdu
Starring: Adeel Husain, Hareem Farooq, Tooba Siddiqui, Atiqa Odho, Sanam Saeed,Shaz Khan,Ali Kazmi and Musa Khan
Director: Mehreen Jabbar
Story by Bilal Sami & Mehreen Jabbar
Music: Haniya Aslam
Screenplay: Bilal Sami
Producer: Salman Iqbal, Mohammad Jerjees Seja, Mehreen Jabbar.
Co produced by: Ilana Rossein, Asif Jamal
Associate Producer: Bilal Sami.
Distributed by ARY Films
Studio:ARY Films in association with Namak Films
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/dobaraphirse/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1UiodQoKeA

Salute (سیلوٹ)
Salute is directed and produced by Shahzad Rafique a famous director/producer from Lahore. Shahzad Rafique has some successful Urdu/Punjabi films to his credit like Ghoonghat (1995 as producer), Nikaah (1998 as producer), Salakhain (2004 as director), Mohabtan Sachiyan (Punjabi 2009), Ishq Khuda (Punjabi film in 2014 as producer/director).

Salute is based on the real life events of Aitzaz Hassan, a school boy from Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Aitzaz Hassan sacrificed his life to save his fellow schoolmates by stopping a suicide bomber. Salute stars some big names of cinema like Saima Noor and Ajab Gull in the lead roles. Saima Noor and Ajab Gull are appearing as parents of Aitzaz Hassan character. Ali Mohtesham is appearing in the role of Aitzaz Hassan.

Salute has been under production for more than two years and is delayed multiple times. Now finally it is releasing on 2nd December 2016.

Film: Salute (سیلوٹ)
Release Date: 2 December 2016
Genre: Biopic
Language: Urdu, Pasho
Starring: Ali Mohtesham,Saima Noor,Ajab Gul,Nayyar Ejaz,Pervaiz Kaleem,Adnan Khan,Rashid Mehmood,Jalal Haider,Mahnoor
Directed by:Shahzad Rafique
Produced by:Shahzad Rafique,Haji Arshad Mehmood
Written by :Shahzad Rafique
Music by: Robin Ghosh (Late),Aamir Munawar
Cinematography:Adil Askri
Edited by:Mohammed Adeel PK
Production company: Cinetainment Production
Distributed by:IMGC Global Entertainment
Facebook:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHRA4P3joZw

3 Bahadur: The Revenge of Baba Balaam (تین بہادر: دی ریوینج آف بابا بالم)
3 Bahadur The Revenge of Baba Balaam (TRBB) is part of the film series 3 Bahadur released in May 2015. 3 Bahadur was the first commercial animated film of Pakistan produced by Oscar Winner Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy. 3 Bahadur proved blockbuster by earning around 6.5 crore with a budget of around 1.5 crore.

The success of 3 Bahadur prompted Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy to come up with the second part. In our country there has been very few films produced targetting the younger audience and 3 Bahadur series is the most prominent one. The success of this film might attract investors other than Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy to produce quality content for the younger audience too.

3 Bahadur TRBB will feature the voice overs from some very prominent artists Fahad Mustafa, Ahmed Ali Butt, Sarwat Gillani, Behroz Sabzwari and Zeba Shehnaz.

Film: 3 Bahadur: The Revenge of Baba Balaam (تین بہادر: دی ریوینج آف بابا بالم)
Release Date: 15 December 2016
Genre: Animated
Language: Urdu
Starring (Voice over): Fahim Khan,Zuhab Khan,Hanzala Shahid,Arisha Razi,Behroze Sabzwari,Ahmad Ali Butt,Ali Gul Pir,Fahad Mustafa,Mustafa Changazi,Sarwat Gilani,Zeba Shehnaz,Bassam Shazli,Hammad Siddiq
Directed by:Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy
Produced by:Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy,Salman Iqbal,Jerjees Seja
Production company: Waadi Animations
Distributed by     ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3bahadurmovie/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPaNjgkb428

So these are the five films scheduled to release this fall in the last quarter of the year 2016.

Thanks for your time. Keep supporting Paksitani cinema.

Trailer courtesy of PakistaniCinema youtube channnel
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcrkHtb7xGp47g7-qHM8G5Q
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/PakistaniCinema

Rashid Nazir Ali

December is the last month of the year 2017. With respect to the Urdu cinema, four films are releasing in this month which is a very healthy figure as only one major film Verna has been released after Eidul Azha (1st September 2017).

This month has one holiday of Quaid Day/Christmas on 25th December and normally film makers target the Christmas weekend. Apart from Christmas the Public Holiday of 12 Rabiul Awwal also falls on 1st December,so this month has two public holidays and two long weekends.

Three out of the four films releasing in this month are coming in the last week of the month where two are releasing on the Christmas weekend and one on the new year’s eve weekend.

Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو)
Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو) is medium budgeted film produced in Lahore and directed by Imran Adeeb. Imran Adeeb is the son of Nasir Adeeb the ever famous writer of our film industry. Nasir Adeeb attained fame after writing the Punjabi film, Maula Jatt in 1979 which proved a smashing hit. After Maula Jutt, Nasir Adeeb wrote hundreds of Punjabi films on the maula jutt theme till the death of Sultan Rahi (hero of Maula Jutt) in 1996.

