Faysal Quraishi responds to 'Mango Jutt' criticism

Actor says social media feedback is part of the process

KARACHI:

Film festivals are not just about watching movies; they also provide filmmakers, artists and enthusiasts an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas and learn about the process of filmmaking.

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Culture Festival, Pakistani filmmaker said that film enthusiasts look forward to such festivals every year, as they offer more than just screenings. Filmmakers from different countries also attend to represent their work, making the event an opportunity for meaningful interaction and discussion.

He said that such gatherings allow filmmakers to understand how projects are initiated and how the filmmaking process begins. The initial discussions and exchange of ideas are particularly important for those working in the industry.

"These festivals also inspire young people. If they want to pursue filmmaking, they get to see different pathways and understand how they can move forward and create better work," he said.

Asked about the audience response after his film was screened at the cinema and later at the World Culture Festival, as well as the criticism it received on social media following its release, the filmmaker said that many viewers had enjoyed the film.

"Not every film is going to be liked by everyone. Even after watching a film like The Odyssey, some people come out saying, 'What did I just watch? What kind of film was that?' So, our film can also have shortcomings. There is nothing unusual about someone not liking it," he said.

Faysal Quraishi is one of Pakistan's highest-paid actors. He is the recipient of more than 20 nationally recognised awards. He first gained recognition for playing the leading role of Boota in the television series Boota from Toba Tek Singh (1999) and has been a part of more than 200 projects. Quraishi hosted a morning show called Muskurati Morning with Faisal Qureshi from 2010 to 2014. From 2016 to 2019, he hosted the morning show Salam Zindagi. He made his film acting debut in 1992. He became a producer in 2017 with the production house Connect Studios, and owns a film production house named Faysal Quraishi Films.

He added that social media had given everyone a platform to express their opinions, and he was open to both appreciation and criticism.

"Some people praised the film, while others did not like it. That's fine. It is good that people are sharing their feedback," he said.

Clarifying his response to the criticism circulating online, he said that the video he had shared was not directed at any particular individual. Rather, it was a response to a message that had reached him.