Saqib Malik’s directorial debut “Baaji”, after a successful theatrical run, gears up to return to cinemas on December 6. We at Pakistani Cinema talked to the director to find out more about this re-release.
“We had numerous requests for a re-release of the film and since it’s the festive season (December), without any strong local fare, we thought it would be the perfect time to bring Baaji back to audiences again.”
The film’s music has received massive success and reviews as well as word of mouth has made the film a commercial hit. Also since it’s release film has been part of the official selections of three international festivals: Mosaic International South Asian film festival in Toronto, DC South Asian film festival in Washington DC and Vancouver International South Asian film festival. Baaji also won the ‘Grand Jury Award’ at the Mosaic International South Asian film festival, along with the award for ‘Best Supporting Actor’ for Nayyer Ejaz. According to Saqib Malik, “The film played to packed houses at all the festivals and exclusive international showings. Now we are hoping audiences will get to watch Baaji again on the big screen, where it really lives larger than life.”
Regarding the promotional strategy for this re-release, Saqib shares that they “are planning on releasing a couple of scenes edited out of the movie on social media as well as the complete version of the song ‘Gangster Guriya’. The full version of ‘Badlaan’ has already been released and it features Zeb Bangash along with clips from the film.”
Although it’s a re-release, the distribution team is hoping to get the film a wide release. Saqib, on being asked about the allocation of screens for re-release, shared that “Cinepax is releasing it across the country and we are in the process of getting other major chains on board as well. We will have good shows at premium timings. The schedule will be out next weekend.”
The Meera Jee and Amna Ilyas starrer sizzled at the box office in the summer and it’s coming back to turn up the heat this December. Those who missed the film the first time around and those who want to watch it for the second, third, fourth or fifth time on the big screen, this is your chance.