Nasir Adeeb also directed around five Urdu/Punjabi films in late 1990s which received mixed response. Nasir Adeeb is also making a comeback as the film writer from IWL after a gap of few years.

IWL is a triangular love story featuring Hanan Sameed, Ali Tabish and Mahi Khan in the leading roles. Hanan Sameed has earlier worked in few low budgeted Punjabi and Urdu films only released in Punjab without much recognition. He later moved to Karachi and is actively working in dramas these days. IWL is his first prominent Urdu film.

Ali Tabish is also making a comeback to Urdu cinema. His debut film Pyar Hi Pyar Mein (PHPM) was released in 2003 which was not successful. PHPM was directed by Faheem Burney and introduced Ali Tabish with a filmi name Ashal. His second and last major Urdu film was Pehla Pehla Pyar (PPP) in 2007 which was also not successful. PPP was directed by Mubasher Lucman who later became a famous anchor person of our country. The heroine Mahi Khan is a new face on the big screen and seems more fit for Punjabi cinema than Urdu.

The major highlight of the film is its music which is melodious and has the traditional filmi music feel.

The release date of the film was announced in a press conference at Lahore Press Club in the mid of July 2017 which to date has been the only promotional activity of this film. The film was due to release on 11th August 2017 but then delayed and now releasing on 8th December 2017. Like the rest of the films produced by Lahore based film makers (Syed Noor, Sangeeta, Nadeem cheema), there has been no major promotion activity for the film.

Film: Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو)
Release Date: 8 December 2017
Genre: Romantic
Cast: Hanan Sameed, Mahi Khan, Ali Tabish, Raheela Agha and Anwar Ali
Written by: Nasir Adeeb
Directed by: Imran Adeeb
Produced by: Nasir Abbas
Music: Sanvel Khan
Production House: AAA Entertainment Company

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zK9JIcwkBig

Rangreza (رنگریزا)
Rangreza is a film announced in August 2016. Initially Sana Javed was in the lead role, but she later left the film and replaced by Urwa Hocane. The male leads of the film are Bilal Ashraf and Gohar Rasheed. The film is releasing on the Christmas weekend.

Rangreza is film based on musicians where Gohar Rasheed is playing the role of a member of Qawwal family. Bilal Ashraf is appearing as a popstar in the film. Ghana Ali and Aleezay Gabool are also in the cast thus making their big screen debut. The production team of the film is new being the first film of Amir Mohiuddin (Director), Yasir Mohiuddin (Producer) and Usman Malkani (Producer).

Senior artists Akbar Subhani, Seemi Pasha, Tanveer Jamal are also part of this film.

The striking highlight of Rangreza is its diverse music composed by Akhtar Qayyum. Acclaimed name of our music scene Abida Parveen, Asrar Shah, Fareed Ayaz, Abu Mohammad , Qurram Hussain have provided vocals for this film. Every song of this film is different and worth listening. The film also features a dance number Kallu ke londa ho gaya performed by Gohar Rasheed with 200 eunuchs (khawaja sara).

The production team has professionally and actively promoted the film from past six month or so. The first teaser of the film was launched in June 2017 before which a song Phool Khil Jayen was also released. The consequent songs released one by one every month since then. Since mid November, the star cast of the film is visiting different cities for film promotions.

Rangreza is also releasing outside Pakistan where its distribution rights are acquired by B4U Motion Pictures. B4U previously has also distributed films Janaan (2016) and Bin Roye (2015) where both proved super hit in UK.

Film: Rangreza (رنگریزا)
Release Date: 21 December 2017
Genre: Musical,Romantic
Cast: Bilal Ashrf, Urwa Hocane, Gohar Rasheed, Seemi Pasha, Akbar Subhani, Tanveer Jamal, Aleeze Gabool, Ghana Ali, Saleem Mairaj
Written by & Screenplay: Akhtar Qayyum
Directed by: Amir Mohiuddin
Produced by: Yasir Mohiuddin, Usman Malkani
Music: Akhtar Qayyum
Production House:
Distributor: ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RangrezaTheFilm/
Website: http://www.rangrezathefilm.com/

Arth (ارتھ) The Destination

Arth The Destination is a remake of the Bollywood film Arth of 1980s directed by Mahesh Bhatt. The official page of the film describes it as inspired from the Bollywood Arth. Shaan Shahid the director is also playing the lead role alongwith Humaima Malick, Uzma Hassan and Mohib Miza. Arth was announced in 2014 and it took three and a half year for Shaan to complete this master piece. In 2014 the initial cast of the film includes Humayun Saeed, later replaced by Mohib Mirza. After three years of completion the film is now releasing on the Christmas weekend.

The teasers of Arth were released in July 2017. The film is shot in UK and Pakistan. Shaan Shahid is returning to film direction from Arth2, where his last film Zille Shah (as director) was released a decade ago. Shaan Shahid has also wrote the script of the film. Uzma Hassan known for her power pack performances in the television dramas, is making her big screen debut.

