Actor says audiences expect a true cinematic experience rather than stories that feel like TV dramas
Actor Mishi Khan has sparked debate on social media after criticising the quality of recent Pakistani film releases and questioning why some Eid films appeared to disappear from cinemas shortly after release.
In a video shared on Instagram, Khan revealed that she had planned to watch three Eid releases — Zombied, Psycho and Love Di Suan — but was unable to find screenings for two of them at her local cinema.
“Please spare us with this nonsense ‘support Pakistani cinema’ line,” she wrote in the caption, expressing frustration over the industry’s repeated appeals for audience support despite criticism of film quality.
Speaking in the video, Khan questioned the short theatrical run of some local productions. “Why do these films have to come off so quickly?” she asked. “Why do you make such bad films that they are removed right after Eid?”
The actor argued that cinema audiences expect a larger-than-life experience rather than stories that resemble television dramas.
“We want to see beautiful dances and proper cinematic entertainment, not a basic drama that we can watch on television,” she said. “We pay Rs1,000 for a ticket and end up spending more than Rs3,000 per person once you include popcorn and other expenses.”
Khan added that audiences have spent years supporting local productions but are increasingly frustrated by films that fail to meet expectations. “It has been years and the country is tired of supporting underperforming films,” she remarked.
While critical of recent releases, Khan clarified that she had enjoyed Love Guru, praising its cast and music. “You should make films like we used to see in older movies,” she said.
A few hours after posting the video, Khan shared an update on Instagram Stories, revealing that she had located a screening of Psycho at another cinema and intended to watch it later in the day.
She jokingly added that she hoped she would be able to secure tickets, describing the screening as a potential “full house.”
Her comments quickly gained attention online, with social media users reacting to her criticism and expressing curiosity about her upcoming review of the film.
As of now, Khan has not shared her review of Psycho. However, many followers are waiting to see whether her assessment of the film will reflect her earlier frustration with the state of local cinema or take a more measured tone after watching the movie.
