From 'Aasman Bolay Ga' to 'Daadal', 2023 offers a complete palette for cinema-goers

KARACHI:

A brand new year marks the beginning of new resolutions, opportunities, exciting new Netflix shows to binge-watch and of course—the release of many long-awaited local films in theatres. Following the success of Bilal Lashari's directorial blockbuster The Legend of Maula Jatt, it appears that 2023's offerings will be under even more pressure to stand out and exceed people's expectations.

Luckily, with the variety of films coming out this year, Pakistani cinema is in for a roll of entertainment, old-school rom-com, and action-packed thrillers. From Babylicious to Money Back Guarantee, let's take a look at the finest offerings touted for release this year.

1. Aasman Bolay Ga

Shoaib Mansoor is back with another film this year, however, instead of treading towards another social-issue-based project, this time the director is focusing on creating an intriguing love story. What was earlier touted to be a documentary on the Operation Swift Retort of 2019, where the Pakistani military managed to shoot down an Indian fighter jet and capture pilot Abhinandan will now have a love angle between an Indian Journalist (Maya Ali) and a Squadron Leader (Emmad Irfani).

Back in July 2022, Irfani expressed his excitement over the prospect of working with Mansoor. "I'm really excited and looking forward to working with someone of the stature of Shoaib sir. To me, it is an opportunity of a lifetime as he is a colossus when it comes to modern Pakistan cinema," the Jalan actor told The Express Tribune.

In December 2022, the film released its first poster which got a mixed reaction from the audience as many started comparing its storyline to Veer Zara. Although this unexpected reaction did not match the director's enthusiasm, it's still too early to call a verdict before the film's release.

2. Daadal

This is for crime-thriller genre lovers! Written and directed by Abu Aleeha, Daadal will revolve around a female boxer from Lyari who becomes a contract killer in order to avenge her sister's unjust treatment.

Back in September 2022, Aleeha took to Instagram to share the first look at his upcoming anticipated nail-biter project. The picture revealed Sonya Hussyn as the female lead, holding her hands in a punching pose, with a fierce look on her face, with boxing gloves and her hair tied in rowdy box braids. "I am not a mere resistance to fear, I am the courage life has ever imagined, I am Haya Baloch," read the caption.

Calling it a "gangster crime thriller," Aleeha added that the film will release in theatres worldwide on Eid ul Fitr 2023. Produced by Neha Laaj and Asif Malik, the project will also star Rizwan Ali Jafri, Maira Khan, Adnan Shah Tipu and Shamoon Abbasi in pivotal roles.

3. Money Back Guarantee

Money Back Guarantee might be the most publicised film out of the entire list. Its popularity's credit just doesn't go to the marketing team, but also to the star-studded cast which has drawn all its attention. Directed by none other than Faisal Qureshi, the film stars Fawad Khan, Gohar Rasheed, Wasim Akram, Mikaal Zulfikar Ayesha Omar, and Javed Sheikh!

Keeping most of the important details under wraps, according to Gulf News, Akram essays the role of a nemesis, while a bank robbery takes place. The publication also notes that the film won't focus much on romantic relationships between the female and male characters, which might be a relief to some!

In the end, the teaser trailer which was launched in September, stayed true to deliver an action-packed thriller film—with fast-paced luxury cars, masked heists and large safes full of cash. The film is set to release in theatres worldwide on April 21, 2023.

4. Rawalpindi Express

Cricket fans were in for an amazing 2023, waiting for their favourite sportsman, Shoaib Akhtar's biopic to be released and celebrated on an international scale. However, recently Umair Jaswal, announced that he is no longer essaying celebrated bowler Akhtar in Rawalpindi Express.

Taking to Instagram, the Khayaal crooner wished his former colleagues the best. "Due to creative and personal reasons, I have decided to step away from the Shoaib Akhtar biopic project, Rawalpindi Express. I will no longer be associated with any media or news related to this project. Wishing everyone involved all the best," penned Jaswal.

Directed by Muhammad Faraz Qaiser, a Dubai-based filmmaker, Akhtar's biopic was touted to be the first international film centred on a Pakistani sports figure. The film was set to release on November 16, 2023, but now with the change of the leading cast, the project might be pushed ahead.

5. Babylicious

The ending of 2022 came with a wholesome surprise as the former celebrity couple Syra Yousuf and Shahroz Sabzwari announced the release of their latest film, Babylicious. “Twelve years in the making, the release of this old-school romance on Valentine's Day is the perfect way to swoon over our hearts,” they shared.

The Essa Khan directorial promises a beautiful escape from reality into an old-fashioned affair between two lovebirds, full of dreamy music and cheesy punchlines. Although most of the details about the film are still hush-hush, fans are already excited to see their favourite ex-couple back together for a project.

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