Shaan Shahid is a brand name and the biggest star of Pakistan cinema of current era. He is one of the very few film person of the old (defunct)cinema of 1990s, who successfully transitioned into the new age Pakistani cinema (Other such name is Shafqat Cheema).

Shaan Shahid is playing the role of a singer in this film. Mohib Mirza and Humaima Malick are also playing important roles in the film. After Bol (2011) and Dekh Magar Pyar Se (2015) it is the third Urdu film of Humaima Malick. Mohib Mirza last appeared in Teri Meri Love Story (September 2016).

Musician Emu, who was part of the Fuzon Band is also playing a role in this film, his first appearance on the big screen.

Music is another major plus of the Arth The Destination. Its one song Sanwar De in the voice of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan released last month and is gaining immense popularity. The promotion of this film has been a weak area, as it is not actively promoted by Shaan Shahid.

Unlike Rangreza which has partnered with the ARY Network for promotion, Arth The Destination has no official media partner. So far the promotion is limited to social media only, but the star cast of the film has announced visits to shopping malls, restaurants and education institutions from 2nd December 2017.

Film: Arth (ارتھ) The Destination
Release Date: 21 December 2017
Genre: Musical,Romantic, Drama
Cast: Shaan Shahid, Mohib Mirza, Humaima Malick, Uzma Hassan, Emu, Nadia Ramzan,
Written by & Screenplay: Shaan Shahid
Directed by: Shaan Shahid
Produced by: Hammad Chaudhary, Faraz Chaudhary, Shaan Shahid
Music: Sahir Ali Bagga
Production House: HKC Entertainment, 5th Element
Distributor: DC (Distribution Club)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArthTheDestination

Chuppan Chupai (چھپن چھپائی)

Chuppan Chupai is a film announced two years ago. It is a comedy film starring Ahsan Khan and Naeelum Munir. Ahsan Khan is returning to big screen after a gap of few years, while Neelum Muneer is starting her big screen career.

Ahsan Khan has been a popular name on television for past many years, so it will be interesting to see translating to this success on the big screen. Ahsan Khan last appeared in Urdu film Sultanat (2015) in a brief role. Punjabi Film, Ishq Khuda (2013) was his last film in the leading role.

Neelum Munir is also a popular name of television dramas. Comedy genre (with a pinch of romance) or RomCom films have emerged as the most popular film category in the recent times.

Other prominent names in the cast are Adnan Jaffer, Sakina Sammo, Faizan Khawaja, Rehan Sheikh and Talat Hussain. The trailer of the film was released last week and received positive response on the social media. It is a light entertaining film. In the recent history comedy has emerged as the most popular genre for the local films, so Chuppan Chupai will appeal to audience of the comedy films.

Chuppan Chupai is written and directed by Mohsin Ali who has directed many famous television dramas. Mohsin has earlier also written Wrong No (2015), but Chuppan Chupai is his first direction assignment in films.

Film: Chuppan Chupai (چھپن چھپائی)
Release Date: 29 December 2017
Genre: Comedy Thriller
Cast: Ahsan Khan, Neelam Muneer, Wajdaan Shah, Adnan Jaffar, Sakina Samo, Talat Hussain, Rehan Sheikh, Faizan Khawaja, Saife Hassan
Written by & Screenplay: Mohsin Ali & Zeeshan Haider
Directed by: Mohsin Ali
Produced by: Ray Khan & Zayed Sheikh
Music: Adnan Dhool
Production House: Huzu Entertainment
Distributor: Hum Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChupanChupaiTheFilm/

So it concludes the list of the films releasing in the month of December. Three out of these four films are big budgeted films namely Rangreza, Arth The Destination and Chuppan Chupai. Rangreza and Arth The Destination releasing on the same weekend also have slight similarity as the main protagonist in both the films is a musician (pop star). But story wise both films are far apart from each other as it is evident from the trailers.

The last film of the year Chuppan Chupai seems a fun ride providing a happy adieu to the year 2017. All these three films have many positives and will definitely provide a solid last 10 days of entertainment to audience.

Thanks for reading and your time. Do comment about the December releases.

Keep supporting local cinema.

December the last month of the year has started. Five Urdu films are scheduled to release in this month.

Salute (سیلوٹ)
Salute is directed and produced by Shahzad Rafique a famous director/producer from Lahore. Shahzad Rafique has some successful Urdu/Punjabi films to his credit like Ghoonghat (1995 as producer), Nikaah (1998 as producer), Salakhain (2004 as director), Mohabtan Sachiyan (Punjabi 2009), Ishq Khuda (Punjabi film in 2014 as producer/director).

Salute is based on the real life events of Aitzaz Hassan, a school boy from Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Aitzaz Hassan sacrificed his life to save his fellow schoolmates by stopping a suicide bomber. Salute stars some big names of cinema like Saima Noor and Ajab Gull in the lead roles. Saima Noor and Ajab Gull are appearing as parents of Aitzaz Hassan character. Ali Mohtesham is appearing in the role of Aitzaz Hassan.

Salute has been under production for more than two years and is delayed multiple times. Now finally it is releasing on 2nd December 2016.

