A review on Pakistani Classic Drama TV Series, ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ (2012-13) aka Life is Blossomed Garden. The Production House is MD Productions while its Distributor is Hum TV.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Sultana Siddiqqui
• Written by Umera Ahmed
• Opening & Ending Title Songs by Ali Zafaro & Hadiqa Kiani
• Produced by Momina Duraid

 

 

+ Note
Zindagi Gulzar Hai was aired on Hum TV from 30^th Nov 2012 – 24^th May 2013. In total it consists of 26 episodes. It is based on the novel of the same name by Umera Ahmad.

 The story revolves around two persons, opposite in thoughts and financial status. This serial has a strong female lead protagonist and was very popular among the female audience. Netflix recently launched Pakistani dramas and Zindagi Gulzar Hai was added to Netflix on December 15, 2015. Currently it holds 4-star rating.

 This drama got 9 awards at the 2nd Hum Awards, 3 awards at the 4th Pakistan Media Awards and 2 awards at the 13th Lux Style Awards. The role of Sanam Saeed was appreciated by critics. As for Fawad Khan it was the third blockbuster drama for him after Dastaan and Humsafar.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Sanam Saeed as Kashaf Murtaza
2. Fawad Khan as Zaroon Junaid
3. Mehreen Raheel as Asmara Tariq
4. Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui as Osama
5. Samina Peerzada as Rafiya Murtaza/ Kashaf’s mother
6. Behroze Sabzwari as Abrar/ Teacher and Zaroon’s Uncle
7. Mansha Pasha as Sidra Murtaza/ Kashaf’s elder sister
8. Waseem Abbas as Murtaza/ Kashaf’s father
9. Ayesha Omer as Sara Junaid/ Zaroon’s sister

 

 

xxxxxxx

 

 

+ Supportive Cast

1. Hina Khawaja Bayat as Ghazala Junaid/ Zaroon’s & Sara’s mother
2. Javed Shaikh as Junaid
3. Sana Sarfaraz as Shehnila Murtaza/ Kashaf’s younger sister
4. Maheen Rizvi as Maria Khan/ Kashaf’s University friend
5. Shazia Afgan as Nigar Murtaza / 2nd wife of Murtaza
6. Muhammad Asad as Hammad Murtaza / Step Brother of Kashaf
7. Kanwar Nafees as Farhan Zaid
8. Khalid Ahmed as Wahab / Murtaza’s elder brother

 

 

 

+ Plot

After the absence of father’s support and his love for son only, Kashaf and her other two sisters have made themselves into strong, healthy individuals; to live a much better life on their own. At such time, Zaroon and Kashaf have gain strong differences for each other after an infamous feud occurred in the university’s library.

 

 

+ High Points

i – The writing regarding actors’ characteristics and screenplay especially of the conversation between the lead stars is very beautifully written. I loved how an upper social class husband, easily adapts, adjusts him with lower middle class in-laws. His maturity makes him accept it all the simplicity way of living his in-laws have. On the other hand, Kashaf’s father realization of his 1^st wife’s proper upbringing of daughters is shown and asks to do the same with her step-son as well. But all was too late now.

ii – I don’t remember watching this director’s any previous work. But here, Sultana Siddiqqui’s directorial skills have made a difference in our TV industry. This TV drama is surely to be remembered by many people for times to come.

iii – Another awesome TV drama and performance by handsome, young actor, Fawad Khan as Zaroon. It’s hard to imagine of having ‘Just Okay’ TV drama when he is on-board. The chemistry with Sanam and Mehreen was exciting and fun to watch.

iv – Sanam Saeed as Kashaf, shown as strong headed feminist who always felt the lack of her father’s support to her & her siblings which ultimately turned herself into a independent lady. Other Honorable Mentions: Mehreen Raheel, Behroze Sabzwari, Samina Peerzada and Waseem Abbas.

v – It was nice to see small issues that the married couples often make them and highlight them as huge problems, although already living a happy life.

vi – The humor level was light but at times very amusing.

vii – The performances by everyone is superb and well-casted to play their roles.

viii – Good work behind its production design, able to bring the realism of social classes differences and props.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The drama kept mentioning of other two daughters of Kashaf’s father and of his 2^nd wife that we were never able to see them on-screen. Why it was so? If they didn’t exist, it would not have made any difference to the story whatsoever.

ii – I believe that according to how his character was written, Javed Sheikh’s acting skills were wasted. Any other low profile actor could have done the same job with same result.

iii – His only choices were either Asmara who was his childhood friend and had a causal affair at the university; Or Kashaf, where Zaroon himself had some strong differences for each other. In actual world, you naturally have many other choices to wed off to.

