2016 didn’t turn out to be a good year for Pakistani cinema as most of the films released in this period have failed to make a mark, disappointing both viewers and critics in equal measure.
However, positive change is expected come 2017. With a slew of potentially good movies in the pipeline, the coming year definitely holds promise.
Our story begins with an upcoming film by one Adil Umer called Chalay Thay Saath (CTS) which will feature Syra Shehroz in the lead role. Expected to release in the first quarter of 2017, the film, according to initial reports, is a light hearted tale that revolves around the intricacies of relationships and family values. Other universal themes explored in the film will be that of love, loss and friendship.
Aside from this, CTS in a unique twist of fate will also highlight the ‘emotional’ ties Pakistan shares with its neighbouring country - China. To that end, the upcoming feature will star Chinese actor Kent S Leung (who is reportedly playing Shehroz’s love interest) in a prominent role. Apart from Shehroz and Leung, the cast includes names like Mansha Pasha, Zhalay Sarhadi, Behroz Sabzwari, Shamim Hilaly, Faris Khalid, Osama Tahir and Sherbaaz Kaleem.
Shot in the beautiful region of Gilgit Baltistan, it’s a romantic drama that aims to promote a positive image of Pakistan.