Salute also features a song composed by Robin Ghosh (Late), the legendary musician from Bangladesh who composed many immortal melodies for Pakistani cinema.

Film: Salute (سیلوٹ)
Release Date: 2 December 2016
Genre: Biopic
Language: Urdu, Pasho
Starring: Ali Mohtesham,Saima Noor,Ajab Gul,Nayyar Ejaz,Pervaiz Kaleem,Adnan Khan,Rashid Mehmood,Jalal Haider,Mahnoor
Directed by:Shahzad Rafique
Produced by:Shahzad Rafique,Haji Arshad Mehmood
Written by :Shahzad Rafique
Music by: Robin Ghosh (Late),Aamir Munawar
Cinematography:Adil Askri
Edited by:Mohammed Adeel PK
Production company: Cinetainment Production
Distributed by:IMGC Global Entertainment
Facebook:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHRA4P3joZw

8969
8969 is a film directed by Azeem Sajjad. Azeem Sajjad is mainly known for his acting in the dramas of PTV Peshawar centre in 1990s. He also directed few dramas for in Pashto and Urdu like Za Pashtoon Yum for Pashto Channel AVT Khyber. 8969 is his first film as a director.

As per Azeem Sajjad
“The film name ‘8969’ is a mystery and can only be solved by watching it. The flick is based on true events keeping in view the motto of education through entertainment.” The prime focus in the film was to discourage youth from ‘misusing’ the internet, especially social media sites.

This film comprises of three songs, where one is a sleazy dance number or item number shot on Saba Qamar. Saba Qamar has already described this film as the biggest mistake of her career.

Starring: Azeem Sajjad, Saba Qamar,Hussain Tiwana,Sadaf Hamid,Anam Malik,Haseeb Khan,Sama Shah,Noor-ul-Hassan,Zunaira Maham,Oun Sarwar,Ali Jabran Khan
Release Date: 2 December 2016
Genre:
Directed By: Azeem Sajjad
Music: Raheel Fayyaz
Produced By: Imran Zafar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/8969film

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glVWB_OU0j4

3 Bahadur: The Revenge of Baba Balaam (تین بہادر: دی ریوینج آف بابا بالم)
3 Bahadur The Revenge of Baba Balaam (TRBB) is part of the film series 3 Bahadur released in May 2015. 3 Bahadur was the first commercial animated film of Pakistan produced by Oscar Winner Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy. 3 Bahadur proved blockbuster by earning around 6.5 crore with a budget of around 1.5 crore.

The success of 3 Bahadur prompted Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy to come up with the second part. In our country there is severe shortage films targeting the younger audience and 3 Bahadur series is the most prominent one. The success of this film might attract investors other than Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy to produce quality content for the younger audience too.

3 Bahadur TRBB will feature the voice overs from some very prominent artists Fahad Mustafa, Ahmed Ali Butt, Sarwat Gillani, Behroz Sabzwari and Zeba Shehnaz.

Film: 3 Bahadur: The Revenge of Baba Balaam (تین بہادر: دی ریوینج آف بابا بالم)
Release Date: 15 December 2016
Genre: Animated
Language: Urdu
Starring (Voice over): Fahim Khan,Zuhab Khan,Hanzala Shahid,Arisha Razi,Behroze Sabzwari,Ahmad Ali Butt,Ali Gul Pir,Fahad Mustafa,Mustafa Changazi,Sarwat Gilani,Zeba Shehnaz,Bassam Shazli,Hammad Siddiq
Directed by:Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy
Produced by:Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy,Salman Iqbal,Jerjees Seja
Production company: Waadi Animations
Distributed by:     ARY Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3bahadurmovie/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPaNjgkb428

Jazba (جذبہ)

Jazba is produced in Lahore. The film was started with the name ‘My Country’ but later its name is changed to Jazba. Its trailer is not available yet. Jazba features Babrik Shah in the lead role.

Film: Jazba (جذبہ)
Release Date: 16 December 2016
Starring: Babrik Shah, Hina Mumtaz, Babar Khan, Faryal Rana, Sheraz Sikandar, Usman, Shafique Raja, Shahid Hashmi, Saleem Albela, Sami
Directed by:Asad Javed
Written by:Abar Jaib
Produced by:Asad Javed

Moula Way  (مولا وے)

Moula Way is a long delayed film under production for past several years. The highlight of this film is Babrik Shah, who has participated in multiple aspect of this film either back camera or front camera. He is the producer, director, writer, lead artistfor this film.

Film: Moula Way  (مولا وے)
Release Date: 23 December 2016
Starring: Babrik Shah, Jahangir Jani, Raheela Agha
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moulaway/

So these are the films scheduled to release this fall in the last month of the year 2016.

Thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

August the eight month of the year 2017 has started. August is the month in which our independence day falls, the 14th of this month is also the only public holiday. The independence day holiday usually has some film releases on its adjoining weekends. The 14th August holiday can be targeted for any film based on a patriotic theme.

Apart from the Independence day holiday the number of film releases in August is usually on the high side due to summer vacations in educational institutions.

