In light of new measures taken by the Punjab government for the early closure of shopping malls and cinemas, actor Fahad Mustafa wrote an open letter to the administration, requesting an easing of restrictions on theatres to give people time to watch films.

The actor asked Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb to let moviegoers who are busy in the day to have access to screenings later in the evening. “I would like to humbly request your consideration regarding the current closing time of malls and cinemas,” wrote the actor.

Mustafa mentioned that since many cinemas in the province are located inside malls, which are to now close at 8:00pm under austerity measures in view of the global fuel crisis triggered by the ongoing Middle East conflict, show schedules are shortened.

“The early closure is affecting recently released films that are relying on this period to reach audiences,” he said. The actor requested an extension in the timing, adding that it would lead to an increase in ticket sales, support employment across the exhibition and hospitality sectors, and provide greater access and convenience for audiences.

While Mustafa appreciated the Punjab government’s support of the film industry with initiatives like Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s Film City plan for Lahore, he requested that the administration also be supportive of the creative sector by giving them a small relaxation in cinema timings.

Signing off the letter, the actor wrote, “A small relaxation in opening hours would be deeply appreciated by filmmakers, exhibitors, and cinemagoers alike.”

Mustafa is currently promoting his film Zombeid, in which he stars alongside Mehwish Hayat. The first-ever Pakistani zombie thriller, Zombeid premiered this Eidul Azha and is showing in theatres across the nation.

The film was released alongside two other movies this Eid, competing for screen space limited by the restriction in timings that were temporarily relaxed for the holidays.