Karachi gears up for three new cinema houses

Karachi' cinema landscape is set for a boost, with three new single-screen picture houses are expected to open, as part of an initiative aimed at reviving film culture and expanding entertainment options for the audiences. The projects are currently are currently under way in the posh Defence Housing Authority (DHA) with two of them near completion, said Nadeem Jafri, adding that the third is under construction as part of a joint venture between the DHA and his company, NJE. "I am looking forward to opening not just one but two cinemas, while the third is already being built," Jafri said, speaking to The Express Tribune. He described the initiative as a step towards strengthening the city's cultural and entertainment landscape. Jafri said the flagship Innovesta Auditorium Theatre Cinema has been designed as a multi-purpose facility, offering more than just film screening. "This is not just a cinema. It is an auditorium and a pre-club theatre where people can also hold corporate events and functions," he explained. "We want to provide a secure and high-quality environment for the public," he continued, adding that another facility has been developed as a premium 'royal theatre', featuring 24 recliner seats and advanced Dolby Atmos audio. "Sound and acoustics have always been my passion. I've turned that into something practical through these projects," , Jafri a prominent singer and artist himself, noted. Film culture revival Jafri stressed that the initiative is part of a broader effort to revive film culture in Karachi, which he believes is essential for societal growth. "This is actually a film cultural revival," he said. "Nations progress when they invest in culture, and cinema plays a key role in education and awareness." He added that in an era dominated by screens, cinemas can help guide audiences towards meaningful content. "Films help people learn, think and understand the world better. We need to create sp aces for that," he said. According to Jafri, the project will also support emerging filmmakers, actors and distributors, offering them opportunities to showcase their work. "Encouraging new talent is part of our vision. We want to bring fresh voices into the industry," he said. He believes improved venues will lead to better content and stronger audience engagement. "When facilities improve, motivation increases and that reflects in the quality of work," he added. While ticket prices have yet to be finalised, Jafri said affordability will be a priority to attract wider audiences. "To promote cinema, you have to start from the grassroots. We will try to keep it accessible," he said, adding that premieres and inaugurations are expected soon. Calling it a long-held dream, Jafri expressed optimism that these developments will mark a new chapter for Karachi's cinema industry.