Three Urdu films are releasing in August 2017, where all are coming on Friday 11 August 2017 the independence day weekend.

Geo Sar Utha Ke (جیو سر اٹھا کے)
Geo Sar Utha Ke (جیو سر اٹھا کے) is a film featuring Shafqat Cheema in the leading role. The film highlights the sacrifices of Police in ensuring law and order and fighting the evil elements of society. In the recent times there has been films like Waar, Maalik, Yalghaar, Saye Khudae Zuljalal based on the sacrifices of military and army based security agencies. GSUK highlights the efforts of civilian law enforcement agencies mainly Police.

Shafqat Cheema has been a seasoned name of our cinema from past three decades as a solid performer in negative roles. He has appeared as villain in many films as the hate-able character. n GSUK he is appearing as a leader of an outlaw gang challenging the law enforcement agencies while committing notorious crimes. The film is loosely based on the famous outlaw and wanted criminal Chooto Gang (چھوٹو گینگ), active in the Rajanpur and Rojhan areas of Southern Punjab. GSUK seems to be a film which is more about antagonist than its protagonist.

Alongside Shafqat Cheema, the other main characters in the film is a group of four young security enforcement officers performed on the screen by new faces. One of the police officers is shown as a Pakistani Sikh.

Umar Cheema who last appeared in Saya Khudae Zuljalal (December 2016) in a supporting role is appearing as the main protagonist, a young devoted police officer fighting the criminals. Babar Ali is also playing an important role in the film.

GSUK is directed by Nadeem Cheema, the son of Shafqat Cheema and its his first film as a director.

The film also features an item song shot on Mahnoor a famous theater artist of Lahore. From the trailer GSUK seems to be a loud commercial film based on a message but with loads of action, emotions and a pinch of glamour.

Film: Geo Sar Utha Ke (جیو سر اٹھا کے)
Release Date: 11 August 2017
Genre: Action
Cast: Babar Ali, Umar Cheema, Yasir Khan, Shehryar Cheema, Shafqat Cheema.
Written by: Nasir Sheikh
Directed by: Nadeem Cheema
Produced by: Nadeem Cheema & Rashid Iqbal
Production House: Cheema Films
Distributor: Distribution Club
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeoSarUthaKay

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRVfebFVEbE

Chain Aaye Naa (چین آۓ نا)
Chain Aaye Naa (CAN) is a musical romantic film releasing on 11th August 2017. Due to release on 21st July 2017, it is delayed as the film maker requires more time for the promotion and marketing of the film.

The major highlight of Chain Aaye Naa is its director and producer Syed Noor, one of the last renown names of now defunct film industry of Lahore. Syed Noor has a lots of successful films to his credit in the 1990s like Jeeva, Ghoonghat, Sangam, Choorian, Daku Rani, Deewane Tere Pyar Ke. His last Urdu film Jhoomar was released in 2007 so Syed Noor is returning to Urdu cinema after a gap of one decade. Though he was active in Punjabi films during the last decade where Shareeka in 2012 was his last Punjabi film.

CAN marks the comeback of Syed Noor to the Urdu cinema. It is the debut film of Sehrish Khan an artist of Pakistani origin from USA. Sehrish Khan is the grand daughter of Sabiha Khanum and Santosh Kumar two legendary names of our cinema.

Shehroz Sabzwari is appearing as the male lead opposite Sehrish Khan. CAN is also the debut film of Shehroz Sabzwari, though he has worked as a childstar in Khulay Aasman Ke Neeche in 2007. Shehroz is the son of famous artist Behroz Sabzwari and nephew of Javed Sheikh a seasoned name of Pakistani cinema.

Adil Murad the son of Waheed Murad is also making a comeback to the big screen after two decades from this film. His last and only film to date Raja Saab was released in 1995.

Atiqa Odho and Nadeem Baig are working as a pair after a gap of almost two decades their last film Mummy was released in 1997.

Saima Noor an essential ingredient in the films of Syed Noor is surprisingly missing in this film. The trailer of the film was released on 22nd June 2017 which looks dull and tasteless in every aspect. On the whole the trailer of CAN has greatly disappointed anyone waiting for a strong comeback from Syed Noor. As evident from the trailer the film follows the pattern of an 1980s film with over emotional sequences, bad acting, lack of direction, sub par camerawork and unimpressive editing. The only strong aspect could have been its music as the main protagonist of the film is a musician, but alas its music also look outdated as many songs released in 1990s are reused in this film.

Film: Chain Aaye Naa (چین آۓ نا)
Release Date: 11th August 2017
Genre: Romantic Musical
Cast: Shahroz Sabzwari, Sarish Khan, Adil Murad, Nadeem, Behroze Sabzwari, Mustafa Qureshi, Atiqa Odho, Danish Nawaz, Waqar Godhra, Sobia Khan, Maryam
Music: M. Arshad, Javed Siddiqui, Naim Sakhia and Syed Noor
DOP: Irfan Mirza
Writer: Syed Noor
Directed by: Syed Noor
Produced by: Javed Siddiqui, Naim Sakhia and Syed Noor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChainAyeNa/
Website: http://www.chainayena.net/

Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو)
Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو) is medium budgeted film produced in Lahore and directed by Imran Adeeb. Imran Adeeb is the son of Nasir Adeeb the ever famous writer of our film industry. Nasir Adeeb attained fame after writing the Punjabi film, Maula Jatt in 1979 which proved a smashing hit. After Maula Jutt, Nasir Adeeb wrote hundreds of Punjabi films on the maula jutt theme till the death of Sultan Rahi (hero of Maula Jutt) in 1996.

