Category: Feature Length Films

A review on Pakistani Suspense – Action feature length film, The Killer (2017). The Production House is Haji Ali Sher Productions.

 

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by M. Shahzad Haider
• Photography by Rizwan Ahmed and Jamshaid Iqbal (Still)
• Written by Saleem Murad
• Edited by Kawish Javaid
• Produced by Haji Abdul Majeed and Haji Abdul Gafoor

 

 

 

 

+ Note

The Killer’s fight choreographer is Sher Khan. Its songs are sung by Naseebo Lal, Saima Jahan, Shafaq Ali, Kiran Taranum & Asad Islam. The music is designed by Imran Farooqi and Lyrics by Khalid Malik & Altaf Bajwa. Other crew members are the production head is Khadim Hussain, asst. directed by Gullam Hussain & Asif Rahman and make-up & hair styling by Asif Shah.

Shafqat Cheema is the lead hero who can be seen in different disguises throughout the film.

The Killer happens to be the worst film I have ever watched.

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Shafqat Cheema as Kabeer
2. N/A as Haider
3. Nayyar Ejaz as Micheal
4. N/A as Nawab

 

 

 

+ Plot

It is about a find an unknown serial killer who has already murdered many victims. The police is given 72 hours to track him down.

 

 

 

 

+ High Points

i – Two known faces that is Shafqat Cheema and Nayyar Ejaz are in the film.

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – This film is the ugliest sight of ‘C’ grade Lollywood film making.

ii – I managed to watch this film properly till 30 minutes… in three days on a friend’s request/dare. The rest of the film was watched by skipping the scenes, especially the songs.

iii – Let’s say that The Killer is a clear sign that humanity’s doomsday is nigh.

iv – The film editing, the songs, the action scenes are just out of this world. Somewhere like in a ‘Black hole’.

v – If Shafqat Cheema is in a lead role, you know well where this film is heading to.

vi – After watching one-fourth of this film, I started to have suicidal thoughts.

 

 

 

+ Overall

The Killer is the worst of the worst… it’s horrible and unwatchable!

 

 

 

Rate: 0 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani drama feature length film, Verna (2017). The Production House is Shoman Productions while its Distributor is Hum Films.

 

 

+ Crew

• Music, Written, Directed & Produced by Shoaib Mansoor
• Cinematography by Salman Razzaq and Khizer Idrees
• Edited by Zohaib Mansoor
• Production Design by Faiza Shah
• Co-Music by Zebunnisa Bangash and Haroon Shahid

 

 

 

+ Note

Verna is a rape-revenge film. This is Shoaib Mansoor’s 3^rd feature film as director. The costumes designing is been done by Zayan and makeup & hair styling by Maram Abroo.

A similar case occurred in real life here in Karachi last year where someone posted on Facebook regarding an unfortunate family who were forced to choose between their daughter and daughter-in-law to give up to two dark Pajero’s men. Whether or not, this incident was true but the film’s dark tone made me recall it immediately.

It is very unfortunate to tell you that I as audience was listening to continuous laughter and giggles by some men sitting in the same cinema hall while watching the abduction and rape scene. The tension how the family faces in her absence was shocking and dismay to most but really hilarious and amusing to people like these men in the hall. Their non-serious attitude made me realize how much illiterate and shameless we people are how easily we believe that rapes do not occur or rarely committed in our nation. These men were laughing as though it was a black comedy that we were watching. I am sorry but I didn’t see the joke between the lines. It is really disgraceful that we have these kinds of people in our society. How ignorant that they are.

For those who view rape as real and understands well that it does happens in our nation too, then only you would watch Verna as horror film rather than just a drama.

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Mahira Khan as Sara
2. Haroon Shahid as Aami
3. Zarrar Khan as Sultan
4. Naimal Khawar as Mahgul
5. Rasheed Naz as Khanzada

 

  

 

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+ Supportive Cast

1. Salman Shaukat as Jamil
2. Malik Ata Muhammad Khan as Raees
3. Shahid Mir as Judge
4. Iram Rehman as Jamil
5. MNA Khawaja as Shehzad Mir
6. Shahnaz Aftab as N/A

 

 

 

  

+ Plot

A happy life is shattered apart after the abduction and rape of Sara.

