Movies, popcorn and more: Nueplex complex gets the films rolling

Celebrities, politicians and other guests walk the red carpet at the launch.

KARACHI:

Saman Rehman, a moviegoer, munched away on her popcorn while staring in awe at the huge screen in front of her. “This screen is huge,” she exclaimed, right before the premiere of Bollywood movie Satyagraha at the Nueplex complex.

Rehman was among those who attended the launch of the five-theatre complex on Friday. “I’ve been to other cinemas but never seen such a big screen before,” she told The Express Tribune.

Situated at The Place in Phase VIII of the Defence Housing Authority, Nueplex complex was host to celebrities, sportsmen and even politicians on its first day. Movies playing at the complex included Pacific Rim, Satyagarha and Once Upon a Time Again in Mumbai.

Actor Behroz Sabzwari, who was accompanied by his wife, son Shehroz Sabzwari and daughter-in-law Syra Yousuf, welcomed the launch of the cinemas. “There aren’t many entertainment outlets for the people in Karachi - usually they only end up going to the sea. The trend of cinemas opening up is good,” said the actor.

Another guest Najia Malik loved the overall atmosphere as well as the interior of the cinema, but she was of the opinion that a Pakistani movie should have been premiered at the launch. “Really good local movies are being made at the moment and we need to encourage them,” said Malik.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s leader Waseem Akhtar was also seen walking the red carpet. “I can’t recall the last time I went to the movies. Being in politics hardly gives me time for recreational activities but I managed to show up today on the invite of a friend,” he said while talking to The Express Tribune.

The general manager of operations of Nueplex, Ali Saadat, did not share exactly how big the screens were but said they were the largest in the country. “The Place is a purpose-built cinema complex and ideal for movie buffs.”

Tickets start at Rs500 for 2D movies and Rs600 for 3D movies.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 31^st, 2013.