 

 

+ Overall
Zindagi Gulzar Hai offers intelligent, powerfully acted angles on love, marriage, and long-term commitment.

 

 

Rate: 4.50 out of 5 stars

A review on Pakistani TV Drama Series, ‘Baaghi’ aka Rebel (2017 – 18). Its Production House is Paragon Productions while Distribution is done by Urdu 1.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Farooq Rind
• Written by Shazia Khan
• Cinematography by Khaleel Ahmed (KAKA)
• Theme Music by Shuja Haider
• Produced by Nina Kashif

 

 

+ Note

Baaghi aired on Urdu 1 from 27^th Jul 2017 – 1^st Feb 2018. In total it consists of 28 episodes. It is a biographical based TV show on the famous, controversial Pakistani figure, Qandeel Baloch who was murdered by her brother in the name of honor in July 2016. The screenplay of this drama has been done by Umera Ahmed.

Within a week of its launch, Baaghi became the most watched serial being viewed by Pakistanis on YouTube and has also been the limelight of controversies, as expected. The drama is one of the most hyped TV serials ever produced in Pakistan.

Since then this drama series has won many Pakistani TV awards.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Saba Qamar as Fauzia Batool/Kanwal Baloch
2. Osman Khalid Butt as Shehryar
3. Khalid Malik as Rehan
4. Ali Kazmi as Abid
5. Imran Ali Sheikh as CEO of Modeling Talent Agency
6. Sarmad Khoosat as Raheem
7. Irfan Khoosat as Fauzia’s father
8. Saba Faisal as Fauzia’s mother
9. Nadia Afgan as Asma
10. Syed Babrik Shah as Asma’s brother
11. Farhana Maqsood as Abid’s second wife
12. Syed Tabrez Ali Shah as Munna
13. Nimra Khan as Munni
14. Seemi Raheel as Abid’s mother

 

 

xxxxxxx

 

 

+ Supportive Cast

1. Laila Zuberi as Shehreyar’s mother
2. Muskan Jay as Abid’s sister
3. Sophia Mirza as N/A
4. Nishoo as N/A
5. Farah Tufail as N/A
6. Rabia Abid Ali (Noreen) as N/A
7. Raja Matloob as N/A
8. Fahad Sherwani as N/A
9. Usman Mazhar as N/A
10. Ali Deswali as N/A
11. Amna Karim as N/A
12. Mehboob Sultan as Police DSP

 

 

xxxxxxx

 

 

+ Cameo Cast

1. Yasir Hussain as Sohail Warraich
2. Yasir Nawaz as N/A
3. Hareem Farooq as a Pakistan Idol Judge#1
4. Goher Mumtaz as a Pakistan Idol Judge#2
5. Nomi Ansari as a Pakistan Idol Judge#3
6. Salman Saqib Sheikh (Mani) as N/A
7. Hira Tareen as N/A
8. Naeem Tahir as N/A
9. Ismat Zaidi as Chaudhrani Ji
10. Ahmed Godil as N/A
11. Hasan Soomro as N/A
12. Farooq Rind as N/A
13. Amna Karim as N/A

 

 

+ Plot

Fauzia Batool is trapped in love with Abid only to find him different to what he seems. Still hanging onto her dream of becoming famous, she manages to escape her home town and adapts a new name with personality in the glamour world. But is this enough to fulfill her dreams? Or does she has to what it takes to survive in this hypocrisy world of media?

 

 

+ High Points

i – Saba Qamar as Fauzia Batool/Kanwal Baloch gave an outstanding performance as real life, controversial public figure. To be honest, we all did expected her to perform with this much intensity and hard work in able to give a realistic portrayal of ‘Qandeel Baloch’, which this TV drama is inspired from. It is no wonder to see her winning many awards for her performance and the BTS team’s combined efforts in making this TV drama series possible. Her strong performance is one of the main reasons why you should watch this TV drama series.

ii – Khalid Malik as Rehan played out a strong, supporting character for the lead character, especially at times of her need. His solid performance has definitely him grab attention for many other directors and producers to approach Khalid with new and bigger projects. Bravo! Other Honorable Mentions: Ali Kazmi, Imran Ali Sheikh, Sarmad Khoosat and Irfan Khoosat.

iii – Brilliant efforts in writing this script, main ingredient to find in a successful TV drama series. All thanks to Umera Ahmed and Shazia Khan.

