With major Pakistani productions few and far in between, screening of Indian movies in Pakistan have become a temporary guardian angel for the local cinema industry, Chairman Central Board of Film Censors (CBFC) said on Thursday.
“The decision to show Indian movie is only a temporary one and is taken to keep the cinemas functioning across the country while satisfactory steps are taken for the revival of local film industry,” said Barrister Shahnawaz Noon while talking to APP.
Pakistan’s film industry commonly known as “Lollywood” has been on a constant downward slide for the last 12 years, which has not only reduced the entertainment opportunities for movie lovers in the country but also caused losses to those associated with the profession.
Blaming previous government for neglecting the film industry, Noon said that the present government took all stakeholders on board and announced funds for various projects to revive and make it a competitive industry.
Besides funds for artists, technicians and other persons associated with film production, the government has approved the project of National Film Academy and Film Laboratory, establishment of four cinema houses in the federal capital, scholarships for studying subjects regarding film-making and reduction in additional taxes, he added.
The CBFC Chairman further said that the board comprising of old members was dissolved and new members were appointed to bring young talent forward, which will introduce new ideas for the benefit of the film industry in Pakistan.
He was of the view that Indian movies were screened only on temporary basis and the establishment of a film laboratory and funds announced by Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani would help improve the standard of Lollywood films within six months.
Commenting on Pakistani artists working in Indian movies, he said “apart from filmmakers, it is also the responsibility of our artists to make every effort for the revival of their own industry instead of leaving it.”