 

 

 

 

+ High Points

i – The tension and discomfort to watch through rape films had always been a tough task for me. ‘Dil pr pathr dekhnay wali baat hai’ but I have always appreciated and encouraged our film directors to come up with sensitive topics and portray them with a realistic solution/s than just showing up the issue. In this film too, the way they showed the tense, fear for the life of your missing loved one to ever see them again especially how to cope up with this issue and live a ‘Normal’ life again was depicted nicely. For addition, the royal spoiled family behavior with people, servants were ‘Cherry on Top’.

ii – The film is well directed by Shoaib Mansoor. Although cannot say that it’s his best work but really good job. Yes, I enjoyed the film.

iii – Mahira Khan’s performance as Sara has been superb. Naturally this is the main reason why she is often given a lead role. Someone who could pull the role as the script demands it to be. Her performance, plus her reactions to the accusations her husband makes at her are … praise worthy.

iv – Zarrar Khan played the main antagonist as Sultan, has performed strongly indeed. He is one of the few actors in this film who have performed next to best to Mahira’s performance. I would look forward to his upcoming work. Other Honorable Mentions: Rasheed Naz and Malik Ata Muhammad Khan.

v – I love how the court scenes were handled, some nice twists, turns here and there.

vi – The signature move of Shoaib Mansoor’s films, the voice towards the injustice of females, how our law, religion and religious clerics view them as is shown Khuda K Liye, Bol and now this film, all three films have in them.

vii – The production design was very pleasantly handled and represented. Good job!

viii – The real face is shown of our society, our police, our government, our system … everywhere corruption and injustice exist very openly in our nation. It is shameful to say but it’s true. Just because we do not talk about it, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t happen.

 

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The film was a bit lengthy than I was perceived it to be. It was around 2 hours and 35 minutes long. I believe 2 hours would have been enough.

ii – Songs didn’t do justice with the film. Well as a matter of fact, I believe they should not be part for these kinds of films in the first place. Though I do understand that it is our public demand to see them in the films

iii – Lack of star power and average performances by most of the cast is huge negative point here. Although I would not support commercial actors for such sensitive topic films but I would support strong performances. Yes, the lead actress Mahira Khan did an excellent job but what about others? They should have picked a solid performer for the Husband’s role.

 

 

 

 

+ Overall

Verna is a difficult film to watch and digest. Not because it is poorly shot but due to its horrifying experience to imagine in their place. This may not be Shoaib Mansoor’s best work but it is surely a work where some years from now public, film makers alike would cherish it as one of the most important films to be produced regarding injustice towards females.

 

 

 

Rate: 3.50 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Drama feature length film, Moor (2015) aka Mother. The Production Houses are Azad Film Company & Mandviwalla Entertainment while its Distributor is Geo Films.

 

 

+ Crew

• Written, Directed & Produced by Jami Mahmood
• Cinematography Farhan Hafeez
• Edited by Rizwan AQ
• Music by Strings
• Co-Produced by Nazira Ali and Nadeem Mandviwalla

 

 

 

+ Note

Moor, is a Pashto word meaning “Mother”. Moor was previously named as Morqaye. Film’s story depicts the railway system of Balochistan, especially the closure of Zhob valley railways in 1984. Partially the shooting took place in an area of Pakistan’s Balochistan province that was under the control of the Taliban militia. Despite their reputation for hard line fundamentalism, the local Taliban even allowed the crew to shoot in their own headquarters.

The soundtrack of this film is composed by the Pakistani band, Strings. Kothbiro by Ayub Ogada is featured in the trailer. The film bought the copyrights.

Moor took eight years from conception to release. Work on the script began in 2007, and the first teaser trailer appeared in 2013, two years before the film’s premiere.

It was selected to premiere at 20th Busan International Film Festival. The film was selected as the Pakistani entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards but it was not nominated.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Hameed Sheikh as Wahid
2. Shaz Khan as Ehsaanullah Khan
3. Samiya Mumtaz as Palwasha
4. Abdul Qadir as Baggoo Baba
5. Shabbir Rana as Zahir
6. Sultan Hussain as Lalu
7. Ayaz Samoo as Imtisal

 

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+ Supportive Cast

1. Nayyar Ejaz as Talat
2. Soniya Hussain as Amber
3. Eshita Mehboob Syed as Arzo
4. Joshinder Chaggar as Sarah
5. Omar as Asghar
6. Zainullah as Dilawar

 

 

+ Plot

After the death of the family’s matriarch, her husband and son must confront not only the corruption in society around them but the corruption within themselves.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Sir Hameed Sheikh’s performance in a husband / father role is played out very well. His confusion and desperation of the funds for his family is shown brilliantly. His long lost love for his motherland is well put.

ii – Although Samiya Mumtaz has a small role in the film but one of the best in executing it. She is a wonderful actress and usually plays rural area righteous mother roles. Other Honorable Mentions: Shaz Khan, Abdul Qadir and Ayaz Samoo.

iii – A valuable story is shared through the medium of film making. A strong message is left for the audience.

iv – Farhan Hafeez did an amazing work in cinematography. This is a trademark of Jami’s films.

v – The locations of Balochistan are carefully chosen for great visual story telling.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The film is at quite a slow pace. People may have hard time watching it.

ii – There is not much to watch or enjoy the film. Most of the critics get it confused to say that perhaps ‘I the film carries a strong message, it means it is a good film to watch’ which is not necessary! These two are completely different from each other.