iv – Farooq Rind’s direction have made this drama series very interesting to watch.

v – Many cameo appearances had surprised the viewers but their special appearances were pleasant.

vi – Most of the cast gave a very satisfying performance.

vii – The transformation of Fauzia Batool into Kanwal (Qandeel) Baloch was made possible through effective makeup & hair styling and elegant costume designing.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – At one place they say that this TV series is based on actual events and at the same time, they say that it is inspired from real life events. Personally, I would vote for ‘Inspired from real events’ as many of the things, incidents were not shown or changed it entirely or replaced it totally for legal reasons basically. There were many things they did not show as it happened in real life, especially where the real-life figure had flaws or made many wrong, shameful decisions and public comments. They were either tone down or didn’t bother to show. This move helped them to keep the character in positive light. It is usually done by those who don’t want their characters to be disliked by the viewers or to gain sympathy in its stead. Anyone who knows the actual story to what really happened… then only, you would know to how much extend of fiction was used to dramatize this TV series to portray such a debatable person such as ‘Qandeel Baloch’.

ii – The ending turned out to be… so-so. The reason given for the crime was not as much intuiting as the one known in real life. His brother’s temper was raised several times during the mid of the episodes for other issues but never to this extend. The decision was made all of a sudden and acted upon. Some people may disagree with me but this is how I lack of reasoning behind such gruesome action.

iii – Now, I am well aware that the ‘Extras’ roles and their performances are not given much importance to. But still they are part of the drama series and help further to make the fictional world shown in it as real. Here we have some mediocre acting from their side, although the entire drama series is really convincingly performed.

 

 

+ Overall
Surprisingly, Farooq’s Baaghi is intelligent, smooth, engaging, polished, and well-acted by all involved, especially Saba Qamar who proves her critics that she can handle any part, including of controversial figure.

 

 

Rate: 4.25 out of 5 stars

A review on Pakistani Drama TV Serial, ‘Beshahram’ aka Shameless (2016). Its Production House is Six Sigma Plus while its Distributor is ARY Digital Entertainment.

 

 

 

+ Crew

1. Directed by Farooq Rind
2. Written by Sarwat Nazir
3. Produced by Humayun Saeed & Shehzad Nasib

 

 
+ Note

Beshahram aired on ARY Digital from 10^th May 2016 to 1^st Nov 2016. In total it consists of 24 episodes. The name ‘Beshahram’ of the TV drama serial is based on modeling profession of Mishi which is not considered a respected occupation in the society and secondly because her sudden marriage on LIVE talk show with an aspiring politician Haider, have created a new gossiping talk in the social media and in the press.

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1) Saba Qamar as Mishal Tahir Malik / Mishi

2) Zahid Ahmed as Haider Bakht

3) Atiqa Odho as Sara

4) Mehmood Akhtar as Sikandar

 

 

xxxxxxx

 

 

+ Supportive Cast

5) Fia Khan as Sofia

6) Malik Raza as Wahab

7) Sundas Tariq as Humna

8) Shaista Jabeen as Khadija

9) Farah Nadeem as Shakira

10) Ghana Ali as Saba

11) Faisal Rehman as Jamal

12) Jahanzaib Khan as Daniyal

13) Rehan Sheikh as Tahir Malik

 

 

 
+ Plot

One day, two different occupational persons Mishi & Haider get into a bad argument and on the basis of ‘Dare’ get married LIVE on a talk show only to fulfill a challenge. However, this is just beginning of their problems. Since the families of the couple belong to two different social classes with huge difference of their life styles and upbringing, it brings both of them in great pressure where they start to think, to at least to give a chance to their marriage.

 

 

 

+ High Points

i – We have a strong, bold female lead character ‘Mishi’ played by Saba Qamar who has guts to face the harsh environment / situations, solving up issues in her as well as her loved ones’ lives.

ii – The two lead characters of Saba Qamar and Zain Ahmed are not only well written but greatly performed as well. Honorable Mentions: Fia Khan, Malik Raza and Ghana Ali.

iii – The story gets better and interesting as it progresses further.

iv – The direction is good.

v – The script is well written. The humor in some scenes is mild yet laughable to listen to.

vi – Malik Raza character as Wahab is a rich Punjabi paindu (redneck) person and a husband of Sofia. In the start, felt his performance as ‘Over the Top’ acting. But he cleared up the misconceptions from the viewers by making his character more likable to watch in later episodes due to his clumsy, goofy yet funny manner of talk and behavior.