Nasir Adeeb also directed around five Urdu/Punjabi films in late 1990s which recieved mixed response. Nasir Adeeb is also making a comeback as the film writer from IWL after a gap of few years.

IWL is a triangular love story featuring Hanan Sameed, Ali Tabish and Mahi Khan in the leading roles. Hanan Sameed has earlier worked in few low budgeted Punjabi and Urdu films only released in Punjab without much recognition. He later moved to Karachi and is actively working in dramas these days. IWL is his first prominent Urdu film.

Ali Tabish is also making a comeback to Urdu cinema. His debut film Pyar Hi Pyar Mein (PHPM) was released in 2003 which was not successful. PHPM was directed by Faheem Burney and introduced Ali Tabish with a filmi name Ashal. His second and last major Urdu film was Pehla Pehla Pyar (PPP) in 2007 which was also not successful. PPP was directed by Mubasher Lucman who later became a famous anchor person of our country.

The heroine Mahi Khan is a new face on the big screen and seems more fit for Punjabi cinema than Urdu.

The release date of the film was announced in a press conference at Lahore Press Club in the mid of July 2017 which to date has been the only promotional activity of this film. The major highlight of IWL is its music which is melodious and filmi.

Film: Ishq Wala Love (عشق والا لو)
Release Date: 11 August 2017
Genre: Romanctic Musical
Cast: Hanan Sameed, Mahi Khan, Ali Tabish, Raheela Agha and Anwar Ali
Written by: Nasir Adeeb
Directed by: Imran Adeeb
Produced by: Nasir Abbas
Music: Sanwal Khan
Production House:AAA Entertainment
Facebook:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad6jz2NLKoo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad6jz2NLKoo

Here are two songs from Ishq Wala Love

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNochyuIYog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRlBRJC5xeA

So these are the three Urdu films releasing in the month of July 2017.

Thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

April the fourth month of the year 2018 has started. This month has no official holiday. This is the month in which summer season starts in most parts of our country. Few local festivals like Mailan Chiraghan, Baisakhi also fall in this month.

No significant sports event falls in this month. Relatively favorable weather and absence of any sporting activity usually attracts film makers. But since 2013, the number of Urdu films in this month has been on the lower side. Last year (2017) only one film Chalay Thay Saath was released on 21st April 2017 and it also proved average at the box office.

This year too only one Urdu film is releasing in this month which is not a mainstream commercial film.

Motrocycle Girl (موٹر سائیکل گرل)
Motorcycle Girl is the only Urdu film releasing in the month of April. It is the second film directed by Adnan Sarwar, where the first one Shah was released on 14th August 2015. Shah was a biopic about the Olympian boxer Hussain Shah. Though not much successful at the box office, Shah was widely praised for its solid content. The film also gave recognition to Adnan Sarwar as a film actor, director and producer.

After a gap of almost 3 years Adnan Sarwar is back with another content based film, which is also inspired from true life events. The film is loosely based on the boundary-breaking motorcycle journeys of Zenith Irfan who, at 20 years of age, is thought to be the first Pakistani woman to have made a solo motorcycle journey through the northern regions of the country.

While Adnan Sarwar produced Shah alone, for the Motorcycle Girl Jami (Jamshed Raza) has also joined in as a co-producer. Jami is also an acclaimed film and ad director, known for his film Moor also released on 14th August 2015. The combination of Adnan Sarwar and Jami definitely raises the expectation towards Motorcycle Girl.

In the film Sohai Ali Aabro is playing the role of Zenith Irfan. To prepare for her role, Sohai Ali Abro undertook extensive motorcycle training and followed Zenith Irfan’s bike journey from Lahore to Khanjerab during the shooting of the film.

The trailer of the film was released in the last week of March 2018 and so far recieved positive response on the social media. The film is shot on the scenic locations of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Ali Kazmi is playing the male lead in this film opposite Sohai Ali Aabro. Another notable name in the cast is Samina Peerzada who is appearing in a film after a long gap of nineteen years. Samina last appeared in the Urdu film Inteha in a guest role released in February 1999. In Motorcycle Girl, Samina is playing the role of the mother of Sohai Ali Aabro.

Sarmad Sultan Khoosat, who last appeared in Manto (September 2015) is also playing a supporting role in this film.

Motorcycle Girl is not a mainstream commercial film, and such films struggle with the masses. Such films usually have a limited audience at large multiplexes. It will be interesting to see the response of audience towards this film.

