By Ijaz Ahmad Khan
TORONTO: Producer Salman Butt has stated that the film Psycho delves into a subject never addressed before, portraying the realities of life through a fresh lens. The film features an exceptionally talented ensemble cast that has earned global acclaim for their remarkable acting prowess.
Salman Butt expressed confidence that it would prove to be a super-hit film and captivate audiences worldwide, speaking while addressing a flurry of media queries in a film premier day ceremony held here at Haveli Grill Bar and Banquet Hall.
Addressing the trailer launch ceremony in Toronto, Canada, he remarked that Psycho would resonate deeply with moviegoers. The film breaks away from convention, and its trailer is already gaining appreciation overseas.
Backed by Geo Films, the movie is slated for a grand theatrical release in Pakistan and other countries on Eid-ul-Adha, May 27, 2026. It showcases the artistry of Shaan, Meera, Javed Sheikh, Sonia Hussain, Niyyar Ejaz, and other distinguished performers.
Shaan and Meera will be featured at the Toronto event through special video messages. Shaan Shahid with his real name (Armaghan Shahid) (born 1971), is a renowned Pakistani actor, director, producer, and writer who has appeared in over 500 films since his 1990 debut in Bulandi. A stalwart of Lollywood, he is highly regarded for hits like Waar, Khuda Kay Liye, and Zarrar, bringing modern cinematic techniques to Pakistan. In his message he urged upon the general public, specially the Pakistani community in Canada to extend a helping hand to the success of film Psycho.
Meera also appealed the Canadian based Pakistani community to support the film’s success, as it holds meaningful reflections for them. It is a story of every home, she added. Meera shared that she has always received overwhelming support from film enthusiasts worldwide and expects the same this time. She emphasized that the film mirrors the story of every home and community, serving as a guiding light to overcome psychological struggles.
Meera (Irtiza Rubab), born July 15, 1976, is a prominent Pakistani film actress and producer with a career spanning over 50 projects in Lollywood and Bollywood. Known for films like Inteha and Baaji, she is also known for her work in Nazar (2005). Now Meera show her appearing in the film Psycho, which carried a unique subject.
Psycho, derived from psychopath or psychotic, is an informal and often offensive term for someone perceived as mentally unstable, dangerous, or erratic. It suggests violent, irrational, or highly unpredictable behavior. The word originates from the Greek psyche, meaning mind or soul, and is commonly used to stigmatize or marginalize.
International producer Salman Butt stated on the occasion that Psycho is the story of every household, as individuals navigate depression, anxiety, and stress in various phases of life. In this film, an internationally acclaimed actress has delivered the very essence of her craft. While portraying a character battling such mental challenges, she simultaneously triumphed over them through her vibrant performance. This powerful theme offers audiences a path forward. He affirmed that every essential step was taken for the film without any compromise or haste. Completed over an extensive period of two and a half years, both Shaan Shahid and he have poured their finest performances into it, which audiences are sure to admire. He revealed that Meera’s dedication was so intense that she even sustained a broken arm during filming.
He emphasized that this is a big-budget production where no compromises were made, and every necessary measure was meticulously implemented. The film has been shot across diverse locations in Pakistan. Journalists and social media representatives present on the occasion posed various questions, which he answered with great poise. He extended his gratitude to international journalist Farooq Mirza, ijaz Ahmad Khan, and all the journalists in attendance. He expressed hope that the media fraternity will play a constructive role in ensuring the film becomes a super-hit.
He also thanked program organizer Tahir-A-Rana and the owner of Haveli Grill Restaurant. He commended Tahir-A-Rana for orchestrating an elegant premiere event through his exceptional managerial expertise. He noted that meticulous attention has been given to the film’s songs, screenplay, and locations. The songs, filmed at breathtaking venues, are bound to be loved by the audience. Shaan, Shahid, and Meera, in their messages, thanked all journalists and hoped for their continued support in the film’s success. Meera expressed profound gratitude to director Shaan Shahid and producer Salman Butt for giving her the opportunity to perform such a demanding role. She acknowledged that her character was extremely challenging and said the audience will now judge how well she did justice to it. She appealed to the public to watch the film with their families in cinemas this Eid-ul-Adha, May 27, 2026, and contribute to its success.
In his video message, Shaan highlighted his pivotal role in the film’s success and hoped the media would carry its buzz to the masses. Paying tribute to producer Salman Butt, he said he was given complete creative freedom as director, and every requirement of the film was fulfilled by the producer. He added that seasoned artists like Javed Sheikh, Meera, and others have done complete justice to their roles, and he is confident the film will emerge as a superhit.