 

 

 

+ Low Points

i – Although the female lead character Mishi is a strong, daring person but her straight forward, rude behavior, her anger and getting herself in unnecessary arguments would make the viewers’ very hard to like in the first few episodes. However, I do understand that this was intentionally done by the writer so that if her character shifts towards softer personality [in the later episodes] then the viewers as well as the people connected in her life including the society would gradually accept her… and perhaps would consider her as a role model.

ii – Easiest and quickest way to write a character is to make that character as a stereotype. Here we have the makeup artist character who is a dear friend of Mishi. Yes, I am aware that there are gay personality people also in this profession but the way his character is written and portrayed is very shameful. Although the writer has done a wonderful job in writing other characters but (unfortunately) here the writer’s creativity is totally lost.

iii – The photographer Kabir who starts to blackmail Saba; to show him as a bad person / villain, the director preferred the actor having his eyes wide open as if he is performing LIVE on-stage.

iv – There are several plot holes left behind in some of the episodes. For instance, when Haider is first time hospitalized; Sikander (Haider’s parental uncle) insists his wife & daughter to pay a visit at the hospital with him. After that scene, no mention of Sikander / his family visiting Haider at the hospital or shown in that / further episodes.

Second example is when Sikander informs Haider of the shop’s partial share (hefty amount) of being stolen from his house, we see Haider making a threat to register FIR against him for giving a false reason for not giving up his (Haider) share which is due on Sikander. Then even after several episodes, no complain to police or demand for his share is asked by Haider to his uncle. It seems Haider has lost interest of his father’s (deceased) partial share of the shop.

v – There are few mistakes in shooting up the scenes. Such as Qadeer tells his parents that he and his fiancée would dine out instead. Just as soon as they have walked out of the screen’s frame, his parents start to back bite of their son’s fiancée behavior and attitude. In real life, the couple would have taken only a step forward from their presence where Qadeer’s parents were back biting loudly and clearly.

vi – The character of Sikander is too loud. I believe that it can be tone down to make more believable and striking for the viewers. Even the ‘Want’ of this character is bit confused. Sometimes, he is working selfishly in able to get bigger share of the shop while in other times, he just feels that Haider is dear to him.

 

 

 

+ Overall

Beshahram’s lead performances, to cope up with acceptance of different social classes struggle to make marriage work is well handled.

 

 

Rate: 3.0 out of 5 stars

A review on Pakistani TV Drama Serial, ‘Sangdil’ (2016). The Production Company is ‘Geo Entertainment’.

 

 

+ Crew
I. Directed by Asad Jabal

II. Written by Sadia Akhtar

III. Produced by Babar Javed & Asif Raza Mir

 

+ Note

Sangdil aired on Geo TV from 29^th Feb – 23^rd Sep 2016. It consists of total 77 episodes. It aired every Mon to Fri at PKT 10:00 pm. The story is inspired by Indian TV drama ‘Amanat’ (1997) and Bollywood film ‘Aaina’ (1993).

 

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Kiran Haq as Sofia
2. Ghana Ali as Zubia
3. Naeem Haque as Zuhaib
4. Hammad Farooqui as Shahzeb
5. Hajra Khan as Rushna / Khala
6. Nazlee Nasr as Farkhanda / Mom

 

xxxxxxx

 

 + Supportive Cast

7. Kaiser Khan Nizamani as Tausif
8. Saqlain Bashir as Rouhan
9. Mehak Ali as Zuhaib’s Mom
10. Parveen Soomro as Dadi #2
11. Faisal Naqvi as Wasif / Khalo
12. Danish Wakeel as Shehroz

 

 

 

+ Plot

It is about two stepsisters, Sofia and Zubia. Zubia is a beautiful girl but ill nature one who is often get favored by her father than towards Sofia who has very kind nature and cares for her younger step sister despite Zubia’s hatred for her. But both sisters’ lives changed once they meet prince charming neighbor, Zuhaib.

 

+ High Points
i – Ghana Ali as Zubia performance is astounding. Her performance was the real charm to watch this long drama series.

ii – Hammad Farooqui as Shahzeb, performed worthy and fully satisfied the want to see an actor to perform in supporting negative role. I’m looking forward to his upcoming projects.

iii – It was surprising to see Danish Wakeel in small supporting role. His role was small yet did an adequate work in his presence.

iv – If we look at the story, how it unfolded with time and the way it came to its conclusion… it is remarkably written.

v – The people behind Makeup and Hairstyling did a swell job.

vi – I liked how Ghana’s and Zuhaib’s character were handled in further episodes. Zubia was shown as so naïve that she literally believes anything her Khala and unable to learn from her past mistakes. Zuhaib on the other hand was the second best support to Sofia (after Farkhanda / Sofia’s mom). It was interesting to see how he treats Zubia, after accepting Sofia in his life.

vii – The ending was properly shown of every major character.

viii – Simultaneously how the life of Zubia & her Khala was going side by side, making ill-schemes for others while they are facing one themselves. Surprising thing is that they both are unable to understand or acknowledge as to why bad things are happening to them? What on earth they ever did wrong to others? It was a smart move by the writer.