 

 

 

+ Overall

In sum, Moor is a beautiful shot film — and one that gives viewers the momentum to choose their destiny in front of their honor and beliefs.

 

 

Rate: 3.0 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Drama feature length film, Bol (2011) aka Speak. The Production House is Shoman productions while its Distributors are Geo Films and Eros International Ltd.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed, Written, Music & Produced by Shoaib Mansoor
• Cinematography by Salman Razzaq
• Production Design & Wardrobe by Fatima Jilani
• Edited by Armughan Hassan
• Makeup & Hair styling by Ather Shezad

 

 

 

+Note

Bol’s OST by Baqir Abbas while its music contributions by Atif Aslam, Sajjad Ali, Ahmed Jahanzeb and Hadiqa Kiyani. It is a debut film of Mahira Khan.

This film was a critical and commercial success, and became one of the highest-grossing Pakistani films of all time. Bol concerns a religious Muslim family facing financial difficulties caused by too many children and changing times, with a major plot involving the father’s desire to have a son and his rejection of his existing transgender male-assigned-at-birth daughter. The objective of the project was to advocate for women’s rights by bringing the focus of media and the elite of Pakistan to family planning and gender issues.

Bol is set in Lahore and many students from National College of Arts’ (NCA) film making department assisted Shoaib Mansoor on it. It was awarded the best Hindi film award in IRDS Film awards 2011 by the Institute for Research and Documentation in Social Sciences (IRDS), a Lucknow-based civil society organization for raising many social issues including the regressive attitude of a male-dominated society.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Humaima Malik as Zainub
2. Manzar Sehbai as Hakim Sahib
3. Shafqat Cheema as Ishaq “Saqa” Kanjar
4. Amr Kashmiri as Saifi
5. Atif Aslam as Mustafa

 

 

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+ Supportive Cast

1. Mahira Khan as Ayesha
2. Zaib Rehman as Suraiya
3. Iman Ali as Sabina
4. Irfan Khoosat as Mustafa’s father
5. Meher Sagar as Young Saifi

 

 

 

+ Plot

A female convict on death row, her last wish is to tell her story to the media.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Humaima Malik’s performance is really good in playing as extrovert character. She showed everyone, how well she could play a lead role.

ii – Manzar Sehbai did a terrific job in the role as abusive father and husband. His inclusion in this film Bol made even further interesting to watch. Other Honorable Mentions: Shafqat Cheema and Atif Aslam.

iii – The multiples issues that are shown in the film are important problems that are either too sensitive or taboo to discuss about which are covered by some misguided religious molvis and scholars.

iv – The cinematography is quite effectively shoot, especially the different angle shots that are taken in creative manner of the city of Lahore.

v – Its interesting story made the viewer’s highly motivated to watch it till the end.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – Too many issues were highlighted in the film where unable to focus one subject matter strongly nor in detail.

ii – It’s funny to see how easily Ayesha is roaming around, going places with Mustafa… even if she is in burkha, the neighborhood is not stupid or blind to see who is it anyway or why don’t anyone complains to their father of it?

 

 

 

+ Overall

The presence of Shaqat Cheema kicks this interesting movie into faster gear where the audience & critics alike consider Bol as one of the most significant films that have been ever produced by our Pakistani film industry.

 

 

Rate: 4.0 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Action-Drama feature length film, Raasta (2017) aka Path. The Production Houses are Sahir Lodhi Films, Hom Production, Sams Company & TV-1 Films while it’s Distributor is IMGC Global Entertainment.

 

 

+ Crew

• Written, Narrated, Produced & Directed by Sahir Lodhi
• Cinematography by Nabeel Jawaid Qureshi
• Co-Written by Shahid Naqvi
• Edited by Muhammad Irfan & Muhammad Bilal Habib
• Co-Produced by Moid Ul Hassan and Dr. Faisal Zia

 

 

 

+ Songs

1. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
2. Sara Raza Khan
3. Nabeel Shaukat
4. Damiya Farooqui
5. Saman Saleem Sabri

 

 

 

+ Note

Raasta was to be released on 23^rd March 2017 (Defense Day). However, due to getting heavy censored it was postponed and released on 31^st March 2017. Since the film is cut a lot before its release thus it is unjust to blame on film editing as many times I felt why this scene was shown after this one. To do justice, one needs to watch the original cut (uncensored one). But the question is who has the guts to do that?

