Actor and producer Fahad Mustafa has appealed to the Punjab government to extend cinema opening hours. His request comes after new austerity measures forced shopping malls and cinemas to close earlier than usual.
The actor believes that longer cinema timings can help the film industry grow and allow more people to enjoy movies.
In an open letter addressed to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, he explained that many people are busy during the day with work, studies, and family responsibilities. Because of this, they often prefer to watch movies in the evening. However, the current early closing time of malls and cinemas is making it difficult for audiences to attend screenings.
The government introduced the restrictions as an energy-saving measure. According to Fahad, this has reduced the number of film screenings and affected new releases.
The actor said that a small extension in cinema timings could increase ticket sales and help cinemas, film distributors, and workers in the entertainment sectors.
Fahad Mustafa praised the Punjab government for supporting the film industry through projects such as Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s Film City plan in Lahore. He requested the government to once again support filmmakers by allowing cinemas to stay open a little longer.
Zombeid film was released during Eidul Azha and currently showing in cinemas across Pakistan. The movie is competing with other local releases for audience attention. Industry experts says that relaxed cinema timings could help Pakistani films reach more viewers and generate higher revenue.