He said that Mera is an exceptionally accomplished actress, which is why she personally chose this role. The character is incredibly dynamic, allowing her to showcase her acting caliber to the fullest. Mera is undeniably renowned and masterful, and she has done immense justice to this role. “I am confident audiences will admire her. Shaan is also a monumental name in the film industry, and his remarkable work will certainly be appreciated by viewers. I believe this film will be counted among Pakistan’s super-hit films because extraordinary effort has been invested in every aspect. Whether it was selecting locations tailored to the narrative or crafting the screenplay, the script was given paramount importance so audiences could authentically experience the character’s world in every scene. This ensures viewers can draw value from it, and they will undoubtedly appreciate it.
We made no compromises, whether regarding locations or timelines. Rather than rushing production, this film was completed with immense patience over two and a half years. It also features a talent like Javed Sheikh, and elements of humor have been thoughtfully woven in to offer audiences fresh entertainment. Furthermore, this is truly a family film in every sense. People will surely love it, as it will prove to be an outstanding film. The guidance it offers touches on themes of tolerance, intolerance, and the diverse characters portrayed, which reflect the story of every home. That is why it will appeal to every family. Salman Butt further emphasized to everyone that this is a high-budget film, and extraordinary care has been taken to ensure no aspect is compromised, be it time, screenplay, or location. Shot entirely across various regions of Pakistan, this is undoubtedly a film destined to be called a super-duper hit.
Salman Butt, who is also the producer of this film, noted that his presence in Toronto is significant because of the large Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and other communities residing here. He is confident they will watch the film, and diverse audiences will embrace it because its narrative mirrors the story of every household, which is why it has received such dedicated attention.
He praised renowned journalist Farooq Mirza, stating that Farooq Mirza has stood by him consistently. He also commended program organizer Tahir-A-Rana for hosting the event so beautifully at Haveli Restaurant, where numerous families gathered to listen to him. A large number of journalists were present, including Mr. Ijaz Ahmed Khan of APP and Bureau Chief of the Vigilant USA. He appreciated everyone and underscored that the journalist community holds a crucial role in the film’s success. He requested them to provide strong coverage so families are encouraged to watch it, as the film serves as a guide for our youth and those battling depression, anxiety, and various domestic challenges.
Earlier, producer Salman Butt and journalist Farooq Mirza were honored with floral bouquets. The ceremony was also attended by prominent politician Najam Naqvi, Iqtidar Naqvi, Sham-ul-Huda, Riaz Ahmad, prominent singer Maya, who at the ends presented her good numbers which largely enthralled the sitting spectators.
Renowned columnist and hockey analyst Tahir Rana addressed the audience while representing the Pakistani community abroad.
Speaking at the event, Tahir Rana highlighted that Pakistan, particularly the region of Toba Tek Singh, is known for producing talented individuals. He emphasized that the unveiling of the Pakistani film “Psycho”, in collaboration with Farooq Mirza, President of 4th Pillar and Editor-in-Chief of The Vigilant USA, reflects the true spirit of Pakistani culture.
Rana expressed confidence that the film would receive global recognition, noting that overseas Pakistanis remain deeply connected to their homeland and continue to support local productions. He praised the film’s strong performances and credited producer Salman Butt for assembling a dedicated team that successfully portrayed social realities through cinema.
He further stated that organizing the event under his supervision was an honor and that sharing the stage with prominent figures like Farooq Mirza was a matter of pride. Rana also extended his gratitude to Mirza for promoting Pakistan’s culture on both national and international platforms.
Myssah Khan is a versatile South Asian-Canadian singer and entertainer was the moderator on Stage . She sung beautiful song about Pakistan . She is based in the Greater Toronto Area, widely known by her stage name, the “Canadian Singing Diva.” She is a popular figure in the South Asian diaspora, specializing in Bollywood and Pakistani music, including pop, geet, and ghazals.
Film PSYCHO ‘s Producer Suleman Butt & International Journalist Mr. Farooq Mirza Arrived At Havelly Grill Restaurant & Banquet Mississauga In Canada to conduct media briefing about film . The Svend hosted and Organized by Mr. Akbar Waraich , Mr. Tahir Amin Rana, Faiyaz Hyder ,
Co-host and singer
Canadian Singing Diva
Myssah khan and Ch Liaqat Sahib
The event witnessed a large turnout from the Pakistani community, demonstrating strong support and enthusiasm for Pakistani cinema and cultural representation on the global stage.
The ceremony was also addressed by the President of 4thpillar Farooq Mirza, who in his speech lauded the efforts of Tahir A. Rana and representatives of the print, electronic and social media. He said the Canadian based Pakistanis have always extended a helping hand in such like events.