The music directors are Sajai Ali & Kamran Akhtar. It’s about two brothers, Sultan who is the elder brother, police inspector and has a family. The younger brother is Samir, who is qualified but is unemployed for last 8 years. This is Sahir Lodhi & Saima Azhar’s debut film.

Raasta’s theme reminded me of fame Bollywood film ‘Vaastav’ (1999).

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Sahir Lodhi as Sameer
2. Aijaz Aslam as Inspector Sultan
3. Syed Naveed Raza as Sherry
4. Shamoon Abbasi as Shah Nawaz Rajput
5. Sana Nawaz as Bhabhi
6. Abeer Rizvi as N/A
7. Saima Azhar as N/A
8. Saleem Mairaj as N/A
9. Mathira (Item Girl) as N/A
10. Saniya Mansoor as N/A

 

 

+ Plot

The bond of two brothers is shown where the elder one Sultan is an honest police inspector, has a family and firmly believes that no one should be considered above the law. As for Samir, who is unable to get a white collar job thus starts doing odd jobs to make his ends meet. During Samir’s struggle for good work, he gets mixed up with gangsters like Shah Nawaz and his younger brother Sherry.

 

 

 

+ High Points

i – Aijaz Aslam’s acting is above average whereas mild performances by rest of the cast including Sahir Lodhi’s (but in the first half only).

ii – I liked the film’s message which they conveyed it throughout their film ‘Raasta’ (Path) that is instead of choosing between a righteous or misguided path to reach to your destiny… here the lead character is forced to take wrong path as a result of being jobless, society ignorance, lack of family support and getting into brawl with wrong people.

iii – The struggle to choose righteous path while facing many hurdles was properly handled in the film. The director gave importance in establishing his character emotional link with the audience. I believe it was a good effort that made in making the connection. What I am saying is that the first half of the film is… watchable! There, I said it aloud.

iv – The makeover of Sahir Lodhi in second half while the makeup & hair styling of Mathira looks good.

v – The cinematic shots and lighting particularly in the songs are nicely executed.

vi – Most of the songs are nice to listen to. Not all but most of them.

vii – Art direction throughout the film is very decent.

vii – There is a shot taken in the later of the film where Sahir Lodhi is lying down in the similar position of crucifixion. Either this scene was intended to give symbolic meaning to it or maybe Sahir Lodhi thought it may look cool on-screen.

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – Writing is a very difficult task indeed. Anyone who has worked in the media production would agree to this right away. For a good writing skill, one should be able to give proper portray of their characters, to do justice with them, a story worth telling, sharing with the people — which is not an easy thing to do. It needs a lot of experience, study how to write or work under the guidance of an expert.

However, when a person who has vast abundance of wealth, many references / contacts then that person would most probably not give any heed to this above say and would a make film like ‘Raasta’. Although the film’s plot may look good on paper, but once it is shown as a film especially after interval — its equivalent of having brain hemorrhage.

ii – Sahir Lodhi’s character from start of the film shown able to overcome any thug, always wins in fights against anyone, even if that person is mafia leader / don himself. After the interval, all hell breaks loose! Then Sahir Lodhi’s character becomes very similar to Greek mythology’s immortal demi-god. Now anything is possible by him.

iii – Saleem Meeraj is such a good actor. He is usually in such good projects. But what made him say yes to be in a film like this? Anyone? I think perhaps to maintain his friendship he had to be in the film.

iv – We don’t have just one but two item songs. Yes, two! It does not matter if the item song is performed by a respected model / actress or not, either way it is still degrading and offending to be inserted in the film. Item girls are always considered as sex objects for the viewers and speaking of item songs, why do we need them anyways? Can you not entertain people with your good script, strong performances and great direction? In this case, no it’s not possible.

v – After a cliffhanger interval which was misleading (naturally), all logic is now officially thrown in the trash can and the film dares you to watch whatever they show you on screen. At this point, I was thinking perhaps watching Waseem Hassan Sheikh’s notorious ads were a better option.