 

 

 

+ Low Points
i – No matter how ill one speaks personally against Sofia, yet she would not say anything in her defense even if she is up bring as soft spoken and well mannered daughter. I am not saying that she needs to misbehave or reply harshly but to defend her actions or sayings, although occasionally she does it. — she does not even bother to mention this to her husband, rather waits until the misunderstandings are so much mixed up against her that when Sofia finally feels she needs to tell her husband the truth, he simply refuses to believe her which is btw expected to happen by now.

ii – The drama took it literally to as ‘Walls Have Ears’ or ‘The House of Whispers’. Anyone can hear any conversation he/she is having with someone in a closed room. In some cases, the room’s door is open while two characters are making mischievous schemes. Yes, the room’s door is ajar open yet continuously talking loud enough for anyone to come and listen clearly to what they are saying.

iii – I felt that the performance of the lead actor, Naeem Haque was weak and amateur. His acting was simply not up to the level of getting the lead role. The supporting cast performers did a much better job. Naeem Haque’s performance as Zuhaib was like a pampered child living in a grown man’s body.

iv – It is a trend in Pakistani TV dramas, that they usually make you believe that the lead male character is only suitable guy for the lead / supporting female character to marry with. All other guys in the world are just not as good as the lead male character. Zubia who is shown a very beautiful and rich girl, who can get any guy to marry with … is made to believe that Zuhaib is the only guy left to marry with.

The character Rouhan comes very late in the drama series.

v – I lost interest in the drama series by 13^th – 15^th episode, due to continuous misunderstandings and lie occurring in every episode. In other words, the story in every episode was basically the same. I was able to regain interest after 58^th or 59^th episode which is already TOO LATE by then.

vi – In almost every episode, Zuhaib disregards Sofia due to some lie or misunderstanding but afterwards forgives and becomes nice to her. This behavior lasted in many episodes.

vii – The black magic baba where Rushna takes Zubia to, his getup appeared more like a ‘Makayi Wala’, corn seeds seller.

viii – The (accidental) first meeting of Shahzeb & Sonia only implicates that ‘It’s a small world after all’.

 

 

 

+ Overall
The finale charms while the performances by specific stars elevates the drama series, however Sangdil is still too long with a predictable ending.

 

 

Rate: 3.25 out of 5 stars

A review on Pakistani TV Drama Serial ‘Bashar Momin’ (2012). The Production House is A&B Entertainment while its Distributor is Geo Entertainment.

 

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Syed Ali Raza Usama
• Cinematography by Farhan Golden & Adnan Bukhari
• Written by Zanjabeel Asim
• Edited by Faizan Ghori & Waqas Karim
• Produced by Asif Raza Mir & Babar Javed

 

+ Note

Bashar Momin aired on Geo Entertainment from 14^th March till 8^th November 2012. It consists of total 32 episodes. This drama serial focuses on jealousy, love, hatred, romance and suspicion in the relationships.

It is considered as the most expensive TV drama ever made in Pakistan.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1) Faisal Qureshi as Bashar

2) Ushna Shah as Rudaba

3) Sami Khan as Buland Bakhtyar

4) Yasir Mazher as Adil

 

xxxxxxx

 

 

+ Supportive Cast

5) Maheen Rizvi as Sahira

6) Sundus Tariq as Tayaba

7) Noman Ejaz as Zafar (Special Appearance)

8) Fazal Hussain as Bashar (Young)

 

 
+ Plot

After a sudden unfortunate event, Rudaba starts living with her brother’s family where his hot tempered, wealthy brother-in-law, Bashar Momin often visits. For his sisters’ happiness, he would go at any length to make sure they get what they want.

 

 

+ High Points

i – Faisal Qureshi performance as ‘Bashar Momin’ is… so AMAZING! God! I was so much focused, convinced in his character that for a moment I literally forgot this actor’s actual name. His performances are usually comical and hilarious whether Live on stage or on screen that one would wonder that is he the same actor who is playing the role as ‘Bashar Momin’? Faisal you have out did yourself. This performance is absolutely be cherished as ‘Unforgettable’! Truly amazed by your performance!

