There should be more variation in Pakistani cinema: Sami Khan | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

There should be more variation in Pakistani cinema: Sami Khan

Pakistan Press Foundation

LAHORE: At a recent press conference for upcoming film Gumm, actor Sami Khan spoke of the evolution of Pakistan’s cinema industry. “The coming years will see our industry become the strongest it’s ever been,” he said.

Promoting his upcoming film, Sami shared that Gumm is slated to release on January 11, 2018. He was joined by directors Kanza Zia and Ammar Lasani, and actor Shameen Khan. After Lahore, the team will carry out promotional campaigns in numerous other cities around the nation. “There is currently a lack of new film-making experiences here because we are doing everything based on specific subject matters and following trends. Instead, there should be variations within film production,” he added.

Sami further stated that although local film-makers are too impressed with Bollywood but Gumm is a different story. “We are sure it will definitely entertain the public. I believe that after watching this film, people will have more faith in local stakeholders and believe that good films can be produced within Pakistan,” shared the actor. “We made Gumm as a contribution to the betterment of our local film industry. It is a unique thriller and everyone associated with this film has done their best.”

Kanza expressed that the beginning of this year has proved to be an important time for them as Gumm is the first local production to see the light of day in 2019 and it has already been presented at international film festivals and received over 15 nominations and seven awards: three for Best Screenplay, two for Best Actor (Sami), one for Best Director and another for Best Editor.

“Gumm has won awards at an international level and now, due to the local public’s response, I am sure it will be a super hit film in Pakistan. We hope that the success of Gumm will bring with it a new film-making trend and encourage more new ventures. We expect to see the situation within our film industry take a turn for the better,” said Kanza. “Gummis a beautiful story and will attract the public to cinema houses. Gumm’swhole team is expecting a maximum response and we are trying our best to get the word out there through these promotions.”

The film’s cast and crew also spoke of their varying roles and shared their experiences during the shooting for the film in Islamabad. They also visited various shopping malls and cinema halls for the films promotion.

Gumm’s story features action, crime and thriller. The film has been produced by Shakeel Anjum and directed by Ammar Lasani and Kanza Zia, who have also written it. The cast features actors Shamoon Abbasi along with Shameen and Sami too. The film revolves around a wanted criminal and a desperate father who are connected to one another by way of some unfortunate events. According to the writers, besides the crime and thriller aspect, Gumm also offers elements of light comedy.

The Express Tribune