The things they have showed in the second half is cruelty to your brain; because as soon as the interval came, it give you one last final warning to pack your bags and move abroad or just ditch your film ticket’s expense and go have a dinner at a good restaurant. As your life is more precious than what you are about to witness after the interval.

vi – When a person kills your loved one, it is understood that you would come back with vengeance (especially when both are killers). So instead of gathering your forces and keeping them on high alert, that person is enjoying an item song while having alcohol and getting wasted.

vii – Samir’s transformation into new self can now shoot & kill anyone without even looking. No matter where ever that person is, he just shoots them dead. All this is done with one magazine only which is enough for him to tackle and kill the entire gang of mafia rivals (clap, clap, clap… Bravo!).

viii – The fight sequence between Shamoon Abbasi and Sahir Lodhi is not only unrealistic but that the wiring attached to Shamoon is making him jump in highly impractical manner.

ix – A woman comes complaining to Shamoon Abbasi to know the whereabouts of her missing husband to which he lets her know but forces her to live with him instead. And in the very next scene, we are shown that woman has become his mistress… willingly! What…? My! I guess he must be so good in bed huh? <Wink>

x – A punch line Shahrukh Lodhi kept repeating in the film … ‘Is Zindagi Meh Sirf Do Log Hothay Hai… Eik Tum Aur Eik Meh’. And you have to listen to this lame dialogue in last few scenes much often.

xi – What we are shown in its end, is highly unlikely thing to happen. It is shown as a dream sequence but I can assure you that it’s not!

 

 

 

+ Overall

Despite the apparent great cinematography, decent songs, sound performances yet Raasta is a highly fictionalized story of one-man battle with never-ending trash action sequences and cheesy dialogues.

 

 

Rate: 1.75 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Romantic feature length film, Chain Aye Na aka State of Restlessness (2017). The Production House is Hollywood Impressions & Paragon Entertainment Combined Production.

 

 

+ Crew

• Written, Directed & Produced by Syed Noor
• Cinematography by Irfan Mirza
• Edited by Syed Umar Shafiq
• Music by M. Arshad & Iffi-K (UK)
• Co-Produced by Jawed Siddiqi and Naim Haroon Sakhia

 

 

 

+ Note

Chain Aye Na’s infamous trailer created such a viral just within couple of days where many people and fans alike questioned Shehroz Sabzwari’s move to choose such a film. The film itself received mixed to mostly negative reviews by critics.

Adil Murad is the son of late Waheed Murad, one of the most famous Pakistani film actors of all time. This film debuts actress Sarish Khan.

 

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Shehroz Sabzwari as Rayyan
2. Sarish Khan as Ruba
3. Adil Murad as Murad
4. Sobia Khan as Murad’s Mistress
5. Mustafa Qureshi as Murad’s Father
6. Nadeem Baig as Ruba’s Dad

 

 

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+ Supportive Cast

1. Behroze Sabzwari as Rayyan’s Dad
2. Danish Nawaz as Danish
3. Atiqa Odho as Ruba’s Mom
4. Waqar Godhra as Rayyan’s Friend
5. Maryam as Rayyan’s Friend-Sis

 

 

+ Plot

It revolves around Rayyan, who is a young musician and falls in love with Ruba at first sight. However Ruba has no interest in Rayyan as she thinks she is happily engaged to Murad.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Danish Nawaz as Rayyan’s friend and musician has performed well. I was actually enjoying in watching his scenes. Other Honorable Mentions: Behroze Sabzwari and Mustafa Qureshi.

ii – The comic relief by Danish Nawaz and occasionally by Mustafa Qureshi was hilarious. They add up much fun during this un-interesting film.

iii – Most of the songs are good to listen to only.

iv – Shehroz Sabzwari’s boyish looks and attitude finally matched his role perfectly well. A person with a case of highly immaturity and is madly in love with to-be soon married young female.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – Warning: After watching Chain Aye Na personally, since there is a long list of flaws in this film that is why it’s better to talk on only the most recognizable ones.

A romantic comedy film turned out to be just cheesy-comedy film unintentionally. Just as the interval came, a guy sitting in front row to me said it a loud “Oh-My-God”! And everyone started laughing. Everyone means 11 people. That’s the total number of people as audience at Nuplex cinema hall; although this film is released only few days ago. Then we see that Rayyan is unable to take ‘No!’ for an answer. The same guy sitting in front row of mine said ‘Is he mad?’ Just like before, everyone started laughing. Even in dance scenes, audience were chuckling and giggling while covering their mouths.

ii – I disagree with other reviews regarding showing domestic violence against women. The film’s message was not that at all. Instead it shows no matter what, if a guy truly falls in love with someone and believes in himself then no one or divine intervention can stop him from winning that female’s heart. She would definitely fall in love with him eventually once she realizes his true love and craziness for her. Although I remember a very good Bollywood film, depicting same issue where the things end up pretty opposite as they would in real life — That film’s name is ‘Darr’ (1993).

