Kathmandu, May 16 -- Nepali cinema today exists in a striking duality. At one end, there are films that become cultural phenomena and nationwide obsessions. Reviews flood among the audience with packed cinema halls and week-long screenings. At the other end are the films that disappear within days of their release.

Board Member of Film Development Board, Nepal, Ganesh Prasad Subedi says, "Everyone wants to make a good film. What ultimately determines its appeal is how truthfully it reflects life."

"Cinema is art and art comes from life," he adds. "Audience preferences may differ, but cinema that drifts too far away from reality can struggle to resonate with viewers."

Representation of socioeconomic and political realities can also dete...