The background to the character Bashar Momin is that it is inspired by iconic characters of ‘Tony Montana’ (Scarface – 1983 film) and ‘Michael Corleone’ (Godfather 1 & 2 – 1972 & 1974 films) both played by legendary actor Al Pacino.

Bashar Momin is the anti-hero / tragic villain of this drama series. I cannot even imagine that Faisal would the one who pull this off, able to perform (as intended) to this well written character. Faisal, your performance has been one of the most memorable. Impressive, Most Impressive!

ii – The performances by the main cast as well as the supportive is so POWERFUL! Remarkable performances have uplifted this drama serial in much greater height. Honorable mentions: Faisal Qureshi, Ushna Shah, Yasir Mazher and Maheen Rizvi.

iii – There were three most intense scenes which were greatly shot and directed. One of them is when Bashar and Adil have talk on Rudaba’s marriage while in the presence of Rudaba & Saira in the hall. Second most intense scene is Bashar shouts at his sister Saira to talk with respect to his wife when they all are sitting and dinning in his house. And thirdly, the most intense scene is when Bashar has a fight with Buland at Rudaba’s home. These scenes were so electrifying and STRONGLY performed. Thumbs Up!

iv – The Costume Design, Makeup & Hair-styling, Art Direction were superbly done. You can see its result. Spectacular!

v – The cinematography with artificial lighting is achieved in highly manner. I can see the kind of effort is poured in to make the scene more glamour and attractive for the viewers.

vi – If the script is well written, the performances were given even better. The viewers would be lost in the strong performances that the effort behind the script and its wonderful story would be overshadowed by it. Instead the praises would be shifted to performances than to the script itself.

vii – The character shift of Bashar was well handled and performed. The writer did a wonderful job how his character be shown and reflected on screen. Bravo!

viii – If the director wanted, he could have ended this drama series with 31st as the last episode. But no! No, he did not. He and writer had a proper, well finished ending to this great drama series. The finale was OUTSTANDING!

ix – This is a wonderful drama series produced by our Pakistani TV industry. The team behind this drama series, you guys did an awesome job in executing it especially the writer and the director. The producers have effectively used their heavy investments in this TV drama. ‘Bashar Momin’ character has become an iconic figure in media. Why the viewers should be left to watch most of the Pakistani high-class films with lead actors such as Shaan Shahid or Fahad Mustafa. Why not Faisal Qureshi in lead roles? Why restrict yourself with just TV industry? You are a superb actor. You should create more awareness, by being part of international critically acclaimed limelight films. I always had respect for Faisal Qureshi; an actor, who make us laugh. But now, after watching this drama … you are no longer known to me as just ‘Faisal Qureshi’. Now you would always be remembered, highly respected as Bashar Momin. An actor who is now included in the ranks of elite class actors.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – The over use of artificial lighting in almost every scene (at least 70%) made the viewer being very annoyed by it. The usage of artificial lighting according to the situation, mood of the scene and certain locations allow us to use it very effectively. However, instead of keeping it limited… we have over abundance usage of it which goes against its favor. It seems that the cinematographer was very inspired after watching classic sci-fi film of Ridley Scott’s ‘Blade Runner’ (1982).

ii – Whenever we see the actors dinning out or being at a cafe, such as Bashar happens to do it twice while we see Buland once alone (USA), there are absolutely no people in the background / its surroundings. It is extremely rare to see the waiter even. Only in Nauman Ejaz’s scene we can see multiple waiters (but here it was mandatory for the waiters to interact with the actor) yet hardly any or no extras used who are also dining out at the same restaurant.

iii – The usage of smoke machine is used unnecessarily in those scenes which made ‘no head or tails’. Its usage was shown in the rooms, hall… even in broad day light protest (normal weather). Rather it should be used where it is required only or used according to the theme / nature of the script such as if we have a dream sequence, super natural based scene, weather conditions deteriorated, etc. If you are going to use smoke machine just to look ‘Cool’ in front of the camera, then we both know where you stand in the terms of understanding the nature of the scene and the level of being a ‘Skilled’ person.

iv – The character of Sami Khan as ‘Buland’ showed as the guy who can be easily manipulated and lied to. He was fooled not just once or twice but at least ‘four’ different times. Then, whenever he made an appearance, the viewer would say ‘Oh, the fool is here; which lies would he believe now’?