The other message was how some parents take their children for granted and uses them for achieving their personal goals.

iii – This film needs a good dance choreographer, as Sobia Khan decides to wear red dress tries to dance in seductive manner but it appears as if she is aerobics fanatic.

iv – It gives a very bad impression of Shehroz Sabzwari to see with his father always / mostly in his projects. It looks as if Shehroz cannot find work and looks up to his father Behroze Sabzwari all the time. His father should let his son make his own choices regarding film career at least and try to work in separate projects. Let Shehroz appear in good films for some time before start working in his projects again. Shehroz has a long way to go to be in his father’s footsteps.

v – Adil Murad plays a dark, bad character therefore there are hardly any lights in his ‘Castle Vania’ where he most of time is in his nighty, smokes cigars and drinks a lot. His favorite place for ‘Having fun’ is by the house / farm’s poolside with his lovesick mistress.

vi – In different vocal songs, Shehroz’s voice doesn’t matches at all. It clearly shows that he is lip sync only.

vii – The intense scene in the film’s end was so funny that no one in the audience had a straight face but kept laughing non-stop. The sound of laughter became so loud that it started echoing in almost empty hall.

viii – Adil Murad’s last scene indicates that most probably there would a sequel. — A sequel?!? Are you ****ing kidding me?? Whose goanna watch THAT?

ix – Rayyan and Ruba come running to hug each other with such an expression on their faces which shows clear sign of relief as almost saying it aloud ‘Thank God! the film is over’!

 

 

 

+ Overall

Chain Aye Na is so Bad that it’s actually ‘Good’ and may become cult favorite by Syed Noor’s die-hard fans.

 

 

 

Rate: 1.0 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Drama feature length film, Chalay Thay Saath (2017) aka We Walked Together. The Production Houses are We Think Films and Hot Water Bottle Films.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Umer Adil
• Cinematography by Shahzad Khan
• Written by Atiya Zaidi
• Edited by M. Arsalan (Sharp Image)
• Produced by Beenish Umer

 

 

 

+ Note

Chalay Thay Saath is focused on the Hunza Culture. It was shot in the Northern Areas of Pakistan in the region of Gilgit-Baltistan. The film crew over 40 days to complete the film shoot in the Hunza region.

Its original background score is composed by Abbas Ali Khan and songs by Mooro.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Syra Shehroz as Resham
2. Kent S. Leung as Adam
3. Pepsi as Pepsi
4. Behroze Sabzwari as Resham’s father
5. Mansha Pasha as Tania
6. Osama Tahir as Zain
7. Sherbaaz Kaleem as N/A
8. Shamim Halai as N/A
9. Zhalay Sharhadi as N/A
10. Faris Khalid as N/A

 

 

+ Plot

Resham is on a journey to discover her past and future alongside her friends. They come across a Chinese citizen, Adam who carries a language translator application in his mobile to understand and speak his new friends’ language. During this time, with the surroundings of beautiful mountainous scenery, Resham and Adam fall in love with each other.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Osama Tahir’s performance is very intriguing and praise worthy. Last time I watched his performance in All-Stars theatre play ‘Qusorwaar’ directed by Sunil Shankar at Arts Council, based on classic Broadway & film ’12 Angry Men’. Osama is a great actor and was pleased to see his inclusion in this film as part of the supporting cast. Other Honorable Mentions: Rest of the performers.

ii – Art direction and the northern area locations that they chose to be used throughout the film is very exotic and highly stunning to look at.

iii – The humor is light hearted without using any vulgarity or cheap jokes. Some punch lines are very amusing.

iv – I was pleased to see Hani Taha in Mooroo’s song in mid of the film, thought she was an add-on in the cast for the later film. I have watched her performances in recent theatre plays, where she has acted really well. Unfortunately, she was just there as cameo appearance.

v – The cinematography is beautifully shot, and nicely handled. Good job!

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – In multiple scenes, you would see Pepsi’s presence. Pepsi cans are everywhere, the people are shown consuming Pepsi instead of water. The person responsible for its ‘Product Placement’ should be sued / fired for almost ruining the film.

Plus in the start, a long list of ‘Media / Travel / Print / Sponsor / Radio partners’ were shown before the film actually began. I almost said it aloud in the audience, ‘Picture meh sirf yahi dekhnay ko milayga kya’?

ii – The writer used a very simple story / plot.

iii – The second half was a bit drag. A couple of reviewers gave bad reviews to the film due to this main reason but it did not bother me as such.

iv – Except for one or two, the songs are either so-so or forgettable.

v – There were some scenes of close medium shots where the camera was shaking unnecessarily that instead of focusing on what the scene is about or listen to the actor’s punch lines or watch his performance… my concern was ‘Why the hell camera is shaking for’?

