Can Punjab’s Film City bring Lahore back to the global cinema map?

Lahore once stood as the beating heart of Pakistan’s film industry, where studios buzzed with activity, cinema halls attracted enthusiastic audiences, and film songs became part of everyday life. Now, as Punjab prepares to establish Pakistan’s first modern Film City, a bigger question emerges: can this ambitious project revive the industry’s fading glory and put Lahore back on the global cinema map?

Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision, the Punjab Film Authority is working towards a new cinematic future, with the Film City’s inauguration announced for December 15. The initiative promises more than modern studios; it offers an opportunity to rebuild Pakistan’s filmmaking ecosystem, create jobs and introduce the country’s stories to international audiences.

More Than Studios: Building a Complete Film Industry

The proposed Film City aims to bring several essential components of filmmaking under one roof, including a Film and Music School, Film Museum, Film Trading House, post-production facilities, modern studios and a large convention centre.

If implemented effectively, the project could address longstanding challenges faced by local filmmakers, particularly limited access to advanced equipment, professional training and production facilities.

Another major proposal is a rebate policy designed to encourage investment in filmmaking. Under the approved framework, Punjabi films produced in Punjab would be eligible for a 35 per cent rebate, while Urdu films could qualify for a 20 per cent rebate.

The policy could reduce production costs and give filmmakers greater financial confidence to pursue ambitious projects. However, its success will depend on transparent procedures, timely payments and effective implementation.

Proposed progress towards a royalty law could also strengthen the industry by protecting creators’ rights and ensuring filmmakers receive a fair share of the revenue generated by their work.

Can Young Filmmakers Compete With the World?

Infrastructure alone cannot create a successful film industry. Talent, storytelling and technical expertise remain equally important.

Plans to train young filmmakers through international experts could help develop skills in cinematography, sound design, editing, visual effects, characterisation and film marketing.

With access to modern facilities and professional guidance, emerging Pakistani filmmakers could explore new genres, experiment with fresh ideas and tell stories rooted in the country’s languages, traditions and contemporary realities.

The real challenge will be creating an environment where creativity, originality and artistic independence can thrive beyond the initial excitement surrounding the project.

Punjab’s Next Big Opportunity: Film Tourism

Punjab’s historic architecture, ancient urban centres, Sufi traditions, folk music, cultural festivals and rural landscapes offer attractive possibilities for international film productions.

The provincial government has set a target of transforming Punjab into an internationally competitive screen-tourism destination within five years.

A proposed online, one-window system for selecting filming locations could simplify permissions and reduce administrative delays. If supported by professional coordination, this could attract foreign productions while creating opportunities for hotels, transport providers, event organisers and local businesses.

Film tourism could also introduce Punjab’s heritage and cultural identity to audiences around the world.

Will Cinema Return to Ordinary Pakistanis?

A film industry cannot survive on production facilities alone. It needs audiences.

Plans to restore traditional cinema halls, introduce solar energy systems and improve online ticket booking could help make cinema-going more accessible and revive the connection between filmmakers and viewers.

The proposed budget of more than Rs589 million for the Punjab Film Authority in the 2026–27 financial year reflects the institutional commitment behind the initiative.

Ultimately, however, announcements will not determine the project’s success. Transparent implementation, sustained funding, private-sector participation, affordable cinema tickets and opportunities for new talent will matter far more.

Punjab’s Film City could become a turning point for Pakistani cinema. But the real measure of success will be whether it produces compelling films, supports creative talent and brings audiences back to cinemas—not simply whether it builds impressive studios.**