Over a couple of years, Ramazan viewing serials have become a norm. Especially after the super success of Suno Chanda (2018) followed by Chupke Chupke (2021); the craze of light-hearted, fun, entertaining Ramazan serials connect with the viewers big time. With the benchmark set so high, the attempt to make a better entertainer is bound to get judged, most likely with a magnifying glass. 2022 was no different as three prominent serials premiered this Ramazan. HUM TV’s Paristan had an edge as it brings back Arsalan Naseer and Aymen Saleem, the magical duo Hadi and Mishi from Chupke Chupke.
Let’s get to the point: does Paristan transport us to a different world? Well… the trailer had prepared us for what to expect, and Paristan does live up to those expectations.
The Premise
Paristan is the story of Pernia aka Pari (Aymen Saleem), a young bubbly girl who daydreams about her Mr. Perfect. She wants to live life to the fullest and fulfill all her dreams. She lives with her maternal uncle Safie (Safie Hasan), aunt Haseena (Javeria Saud), and cousin Ujala (Merub Ali). Unfortunately, things are difficult for Pari as Haseena isn’t too happy with her being part of the family.
Kamali (Ali Safina) lives in their neighborhood; an innocent guy, always ready to help. Safie’s sister Mehreen (Navin Waqar) is a temperamental diva, who doesn’t trust men, especially after her divorce. We are then introduced to Zubaida (Mira Sethi) a maid who is good at doing household work.
There’s a parallel track that features Arsam (Arsalan Naseer) dealing with the loss of his older brother and managing his kids. He is deeply affected by this tragedy and wants to relocate to his own house. His grandmother, played by Azra Mansoor refutes the decision but Arsam is desperate to shift. Amanullah (Mooroo) works as a servant at his place.
What Have We Liked So Far?
Paristan is a fun ride laced with several comic situations. Writer Samra Bukhari should be credited for a refreshing script. She succeeds in providing a relatable fun fest aimed to please the masses. Bukhari sprinkles the premise with unique characters that make the proceedings work for most parts.
A couple of sequences standout: Arsam and Pari are poles apart, hence their confrontations mostly in the middle of the road come across as adorable. The Gen-Z kids outshine Arsam each time with their cute and witty one-liners.
Keeping the inflation rate in the country in view, this angle is relatable and merged well with Haseena’s character. The split in Mehreen upon seeing a happy couple is played to perfection. But it’s the magical duo of Zubaida and Amanullah that bring the house down.
The Loopholes
A couple of sequences could have been curtailed, such as the Kamali and Aarzooji sequence, which looked forced. We’re also forced to ask numerous questions. Why is Ujala so eager to inquire about Arsam’s family? The track of Bubloo’s mother isn’t going anywhere. Why can’t we prepare a drama without the ‘cousin marriage’ ingredient? Yes! Haseena’s nephew Babar (Junaid Jamshaid Niazi) is head over heels in love with Ujala. Also, some of the sequences seem to have been directed halfheartedly. For instance, when Babar tries to convince Mehreen to remarry, or when Haseena’s panic attacks over little things and her conversation with her husband Safie doesn’t offer something conclusive.
There are certain logistical glitches as well. How is Pari seen wearing a new joda in almost every scene when she is solely dependent on the uncle? Ujala is cutting vegetables while wearing high heels in the kitchen, which doesn’t seem to happen in real life. It’s bizarre to see actors faking a cup of tea. If tea isn’t available on the sets, boiling water can give that effect. Moreover, in her introduction shot, Pari was wearing a pair of sneakers in the bus. Cut to the next scene, they suddenly transform into khussas.
The Performances
Starting off with the lead pair, Arsalan Naseer yet again shines bright and delivers a composed performance. He glides into his character effortlessly; he is in no hurry to overstep the boundary that works well with a comic play. Aymen Saleem gets a meaty part to showcase her talent and till now, she lends a lot of grace to her character. Her sequences with Arsam are fresh and charming. The next set of superlative performances come from Mira Sethi and Mooroo. Without mouthing many lines, they are incredibly expressive. It was a great idea to reprise their hit YouTube characters.
Merub and Junaid fit their parts well. Navin Waqar is a surprise package. It will be interesting to see how her character unfolds. Ali Safina leaves a strong impression in his sequences.
We have, however, seen better versions of the loud Punjabi mother but Haseena aka Javeria Saud’s act is a drawback in the enterprise.
Summing It Up So Far
If you relish a light comic entertainer all the way, chances are you will also lap up Paristan in the upcoming episodes. With some powerful acts, new avatars, and modifications, along with a refreshing plot, Paristan makes for a compelling watch.