Secondly though he is shown as good looking, completed his education from USA and works at World Bank (USA) — but it seems that he is left with only two women in his life to marry with. Either it is Rudaba or Tayaba. So, if he cannot marry one of them then its compulsory for him to marry the other. The question is why he cannot find a good wife abroad instead to choose a wife out of these two females?

v – Since the character of Bashar is shown as hot tempered, sometimes unpredictable. The usage of his gun that he keeps in the interior pocket of his coat should be shown used (at least sometimes) instead of just pointing gun at the people who furiously bugs him. Whenever, we see him takes out his gun, we viewers are like ‘Oh, he is just threatening. He would not use it’ because he never does.

vi – Adil being hospitalized, the condition of him being as well dressed, well combed, as if already knew that he might be hospitalized soon so better to get ready for it.

vii – There were no emotional expressions or tolerance shown on the actor Fazal Hussain (young Bashar)’s face when he is talking personally with his mother at the restaurant. I do understand that the writer wanted to show that his mother is now dead to him. But still his tolerance towards his mother should be shown even if it is only slightly.

viii – Hina Khwaja Bayat seemed much older in looks than Nauman Ejaz. If you decided to use her as his lover then the makeover of Nauman should look much older than her. Not the other way around.

ix – When the police raids Bashar & his sister’s home, the scene of the interrogation is so FAKE. I mean, is this how interrogation is done here in Pakistan. No one is comparing it with abroad (well organized & mannered type) interrogation but anyone watches the scene how it is showed in ‘Bashar Momin’ is so dramatic … tsk, tsk.

Also, we see hardly any lights switched on, while they are still in their homes as the police & investigators are asking quick, hard questions. Did the police decided to cut off their power lights before entering their homes and ask questions in dark, pale blue moon lighted rooms?

x – The performances by the investigators, is SO POOR as if it’s a non-linear episode which is included in this ‘Bashar Momin’ series. Although the investigators are standing in Saira’s home and other investigators are sitting in Bashar’s home while the person is in between them, yet we see they are literally pointing their fingers continuously to the victim while accusing them of being accomplice or directing involved in a crime. There is no need to literally point fingers at the victim at who happens to be sitting / standing just next to you.

xi – Furthermore, to make this scene as really ‘INTENSE’, the cinematography is done with lots of zoom in and out, many times slider / dolly track is used on fast pace. However, instead of looking well shot, the cinematography seemed to be shot in a hurry while taking a ride on the swings or on a bicycle with a very rough broken road.

xii – When the press starts asking questions from the closed ones of Bashar, they (press) are so well mannered that they literally wait for the person to finish their sentence or answer before the next question could be asked without any interruptions from their side.

 

+ Overall

Bashir Momin is one of the best TV dramas that Pakistani industry has ever produced!

 

Rate: 4.25 out of 5 stars

 

A review on Pakistani TV Drama Serial, ‘Sang-e-Mar Mar’ [Marble] (2017). The Production House is MD Productions whereas its Title Song is sung by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan.

 

 

+ Crew

• Directed by Saife Hassan
• Cinematography by Khizer Idress
• Written by Mustafa Afridi
• Edited by Saad Bin Jawed
• Produced by Momina Duraid

 

 

+ Note
Sang-e-Mar Mar aired on Hum TV from 1^st Sep 2016 – 17^th Mar 2017. It consists of total 28 episodes. The entire production was shot in the Swat District, mainly in the village of Ronyal and its outskirts.

 

 

+ Main Cast

1. Noman Ijaz as Gulistan Khan
2. Sania Saeed as Shameem
3. Mikaal Zulfiqar as Aurang
4. Kubra Khan as Shireen
5. Paras Masroor as Torah
6. Uzma Hassan as Shehrbano / Baano
7. Omair Rana as Safiullah
8. Kaif Ghaznavi as Pari
9. Tipu Sharif as Saif Ur Rehman

 

xxxxxxx

 

+ Supportive Cast

1. Najiba Faiz as Gulalai
2. Sharmeen Ali as Palwasha
3. Beenish Raja as Durkhanay
4. Agha Mustafa Hassan as Goher
5. Suhaee Abro as Rakshi / Torah’s & Palwasha’s Mother
6. Qazi Wajid as Baran Khan / Gulistan Khan’s Father
7. Hassan Noman as Bulbul
8. Abdullah Khan as Baru Kaka (Driver)
9. Noman Ali Siraj as Nasir Khan Jan

 

 

+ Plot

It focuses on Gulistan Khan, a cruel man who rules his family with an iron will and exercises significant influence in the area where he resides.

