Faysal Quraishi fires back at critics over film backlash

Pakistani actor and filmmaker Faysal Quraishi has shared his views on the importance of film festivals, audience reactions and the criticism surrounding his recent film, emphasising that not every project is expected to appeal to everyone.

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Culture Festival in Karachi, Quraishi highlighted how such events provide valuable opportunities for filmmakers, artists and cinema enthusiasts to connect, exchange ideas and explore different aspects of filmmaking.

He explained that film festivals are about much more than screening movies, as they bring together creative professionals from different countries and allow them to showcase their work while interacting with fellow artists.

According to the actor, cinema lovers eagerly wait for these festivals because they offer opportunities to learn about filmmaking, understand creative processes and develop professional connections.

Quraishi noted that discussions between filmmakers are particularly important during the early stages of a project. These interactions help industry professionals exchange ideas, understand how films are developed and explore different approaches to bringing stories to the screen.

He also stressed the importance of such events for aspiring filmmakers, saying they can encourage young people to explore careers in cinema and understand the different opportunities available in the industry.

The actor believes that watching international filmmakers present their work can help newcomers discover fresh perspectives and learn how to improve their own creative abilities.

Discussing the response to his film following its cinema release and subsequent screening at the World Culture Festival, Quraishi said that several viewers had appreciated the project despite the criticism it attracted on social media.

He acknowledged that films naturally receive mixed reactions because audiences have different tastes, expectations and opinions about storytelling.

Explaining his perspective, he pointed out that even internationally recognised films do not always satisfy every viewer. He referred to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey, suggesting that people can leave even a major cinematic production with completely different opinions about what they have watched.

Quraishi added that his own film could also have weaknesses, and he did not consider negative feedback unusual or unexpected.

He maintained that filmmakers should understand that receiving criticism is part of working in the entertainment industry, as it is impossible to create something that everyone will appreciate.

The actor also addressed the role of social media in shaping public conversations around films. He said that digital platforms have given people the freedom to express their opinions, allowing viewers to share both positive feedback and criticism directly.

Quraishi made it clear that he welcomed different perspectives and had no objection to people expressing disappointment with his work.

He explained that while some viewers praised the film, others were not impressed, and he considered both reactions a normal part of audience engagement.

Addressing a video he had previously shared, which became a topic of discussion online, the filmmaker clarified that his remarks were not aimed at any particular person.

Instead, he explained that the video was his response to a message he had received, rather than an attempt to target or confront an individual.

Faysal Quraishi is among Pakistan’s prominent television and film personalities. He rose to fame after portraying Boota in the popular television series Boota from Toba Tek Singh in 1999.

Throughout his career, he has appeared in more than 200 projects and received over 20 nationally recognised awards. Alongside acting, he has also worked as a television host and producer.

He hosted Muskurati Morning with Faisal Qureshi from 2010 to 2014 before presenting Salam Zindagi between 2016 and 2019. He made his film acting debut in 1992 and later entered production through Connect Studios in 2017. He also owns Faysal Quraishi Films.

His latest comments highlight the importance of constructive criticism, creative collaboration and opportunities for emerging filmmakers in Pakistan’s evolving entertainment industry.