Pakistani cinemas screen two Bangladeshi movies to foster bonhomie ties

In an effort to strengthen bonhomie ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, two Bangladeshi films were showcased in Pakistani cinemas in 2024 to foster goodwill in the entertainment industry. However, the films failed to make a significant impact at the box office.

According to Geo Digital, the horror movie Mona Jinn 2 and the action blockbuster Tofaan were released on Pakistan's silver screens this year.

Mona Jinn 2, which was shown with English subtitles, struggled to gain traction, unlike the success of a previous Indonesian horror film.

"Language wasn’t the only factor behind its poor performance. For example, the Indonesian film Sajeen, which was also subtitled, managed to earn Rs 200 million even in its early release stages," Geo Digital quoted Saad Baig, general manager of a private cinema hall.

He added, "It has proven to be a boon for the Pakistani cinema industry during tough times."

In the recent past, Pakistan released its second Bangladeshi movie, Tofaan, on the silver screen, which is believed to be fruitful for the corporate side of Pakistani cinemas. It has earned INR200 to 250 million in India and BDT350 million in the homeland.

“Despite low business from the first movie, Chairman Eveready Group of Companies, Sataish Anand expressed a wish to bring another Bangla movie to Pakistan, when he shared with Bangladeshi producer, he also expressed consensus over it,” said Ahmed Raza, a film manager.

Following the discussion, Tofaan was presented to the Pakistani audience, and surprisingly, it gave a good response compared to the previous one.

“From a business point of view, it is before time to say whether it will beat the target or not, but it will promote cultural ties between two countries,” he added.

However, the film Tofaan has maximum resembles South Asian movies and also a little touchup of Indian blockbuster Animal and KGF.