 

 

 

+ Overall

Chalay Thay Saath is a smooth romantic comedy with charming performances.

 

 

Rate: 3.25 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani Thriller-Drama feature length film, Saawan aka Saawan: Quest for Survival (2016). The Production House is Kalakar Films while its Distributor is Geo Films.

 

 

+ Crew

• Cinematography & Directed by Farhan Alam
• Written & Produced by Mashood Qadri
• Edited by Aseem Sinha
• Production Designed by Shahid Hussain
• Co-Produced by Asma Qadri

 

 

 

+ Note

Saawan is based on a true story of a disabled child, who faced difficulties in the deserts of Pakistan. Its music is composed by Anne Kathrin Dern & Emir Işılay while a special appearance is made by Lt. Gen. S. A. A. Najmi (R).

This film was shot in the Balochistan and Northern region of Pakistan in Quetta district, Ziarat district, Gilgit-Baltistan and Shigar.

Saawan won ‘Best Film’ and ‘Best Director’ at the Social World Film Festival 2017 in Naples, Italy. And in the same year, ‘Best Foreign Language Feature Film’ award at the Madrid International Film Festival and at Alexandria Film Festival. It was selected as the Pakistani entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards, but it was not nominated.

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Syed Karam Abbas Hussain as Saawan
2. Arif Bahalim as Father
3. Najiba Faiz as Mother
4. Saleem Mairaj as Child Abductor
5. Muhammad Abbas as Rehmat
6. Imran Aslam as News Reporter
7. Hafeez Ali as N/A
8. Sehrish Qadri as N/A

 

 

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+ Supporting Cast

1. Sohail Malik as N/A
2. Shahid Niazmi as N/A
3. Danial Yunus as N/A
4. Mehek Zulfiqar as N/A
5. Syed Muhammad Ali as N/A
6. Liam as Three-leg Dog
7. Tipu Sharif as Army Officer (Cameo)
8. Gen. S. A. A. Najmi (R) as N/A

 

 

 

 

+ Plot

A handicapped 9-year old boy who lives in a valley in the mountains of Balochistan is rejected by his father, intimidated by society, harassed by friends and left alone due to his disability. Strengthened by memories and dreams of the love of his mother, he begins a perilous journey back to his family in the main city.

 

 

 

+ High Points

i – The production design of this film’s plot of showing ghost town in a deserted, mountainous area of the rural Balochistan, and some of the city areas, have worked well with story’s requirement.

ii – The main cast is lesser known / commercial faces you would find, which has helped this film’s story to be taken more realism and believable.

 

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The writer has highlighted several issues one has to face while residing at Balochistan. This has made the viewers to lose focus from the main issue, Saawan was trying to look on.

ii – I don’t even remember listening to any proper vocal songs or songs good enough to recall.

 

 

 

+ Overall

Saawan lacks the thrill & the excitement of the protagonist’s magical journey towards survival and bravery, despite some convincing performances.

 

 

 

Rate: 1.50 out of 5 stars

 

A review on a Pakistani Romantic feature length film, Janaan (2016). Its Production House is IRK Films while its Distributors are ARY Films and B4U Films.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Azfar Jafri
• Written by Osman Khalid Butt
• Cinematographer is Rana Kamran
• Edited by Mitesh Soni
• Produced by Hareem Farooq, Reham Khan, Munir Hussain & Imran Raza Kazmi

 
+ Note

Janaan is a story of three friends with a Pakhtoon culture. This film reminded me of Bollywood film, Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai (2002) and Hollywood film, My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997). Its music is composed by Taha Malik, Ahmed Ali, Armaan Malik and Salim Sulaiman.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Armeena Khan as Meena
2. Bilal Ashraf as Asfandyar Khan
3. Ali Rehman Khan as Daniyal Khan
4. Hania Aamir as Palwasha Samir
5. Nayyar Ejaz as Ikramullah
6. Usman Mukhtar as Samir

 

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+ Supporting Cast

1. Ajab Gul as Asad Khan
2. Mishi Khan as Shireen Gul
3. Shafqat Khan as Khan Zaada
4. Saad Zia Abbasi as Chotu
5. Sabeena Farooq as Palwasha’s Friend
6. Fahad Ali Panni as N/A
7. Jalal Khan as N/A

 

 

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+ Cameo Appearances

1. Osman Khalid Butt as Musician
2. Hareem Farooq as N/A

 

 

+ Plot

Meena lives abroad but is called back to Swat; Pakistan (home town) by her affluent family to attend Asfandyar’s sister, Palwasha’s wedding. There, her two cousins, Asfandyar and Daniyal are thrilled to have her with them at a time of joy.

