7 must-watch films that have returned to Pakistani cinemas

With the current tensions between Pakistan and India, local cinema owners have largely removed Bollywood films from their screens.

As a result, many Pakistani and Hollywood films are getting some additional screen-time. And looking at the options that have returned, we don’t mind at all!

While films like Jurassic World 2, Azaadi and Furious 8return in select spots, we went through the list and have picked out the films we’re happy to see back on the silver screen and we feel you all should visit/revisit while you have the chance.

1) Jawani Phir Nahi Aani 2

The JPNA sequel reportedly broke all box office records when it first released, making it the highest grossing film of Pakistan. And we understand why! With non-problematic slapstick humour, the film asks you to suspend your disbelief so that you can get the most laughs out of it. Also, Fahad Mustafa does a great job in the film.

2) Pinky Memsaab

What really sets Pinky Memsaab apart is the absence of masala comedy or musical sequences. The Hajra Yamin-starrer is based on a simple idea about a maid living in Dubai who aspires to hold her own. The film is thankfully free of any cringe-worth silly antics to achieve that; instead, it makes an attempt to show the beauty of women supporting women.

3) Spider-man: Into the Spiderverse

Spiderverse has won multiple awards since its release in December with the latest being the Oscar and we see why. With beautiful visuals, a promising script and some of the most brilliant artwork ever to have hit the screen, the movie is a landmark film for animation. In many countries it has been on screens since its release and still is. Plus, it’s Spider-Man, how can you resist that?

4) Parwaaz Hai Junoon

With a stellar cast and an homage to the Pakistan Air Force, PHJ combines romance, drama and tragedy with a sense of pride for the country and balances it all out with some very welcome comedy bits. We all enjoy a good laugh, don’t we?

5) Donkey King

At this point, we can’t tell whether The Donkey King has been brought back in the cinemas or was just on all along, but oh well. The film is one of Pakistan’s finest works when it comes to animation and has been received positively with its audience. With cute characters and an unapologetic call out to the corruption within politics, the film is a fun watch and has something in it for everyone.

6) Bohemian Rhapsody

Bohemian Rhapsody has been described as a celebration of rock band Queen and is a must watch for any who love the band… and for those living under a rock and aren’t familiar with the band’s amazing work, it’s a great introduction. Rami Malek has numerous accolades under his belt for his portrayal of Queen frontman and vocalist Freddie Mercury and for good reason.

7) 3 Bahadur: Rise of the Warriors

3 Bahadur is Pakistan’s first 3D animated feature and that’s a big milestone. Its third installment boasts a star-studded cast and a plot that children will enjoy, while having major improvements in story and animation as compared to its prequels. We don’t have many movies catered directly to children, and for them to have a nice option that offers entertainment along with important social messages is a plus in our books.