We recently had the privilege of interviewing a US-based Pakistani who has excelled in multiple fields, bringing pride to his homeland. Dr. Mashood Qadri, a highly esteemed kidney specialist practicing in the US for three decades, has consistently appeared on the country’s Top Physicians’ lists and has received numerous national and local awards for his contributions to medicine. Beyond his distinguished medical career, Dr. Qadri has actively contributed to Pakistan’s media industry for over a decade and is an internationally recognized, award-winning screenwriter. He is best known for his acclaimed screenplay in Saawan, which was nominated by Pakistan’s Oscar Committee in 2017 under the Foreign Film category, and Riyasat Mein Riyasat, a satirical telefilm that won Best Screenplay and Best Story at the Shaan-e-Awadh International Film Award 2016 and was also nominated at the 4th Indian Cine Film Festival the same year. The telefilm aired multiple times on television. Adding yet another dimension to his talents, Dr. Qadri is also a fine artist, regularly showcasing his paintings and donating the proceeds to various charities.
Now, his latest cinematic venture, the Pakistani film Qulfee, which he has written and produced, is set for release this Eid-ul-Fitr. At a time when Pakistan’s film industry faces declining productions and cinema closures, Dr. Qadri’s efforts stand out as a beacon of hope. We sat down with him to discuss his creative journey, the challenges facing Pakistan’s film industry, and his expectations for Qulfee.

Q: How do you find time for scriptwriting alongside your busy career as a physician in the USA? What drives you?
A: You should ask my wife because she is the one who sacrifices what would otherwise be our shared downtime. While I am deeply passionate about my work as a physician, writing is in my blood. My friends have always encouraged me to write on a larger scale, which led me to start with children’s shows, followed by dramas, and then films like Riyasat Mein Riyasat and Saawan. Writing is a one-way street for me – once I step into it, there’s no turning back.

Q: What challenges does Pakistan’s film industry currently face, and why do our films struggle at the box office?
A: Our film industry is still evolving, and success will come through trial and error – provided we learn from our mistakes. The quality of our films and production value is improving, but a box office hit depends on multiple factors: luck, the limited number of available cinema screens, release timing, and competition from higher-budget films.

The key question is: What unique content are we offering audiences in today’s highly competitive digital media landscape?

Filmmaking is like science – it requires innovation, experimentation within the realm of imagination, and an intellectual challenge to relate stories to life’s vibrant colors, infused with emotions and real-world issues. We must focus on original ideas that reflect current social themes to truly resonate with audiences.

Q: How is digital media affecting today’s film industry?
A: Digital media has turned the One Globe concept into reality. Audiences today are incredibly savvy and have access to films from around the world, whether they are major box office hits or indie productions. To succeed, filmmakers need to think outside the box and cater to modern, discerning viewers.

Q: Given these challenges, how can investors generate revenue from films?
A: Generating revenue from films is challenging, especially with skyrocketing cinema ticket prices. If a family decides to watch a film, they could end up spending anywhere between Rs. 2,500 to 5,000 or more – an amount that’s simply unaffordable for many. This automatically limits the audience. Those who can afford it expect top-tier entertainment – lavish productions, engaging stories, high-quality music, and stunning visuals.

With only around 54 cinemas left in the country, and revenue-sharing models where distributors and exhibitors take 60-70% of earnings, investors are left with just 30%. If Pakistan’s cinema industry is to thrive, we must either build more theaters or make ticket prices more affordable to encourage a larger audience base and increase profitability.

Q: What inspired you to write Qulfee?
A: My goal was to connect with the everyday Pakistani viewer – allow them to deeply relate to the story, experience the emotions of the characters, and become immersed in the romance, with all its sweetness and trials. Filmmaking is an intellectual pursuit, and as writers, we must subtly address societal issues in a way that resonates with audiences. The key to a film’s success lies in its ability to evoke community nostalgia and earn the trust of viewers.

Q: Qulfee is your brainchild. Do you take complete ownership of it?
A: While Qulfee is my brainchild, I don’t take sole credit for it. Filmmaking is a team effort, and strong teamwork with professional yet cordial relationships is crucial for success.

Q: What makes Qulfee stand out?
A: Qulfee has several unique elements. It boasts a vibrant ensemble cast spanning multiple generations. The story is filled with unpredictable twists and has been filmed at over 90 locations across Pakistan, including Karachi, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the stunning northern valleys.

With four cinematographers contributing to the project, the visuals are breathtaking. The film’s music is top-notch, featuring songs by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Hamid Ali Khan, with music direction by Wali Hamid Ali Khan.

Q: There has been some criticism regarding the cast, especially Shehroz Sabzwari. Why was he chosen as the lead?
A: Shehroz’s character fits him perfectly. As audiences watch the layers of his character unfold, they will appreciate the decision. I strongly believe Qulfee will open new doors for him. As for the rest of the cast, we have industry veterans like Munawar Saeed, Javed Sheikh, and Babar Ali, alongside younger talents like Saeeda Imtiaz, Wali Hamid Ali Khan, and Mariam Ansari. Each actor has delivered an exceptional performance.

Q: Why is there no single director credited for the film?
A: Qulfee didn’t have a single director throughout. Initially, Saleem Karim directed until July 2023, after which he moved to Dubai. Abdullah Badini then stepped in and, along with the late Asad Zedi, helped complete the film.

Q: Why did Qulfee take so long to complete?
A: COVID-19 delayed our timelines significantly. Even after we resumed, I wasn’t satisfied with some scenes, so we had to reshoot and re-edit. Saleem’s departure also caused delays. Eventually, in November 2023, Abdullah Badini and Asad Zedi took over and revamped the film. Our executive producer, Muhammad Faraz, played a key role in post-production, managing ADR, VFX, and distribution contracts. We finally completed the film in November 2024 and were advised to release it on Eid-ul-Fitr.

Q: What is Qulfee’s genre, and why is it ideal for an Eid release?
A: Qulfee is a comedy-drama-action film – a commercial, big-budget production with a star-studded cast. It revolves around friendship, trust, and resilience, blending action, romance, humor, and emotions. With stunning cinematography, catchy music, and a gripping storyline, Qulfee is the perfect Eid entertainer!