Film: Motorcycle Girl (موٹر سائیکل گرل)
Release Date: 20th April 2018
Genre: Adventure, Family, Comedy
Cast: Sohai Ali Abro, Ali Kazmi, Samina Peerzada, Sarmad Khoosat, Shamim Hilali
Written by: Adnan Sarwar
Directed by: Adnan Sarwar
Produced by: Adnan Sarwar
Co-produced By: Jami
Music: Xulfi
Production House: Logos Films (Adnan Sarwar) & Azaad Film Company (Jami)
Distributor: Excellency films
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MotorcycleGirlMovie/

So it concludes the introduction of the Urdu films coming in April 2018.

Thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

April the fourth month of the year 2017 has started. This month has no official holiday means no long weekend window for prolonged cinema business. This is the month in which summer starts in most parts of our country. Though no official holiday falls in this month, but the encouraging sign for the cinema industry is the absence of any major sporting event. In February and March cinema business is impacted due to the Pakistan Super League.

So far this year has been disappointing for Urdu films. All four Urdu films released in the first three months of 2017 so far have failed to leave much impact. Two Urdu films are releasing in April 2017.

Tum Hee Ho (تم ہی ہو)
Tum Hee Ho is the comeback of veteran film director Sangeeta on big screen. Sangeeta has been the most successful female director of our country directing more than 70 films in Urdu, Punjabi and Pashto. Sangeeta’s first film as a director was Society Girl in 1976 which proved successful.Till late 1980s Sangeeta was known for experimenting and making films with different subject. However with the decline in the production of Urdu films, she also directed many Punjabi films which easily falls in the category of Pulp cinema.

Tum Hee Ho is a story based on youth, romance of college students where Danish Tamoor and Quratulain are playing the lead roles. After the successful film Wrong No. in July 2015 it is the first film of Danish Tamoor. Quratulain last appeared in Swaal 700 Crore Dollar Ka (SSCDK) in July 2016. SSCDK failed at box office and Quratulain also struggled to register her presence.

The second lead artists in the film is Sheraz Sikandar and Mathira. Sheraz Sikandar has worked in few low budget films released last year like Fiker Not (March 2016) and Jazba (December 2016).

Mathira whose last film Blind Love (August 2016) bombed at the box office is back in action from Tum Hee Ho. Like her previous two films Mein Hoon Shahid Afridi (2013) and Blind Love (2016), Mathira is again performing in a flashy song.

Other prominent names playing the supporting roles in this film are Sajid Hassan, Umber Khan, Sangeeta, Ghana Ali.

Tum Hee Ho was under production for past two years and is shot entirely in Pakistan. Its trailer was released on 8th March 2017 and the film is releasing on 14th April 2017.

From the trailer anyone following Sangeeta’s work can easily conclude that it is far below her past work. The music of the film (apart from one song by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan)is not impressive, acting looks below par, story looks disjointed and the unnecessary steamy song on Mathira is beyond distasteful. The promotion of the film has also been quite dull, apart from releasing the trailer Geo Films and Sangeeta has not done any considerable marketing.

Film: Tum Hee Ho (تم ہی ہو)
Release Date: 14th April 2017
Genre: Romance, Drama
Cast: Danish Tamoor, Quratulain, Sheraz Sikandar, Mathira, Umber Khan, Sangeeta, Sajid Hassan
Music: Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Farooq Rao, Ali Sajid
Written by: Suraj Baba
Directed by: Sangeeta
Executive Producer: Raza Ali
Produced by: Sangeeta, Tariq Hafeez
Production House: Sangeeta Films
Distributor: Geo Films
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sangeeta-Films-275447062877819/
Website:

Chalay Thay Saath (چلے تھے ساتھ)
Chalay Thay Saath (CTS) is the first film of Syra Shehroz in a lead role where her first film was Ho Mann Jahan (January 2016) in which she had a small cameo appearance. The unique aspect of the CTS is the male lead played by Canadian (of Chinese origin) artist Kent S Leong.

China is known as an all weather friend of Pakistan and it is the first film based on the romance of a Chinese and Pakistani. Previously Pakistan Television (PTV) has produced two tele films back in the 1980s based on the Pak-China friendship. One of these telefilms featured Behroz Sabzwari who is also playing an important role in CTS.

CTS also stars Zhalay Sarhadi, Mansha Pasha, Faris Khalid and Shamim Hilali. CTS is shot on the scenic locations of Gilgit Baltistan (GB) the area along the border with China. GB is known for its scenic locations and plenty of these from the Hunza valley can be seen in CTS.

The trailer of CTS was released in March 2016 and instantly get noticed due to its relatively fresh treatment. From the trailer the film looks decent, understated and subtle. But it somewhat lacks the ingredient termed as filminess, a must have aspect of films of sub-continent.

The music of the film is composed by Abbas Ali Khan and is quite light if evaluated on the scale of film music. It will be interesting to see how CTS performs on the box office. The success of such films can bring the element of subtlety in our films which at times became too loud to absorb.

