Saqib Saleem Fights Industry Gatekeeping for Female-Led Films

Saqib Saleem, a producer and actor, is actively addressing the challenges faced by female-led action thrillers in the film industry. He points to "gatekeeping" by decision-makers as a significant barrier to the proper mounting and release of such films, despite perceived audience interest. Saleem cited his own productions, 'Double XL' and 'Single Salma,' as examples of films that received positive reviews but suffered from limited theatrical releases with inadequate screens and unfavorable show timings.

Saleem’s vision for his production house is to foster an environment where talented individuals, including his sister Huma Qureshi, receive deserved opportunities. He emphasizes the producer's crucial role in ensuring a film reaches the right theaters with appropriate showings. Reflecting on his past as a cricketer, Saleem relates the sport's principles of teamwork and starting anew daily to filmmaking, asserting the importance of believing in oneself and building a dedicated team despite external discouragement.

He also highlighted that producing requires a different mindset than acting, involving comprehensive responsibility for a film's journey to its audience. Saleem is driven by the belief that audiences seek compelling stories and unique experiences, not just formulaic blockbusters. The positive reception of 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' in its second week reinforces his hope that diverse and original films can find their market.