 

 

+ High Points
i – First of all, I would like to give a standing ovation to respected Noman Ijaz for his outstanding performance as Gulistan Khan. He gave his heart out to play the role of proud, strict father, husband and interest earning business man. This role was essential for the actor to be performed to its core or else all other roles would not have mattered to this TV drama series in such a way if this key role was not up to the mark. A very wise decision was made by giving this lead role to such a great actor, Noman Ijaz.

ii – Uzma Hassan is the actress who played the role of a sadistic, stubborn, jealous character as Banno. Her incredible hatred for Torah Khan for being different to her white complexion family and impure to their Pashto roots, to never let her husband even touch her for affection… showed the viewers, what happens hatred overcomes a person. Not only she could ever live a life of peace, she made sure that no one else had lived with it either — even if they are her blood siblings. Banno’s character was one of the most interestingly written, performed as effective as the as the script demanded it to be and the public, fans alike would always remember you in this iconic character that you played so AMAZINGLY! Bravo!

iii – Paras Masroor is no doubt a brilliant actor who played out his character as fiercely and cunningly on-screen. The writer is very intelligent to keep his best part for the finale. Torah Khan is a mixture of devilish yet sympathetic character who I at many times felt emphatic with his long hatred and anger for Gulistan Khan for not only snatched off Torah’s most beloved one from him but also the fact that Gulistan was never truly nice or respectable to Torah Khan as he was to his family members or even to Shireen.

However for his evil schemes, I understood well to what the writer wanted to show. Once the blood is spilled for any reason, it’s unstoppable. This is what made Torah Khan into, a blood thirsty man. His suppressed anger and undying long hatred is finally been revealed which make this scene as the most memorable one to watch.

Paras Masroor truly deserved the award for the Best Actor in Supporting Role in Sange Mar Mar. I would love to see your upcoming projects as well. Other Honorable Mentions: Sania Saeed, Kaif Ghaznavi, Beenish Raja and rest of the cast.

iv – Saife Hassan did an excellent job in its direction which made this TV drama series even more exciting to watch. I am already huge fan of his acting skills and this time he has surprised me with his debut direction. Truly, a great job!

v – Not only the story is very well written, its each and every episode is very intriguing to watch including the cliffhangers which really kept us viewers at the edge of our seats. For every character, their backstory is splendidly thought over. Impressive work!
vi – Even the subplots were very fascinating to watch.

vii – Loved the Bengali role (of being the mother of Torah Khan & Palwasha) played out by a beautiful actress, Suhaee Abro. She is a terrific actress and danced with such grace.

viii – Nice comic relief clumsy character, Sange-Mar-Mar had of Bulbul performed by Hassan Noman.

ix – I loved the concept and its premise which was focused on the lives of Northern areas (Pashto; Pathan) people, who stayed away from the city and their law & order.

 

 

+ Low Points

i – There were way too many flashbacks suddenly appearing, which confused its viewers of either being in the past or in the present or shown as an imaginative / daydreaming scenario?
ii – I have no issue with having an ambiguous end, in fact sometimes it works better than answering all questions; as long as it does not leave the audience disappointed or unsatisfied with it. But it did.

The major question remains, what was the final outcome of Shireen and Banno? Did they ever make peace with each other? Did they ever found peace & happiness in their respected lives?

The viewers may forgive the writer for ignoring Banno but not Shireen. From the very first episode we are looking at Shireen’s life which in later episodes takes an unjust turn when she is distrusted by her own brother and forced to marry in a decision. Then we know how much suffering she has to go through including unable to fulfill her one lost dream that she wanted to have since her childhood… My question still remains the same, why she was not given justice in the end?

Some people might defend this by claiming that this is how real life is, unjust … unfair. However, these people should also know that those projects which are based on true stories / events don’t carry 100% honesty. At least 20 to 30% story is fictionalized to give more a dramatic look than what actually happened in real life. This is a known fact which is taught to every writer. One cannot control his/her real life naturally but he/she could control the events that happen in a fictionalized one.

This TV drama series was not just about taking revenge or show the downfall of a once proud man who controlled other people lives as his say… although this was the main plot but the other subplots also included the unjust life of Shireen, perhaps her sacrifices for others will one day be paid off by giving her a satisfying reward in the end? Regrettably, this one MAJOR question left unanswered in the end.

 

 

+ Overall
Sang-e-Mar Mar is truly an Exceptional work ever produced from our Pakistani TV drama industry… a work of Art! One of the most impressive and finest!

 

 

Rate: 4.50 out of 5 stars