 

 

+ High Points

i. It is a fun-loving family entertainment film.

ii. Beautiful work behind its costume design / wardrobe, each and everything is carefully taken care of.

iii. Ali Reham Khan performed a true hilarious perpetual character. Even in most poignant scenes, he gets back to fun loving character in just few moments. Whenever, he made appearance on screen, the audience was pleased in watching his scenes and what next thing he would do to make witty remarks? I was amazed that how well everyone performed including the supporting and minor role actors.

iv. The cinematography is done in such excellent manner that the scenic shots are taken are breathtaking to watch. Pakistan’s natural beauty looked elegant under his watch. The lighting in each scene is sensational! The cinematographer and colorist have gained a true respect from me.

v. The songs were nice and lovable to listen. One or two are in Pashto language. The soundtrack is also very pleasant.

vi. Armeena Khan along with two fellow co-stars Ali and Bilal, all three looked stunning in makeup & hair styling.

vii. The script, dialogues are quite funny and comical.

viii. It seemed that director is a true magician as he held back few tricks up in his sleeves as the film is about to reach to its conclusion.

ix. The art direction was superbly taken care of. All the wooden craft were traditional embroidered upholstery.

 

 

+ Low Points

i. The story is already used a thousand times over by many films alike. One would be thinking that this film looks similar to this or that film.

ii. The serious lucid issue which was highlighted in the film, the team behind the film didn’t actually work on it to go in detail in able to solve the issue but rather concern in fighting with the antagonist over it.

iii. The film seemed a bit longer than it should be as the story didn’t as such unfolds in being pepped but was stretched till the end. The film could have ended at least 20 minutes before. At times the story seemed compelling whereas in second half it was a bit drag.

iv. There were some dialogues in Pashto language with Roman Urdu subtitles. Before I could read the text, most of the audience already started laughing. I felt like only one who didn’t understand Pashto language.

 

 

+ Overall

Janaan is a delightful surprise for the movie lovers and a plus point for revival of Pakistani cinema.

 

 

Rate: 4.25 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Australian – Pakistani feature length (collaboration) film, Son of a Lion (2007). The Production Houses are Carolyn Johnson Films while its Distributors are ARD Degeto Film and Mara Pictures.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed, Written & Cinematography by Benjamin Gilmour
• Co-Cinematography by Haroon John
• Edited by Alison McSkimming Croft
• Music by Amanda Brown
• Produced by Carolyn Johnson

 

 

 

+ Note

Benjamin Gilmour being an Australian former paramedic, this is his directional debut. Son of a Lion set in Darra Adam Khel, in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The film is in Pashto with English subtitles. The writing is been done in teamwork with the people of Kohat & Darra Adam Khel, Pakistan.

Gilmour visited Darra Adam Khel in August 2001, on his way from Australia to Britain, and wanted to make a film that would combat negative Western perceptions of Pashtuns and Muslims following the 11 September attacks. Son of a Lion cost slightly over £2,000 to film. The Australian Film Commission funded its post-production.

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Niaz Khan Shinwari as Niaz Afridi
2. Sher Alam Miskeen Ustad Baktiyar as Sher Alam Afridi
3. Baktiyar Ahmed Afridi Agha as Baktiyar Afridi
4. Agha Jaan Anousha Baktiyar as Agha Jaan

 

 

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+ Supportive Cast

1. Fazal Bibi Pite as Grandma
2. Khaista Mir Hayat Afridi as Pite Afridi
3. Anousha Vasif Shinwari as Anousha Baktiyar
4. Hayat Khan Shinwari as Hayat Afridi

 

 

 

+ Plot

Niaz Afridi, a Pashtun boy who wants to go to school instead of carrying on the family business of manufacturing firearms.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Performances by everyone are satisfactory, helps the story to move forward.

ii – The people who are unknown to this kind of environment may find Son of a Lion keen to watch.

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The interest level throughout the film was very low. It was like watching everyday story of a simple man. Some people might defend this and say it’s good that it’s simple. I do agree with that but the thing is that it’s so simple that interest level never comes in the entire film.

 

 

 

+ Overall

Son of a Lion is too simple story-based film… do we have anything else to watch?

 

 

Rate: 1.50 out of 5 stars