Film: Chalay Thay Saath (چلے تھے ساتھ)
Release Date: 21st April 2017
Genre: Romance, Drama
Cast: Saira Shahroz, Mansha Pasha, Osama Tahir, Zhalay Sarhadi, Kent S. Leung, Behroz Sabzwari, Faris Khalid, Sherbaaz Kaleem and Shamim Halai
Music: Abbas Ali Khan, Mooroo
Written by: Atiya Zaidi
Directed by: Umer Adil
Produced by: Beenish Umer
Production House:  We Think Films & Hot Water Bottle Films
Distributor: IMGC
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/chalaythaysaath
Youtube:
Website:

So this sums up the Urdu films releasing in April 2017. So far no Urdu film is announced to be released in the next month i.e. May 2017, so after April, further Urdu films are lined up in the end of June 2017 on Eidul Fitr.

Do share your thoughts and thanks for your time.

Rashid Nazir Ali

The month of August has started which also includes the independence day of Pakistan on the 14th August 2016. 14th August is a public holiday and like Eid Holidays provides a special occasion to release films. Last year after a gap of many years, three Urdu films were released on the independence day 14th August i.e. Shah, Moor, Dekh Magar Pyar Se .

However this year no Urdu film is releasing on the 14th August. An Urdu film Salute was earlier announced to release on the 12th August the weekend Friday preceding the Independance day weekend. Salute is based on the life of Aitzaz Ahsan a young boy from Hango, KPK who sacrificed his life to save his school fellows from a suicide bomber. But Salute is now delayed to September 2016 as two major Indian Bollywood films Mohenjodaro and Rustam are lined up to release on the same date.

On the whole so far two Urdu films are announced to be released in the month of August, both films are releasing in the first week of the month i.e 5th August 2016.

Dance Kahani (ڈانس کہانی)
As the name suggests Dance Kahani is claimed to be the first Pakistani film based completely on dance. It is not a mainstream film and have relatively unknown names in the cast.

Dance Kahani explores the underground dance culture and free running on the streets of Karachi. Its music is already out and can be accessed at these music platforms

Patari:http://patari.pk/home/artist/Dance-Kahani-OST
Taazi:http://taazi.com/DanceKahani
Soundcloud:https://soundcloud.com/user-787028960

Film:Dance Kahani (ڈانس کہانی)
Release Date: 5th August 2016
Language:Urdu, English
Starring:Madeleine Madeleine Hanna,Vernin U’chong,Alamdar Khan,Abdul Ghani,Shezi Khan,Ramiz Law,Abdul Rahim,Ali Parkour,Irfan,Imran Shaukat,Rahid Sami,Sabiha Zia ,Talat,Niggy Imtiaz,Barkat Ali, Asifa Ataka, Sajjad Ali,Farhan Baig
Directed by:Omar Hassan
Produced by:Zahir Ali and Omar Hassan
Written by:Omar Hassan
Screenplay by:Shabbir Siraj
Music by:Usman Bin Sohail
Cinematography:Asrad Ali
Edited by :Ahmed Ali
Production company:OSCO FILMS,99 FILMS,Ion Entertainment
Distributed by:Summit Entertainment
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancekahani

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1JfqdczJsI

Blind Love (بلائنڈ لو)
Blind Love is a commercial Urdu film produced in Lahore. It is shot in Lahore and scenic location of Northern Pakistan.

The cast consists of almost all new faces. Nimra Khan, Yasir Shah, Aamir Qureshi, Fawad Jalal, Imran Bukhtari all are making their debuts on big screen from this film. It is also the second film of Mathira after a gap of three years. Aamir Qureshi is playing the role of the villain in this film like his father Mustafa Qureshi who is the most well known villain of the Pakistani films.

Blind Love was lined up to release on Eidul Fitr on 6th July 2016, but relocated to 29th July 2016 as most of the shows at cinemas were allotted to Bollywood film Sultan. However on 29th July 2016 another Bollywood film Dishoom was releasing and thus Blind Love is again delayed by one week and now releasing on 5th August 2016. Ironically Bollywood film Dishoom was not given a censor certificate by the censor board.

Blind Love is the love story of a rich blind girl played by Nimra Shah. Blind Love is directed by Faisal Bukhari who is known for pure formula films.Faisal Bukhari’s last two films were also pure commercial flicks i.e. Bhai Log (2011) and Sultanat (2014). Following the same pattern Blind Love has romance, emotions, songs, dances, a bit of action, scenic locations and on top of it a steamy item number Butter Jawani which off course is shot on Mathira.

Film:Blind Love (بلائنڈ لو)
Release Date: 5 August 2016
Cast: Nimra Khan, Yasir Shah, Imran Bukhari, Mathira, Aamir Qureshi, Fawad Jalal
Genre: Love Action Thriller
Music: Naveed Nashad
Writer: M Parvez Kalim
Director: Faisal Bukhari
Producer: Mian Amjad Farzand, Ch.Zulfiqar Ahmed, Ch.Ijaz Kamran
Production Company: Producers Alliance
Distributed by: IMGC Global
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blindlovemovie

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2ZczRRjCM4

So these are the Urdu films scheduled to releasing in August.

Trailer courtesy of PakistaniCinema Fan page
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAgBFzV3J4hrbRMcBcsehvg
https://www.facebook.com/PakistaniCinema

Rashid Nazir Ali