The most anticipated blockbuster, ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’ starring Fawad Khan and Hamza Ali Abbasi, premiered theatrically worldwide to rave reviews.
The Punjabi-language movie, which has one of the largest budgets in Pakistani film history, is a remake of Yunus Malik’s cult classic “Maula Jatt,” which was first released in 1979.
The film centres on the storied rivalry between Noori Natt, the head of a vicious gang, and local hero Maula Jatt, played by Khan and Abbasi, respectively. Bilal Lashari, whose debut film ‘Waar’ smashed box office records in Pakistan, directed the movie. Mahira Khan and Humaima Malick are also featured in the movie.
Critics and viewers alike erupted online, lauding the film’s scope, actors, cinematography, soundtrack, visual effects, and more, and claiming that it has raised the bar for Pakistani cinematic brilliance.
Talk also turned to national pride, Pakistani cinema’s potential, and appeals for the government to increase its support for the artists.
Khan recently spoke on the decision to make a reboot rather than a remake in an interview with Variety Magazine. “The actors that made that film what it was – Sultan Rahi and Mustafa Qureshi – were extremely major veterans of the industry,” Khan was quoted as saying.
“To take their acting as an influence for modern cinema may have been a bit out of context, and all respect to them, but we felt that these were very big shoes to fill, and therefore maybe we should attempt something.”
Prior to the film’s release, Lashari sent out a message to his followers and audiences in which he reflected on the film’s long development process and expressed optimism for its future.
Advertisement— Bilal Lashari (@blashari) October 12, 2022
Here is a round-up of how netizens are reacting to the release:
On how it compares to Bollywood:
#TheLegendOfMaulaJatt is one movie that Bollywood will be jealous of. Even though the Punjabi is thick, the emotion is cuts through like a sharp gandassa.
Advertisement— adeela (@adkhan1979) October 14, 2022
“Almost Shakespearean”
The Legend of Maula Jatt is spectacular. Brilliantly entertaining. It’s not often a film of this scale lives up to expectations. This one exceeds them. Cinematic, theatrical – almost Shakespearean. I want to watch it again. Terrific job all round! ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/v8UEeVuz76
— Haroon Rashid (@iHaroonRashid) October 13, 2022
Expressing irritation at the lack of interest in the arts
Director #WajahatRauf shared his disappointment over cinema owners for not showing #TheLegendOfMaulaJatt in major cinemas of Pakistan.
A potential film which can shatter all the records at the Box office is so far being damaged big time for not releasing to its full potential. pic.twitter.com/8pjQhAgl0F— Lollywood Pictures ???????? (@LollyPictures) October 14, 2022
From an actor to another
The hype is worth every naya paisa. Stellar cast, powerful performance, cinematic brilliance, #TheLegendOfMaulaJatt is the movie all of us were waiting for. Good things come to those who wait and here we are! Congratulations, team @MaulaJattMovie pic.twitter.com/zIsPRN9E9U
— Adnan Siddiqui (@adnanactor) October 12, 2022
Praise for Noori
#TheLegendOfMaulaJatt, a never seen before type of film in Pakistani cinema after a long time. The character of Noori was the standout for me indeed ???????? Credit goes to @blashari and @AmmaraHikmat for creating this masterpiece, great job guys!! ???????? pic.twitter.com/n95MIHU5qr
Advertisement— Ahmad Shahzad ???????? (@iamAhmadshahzad) October 13, 2022
