May is all about love, isn’t it?
Yet another love story has hit our TV-screens and fans are over the moon — because Imran Abbas and Neelam Muneer are collaborating for the first time on screen, in Geo TV’s intense love story — Ehraam e Junoon. The first episode of this much awaited show aired on Monday and left audiences with mixed feelings.
Treat for the audience: Imran & Neelam!
Seeing the dynamic duo together on screen has fans raving! Imran plays Shayan – a middle-class man who works as a pizza delivery boy and is the sole breadwinner of his family.
Although our charming hero falls a bit short of playing a convincing delivery boy based on his demeanour, he is fated to meet Shanzay, played by the gorgeous Neelam.
Shanzay, a stunning single lady from a well-established family who has turned down several proposals in order to find Mr. Perfect, has had a crush on Shayan since the first time she spotted him at an event.
One can’t forget Abbas’s opening shot here as he walks down the pathway looking like the dream man we all want. Our heroine is just as weak-kneed as us, and she on-purpose drops her keys just to get a few moments with him.
But our sakht launda Shayan – leaves her stunned and walks past her, indifferent to what has happened.
What does Shanzay do? She is smittens!
Ehraam e Junoon – A Story Where Different Worlds Collide
The first two episodes establish that both belong very different worlds and are battling their own demons.
Neelam ought to be applauded for portraying a stubborn and moody character in such a skillful manner. The sorrow in her eyes, the vengeance she seeks, and her admiration for Shayan are all spot on!
The background music also contributed to the feeling of love in the air, especially during the duo’s first meeting.
Twists & turns in Ehraam e Junoon
Writer Jahanzeb Qamar, who has written Kasa e Dil and Mera Rab Waris, has brought a love triangle on our screens this time, which may appear to be a typical love story, but has the potential to prove to be an emotional roller coaster ride.
Ehraam e Junoon is not just a rich girl meets poor boy. The story sees three different worlds connect as Sajeela – played by Nimra Khan – portrays a middle class girl.
To our collective distress, Shayan likes her despite her unkind demeanour.
The plot will take many twists and turns, but it has already hinted at what will happen next. We’re excited to see how the three will interact and grow during the show.
On the whole, the first two episodes were entertaining and well-executed, owing to director Syed Ramish Rizvi, who previously directed Zakham for Geo TV.
Despite the typical tale, the little nuances in the scenes are extremely well done; the bond Shayan enjoyed with his family captivated the viewers and are relatable for many. Burdened with commitments, he strives to be a great son and a brother.
Shayan’s sister Nadiya — played by Maira Khan – is like a breath of fresh air and a support system for him.
The first two episodes provide a relatively close look at a middle-class family and its troubles, while also demonstrating that being born into a wealthy family does not guarantee you everything, especially the love you seek.
Neelam Muneer as Shanzay is Innocent
Despite her dominating nature Shanzay’s aura has some innocence, especially when she interacts with servants, but unfortunately her makeup doesn’t compliment her acting, Neelam looks to mature and desperate for love.
On the upside, the second episode was filled with cute moments between Shanzay and Shayan, and delighted the audience once again.
Our highlight was seeing them fighting over “Pizza” – even though we had to ignore a small blunder as the delivery boy showed up with a single pizza box and in the next scene Shanzay was having a pizza party with two pizzas. Who knows, maybe she had one lying around?
Moreover, the second episode also FINALLY tells us why Shayan is so interested in Sajeela! (Drum roll) Apparently, they both got engaged somehow during their early childhood, as per the wishes of their parents, especially Sajeela’s father and Shayan’s Mamu!
Retrospectively, Shayan found out that Sajeela is no longer interested in him – but he doesn’t do anything about that. For the moment, Ehraam e Junoon flows at a good pace and appears to be a worthwhile watch for drama enthusiasts; nevertheless, we hope that it will not bore viewers by being too dragged.
