KATHMANDU: Nepali cinemas are currently without a single domestic release, as a string of box office failures has left producers reluctant to bring new films to theaters.
At present, audiences can choose from nine films screening in theatres across the country, but all of them are foreign productions. No Nepali-language film is currently on release.
Moviegoers will have to wait until July 17, when the Nepali film Gauthali is scheduled to hit theaters.
Seasonal lull
The months of Asar and Shrawan have traditionally been considered a slow period for Nepali film releases. Historical release patterns show that cinemas have often gone without Nepali films during the monsoon season.
Producers generally avoid releasing films during this period, citing reduced audience turnout caused by the rainy season.
The ongoing FIFA World Cup has also drawn significant public attention, making the current period even less attractive for film releases.
Box office concerns
By July this year, around a dozen Nepali films had been released. However, all but one failed to perform well at the box office.
Even leading actors with strong commercial appeal have struggled to attract audiences, with several high-profile releases underperforming.
Last year’s release calendar had been disrupted by the Gen-Z movement and elections, leading many to expect more films to be released during this year’s monsoon season.
However, following a series of commercial failures, producers appear to be waiting for a more favorable release window, with concerns over poor box office performance influencing their decisions.
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