Someone Has to Take the Risk: Fahad Mustafa on Producing His Own Films and the Future of Pakistani Cinema

Fahad Mustafa

Popular actor and producer Fahad Mustafa recently opened up about his upcoming projects and the challenges facing Pakistan’s film industry. In an exclusive interview, Fahad revealed that he is currently working on two new films, one of which will be released in 2026, followed by the second in 2027. Interestingly, this marks the first time in many years that he is producing a film featuring himself in a lead role.

I’m Making a Film Because No One Else Is

During the conversation, Fahad was asked about a trend that has become increasingly common in the Pakistani entertainment industry—actors producing films for themselves. The host mentioned how Humayun Saeed cast himself in his upcoming movie Love Guru and questioned whether Fahad was doing the same.

Fahad responded candidly, clarifying his intentions:
Whoever wants to make a film should make it themselves. I have never made a film for myself until now. I’m doing it for the first time and only because no one else is doing it.

He emphasized that the lack of film production in the industry has forced actors like himself and Humayun Saeed to take matters into their own hands. Fahad’s decision to step into the role of a producer and actor is not about self-promotion—it’s about keeping the film industry alive in a time of uncertainty.

Which Other Actor Would You Ban from Cinemas?

In a pointed moment during the interview, Fahad asked rhetorically:
So, which other actor is there at this time that you would ban from cinemas?
His comment highlights the limited pool of active film actors currently working in the industry, suggesting that if actors like himself and Humayun Saeed don’t take the initiative, the cinema scene in Pakistan risks further decline.

Risk and Revival: The Reality of the Film Business

When the host asked why more people aren’t producing films, Fahad was blunt in his response:
Because it’s a risk.
But instead of backing away, Fahad is choosing to embrace that risk.
One has to take a risk, he said. Humayun Saeed and I are taking this risk, and we hope it encourages others to do the same.

His statement reflects the real challenges filmmakers face in Pakistan today. With high production costs, limited screens, and inconsistent box office results, investing in film is not for the faint-hearted. Yet, Fahad believes that without risk, there is no growth—and without growth, the industry may stagnate.

A Commitment to Quality and Storytelling

Though he didn’t reveal many plot details about his upcoming films, Fahad hinted that these projects are being developed with great care and with a focus on storytelling and cinematic quality. He said he’s committed to creating films that resonate with the audience, adding that the goal is not just commercial success but also reviving public interest in Pakistani cinema.

Fahad’s production house has previously backed several hit projects, and fans are hopeful that his upcoming ventures will bring fresh narratives and strong performances to the big screen. With him stepping back into the limelight after a long gap, expectations are understandably high.

The Bigger Picture: A Call to Action

Fahad’s comments go beyond personal ambition. They serve as a call to action for the industry—a plea for producers, directors, writers, and actors to come together and rebuild what has been lost. In an era dominated by digital content and international streaming services, local cinema needs champions, and Fahad Mustafa is stepping up.

His decision to not only act but also finance and produce his own films speaks volumes about his dedication to the art and the industry. It’s not about ego—it’s about sustaining a dream shared by countless artists, technicians, and cinema-goers across Pakistan.

As Fahad Mustafa embarks on this new chapter in his career, the industry watches closely. His courage to invest in cinema during challenging times is a beacon of hope for many. If successful, his efforts could inspire a new wave of film production in Pakistan, offering diverse stories, new talent, and a brighter future for the big screen.