It seems like Pakistani cinema, and Pakistani film directors, have hit kind of a snag, after reaching a really high point, last year. There aren’t any movies coming out, and the ones that are, aren’t that great. With films opening to empty cinemas, or not doing well at all at the box office,  the situation is a bit of a sticky one for Lollywood, at the moment. However, directors need to realize that we need to start making different kinds of films, and not just different films.

1. The topic that everyone says is Pakistan’s biggest problem: Illiteracy

Ke jub tak nahi parhay ga Pakistan, tau aagey kese barhay ga Pakistan? I’ve always wondered  why they made such a big deal about education in the country, because all the people I was surrounded with, at the point, were all educated, well-to-do, and typical stiff upper-lip type log. But now that I see more and more of the bitter and harsh reality that is our society, I realize that I’m part of possibly a chunk of people that don’t even comprise 2%of the total population, and the rest doesn’t have much access to further education.

2. Female infanticide in Pakistan

Yep. This is still a thing. With fetuses being found in gutters and the mouths of dogs, it is very much a thing.

3.  The horrible business of child prostitution

This has to be one of the least talked about topics in our society, on the whole. While Bol touched upon it, it has never been discussed in depth.

4. What it’s like being old in Pakistan

Of stories coming from old-age homes, and how the elderly are made to being treated like actual shit by their own kids (you know it happens far too often than it actually should).

5. Men being forced to conform to a very limited type of masculinity

It happens, okay? And unfortunately, happens a lot. And we need to talk about it. EM-ER-GEN-CY

6. Breakups, instead of love stories

No getting back together, no reconciliation, just two people dealing with a breakup. Because I swear, our awaam needs it.

7. Siblings and all the crazy fun they do together

Good sibling-based humor. That’s all I’m asking for.

8. Dil Dhadakne Do types

Ah, an ensemble cast, family relationships and their ups and downs. Good music. That’s all you need for a good film.

9. A bunch of friends chilling

No stereotypes, no exaggerations, just a bunch of people chilling.

10. Real issues that thousands of Pakistanis actually face

Vaani, Satti, Jahaiz, honor killing, acid attacks are just some of the topics that need to be discussed time and time again in mainstream media. Because clearly, the conversations that we’re having around these topics, at this point, aren’t really making much of an issue. These topics should also possibly, preferably include single mothers, rape victims, and women who have to earn a living for themselves, among a plethora of other topics.

11. What’s it actually like to live in Pakistan as a minority

12. Some epic ‘Game of Thrones’ style stuff

Who wouldn’t watch that?

13. Inspirational Pakistanis who are helping make Pakistan a better place for us all

Tbh, just an actual good romance would also do, too

A good ol’ boy-meets-girl story with a little drama and a lot of love. Yes please.

What other themes would you want to see movies made around? Let us know in the comments below.

Cover image via: dawn.com