Home Blog Page 11

‘Tumharey Husn Kay Naam’ Leaves A Lasting Impression With Love, Sacrifices And Multifaceted Characters

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-

In a spellbinding last episode, ‘Tumharey Husn Kay Naam’ concluded as Salma and Sikander tied the knot, leaving the audience elated. The last episode was dictated by the simplicity and the nostalgic charm that was pronounced in the entirety of the drama. What stood out was that despite an evident conclusion that was to be followed, as viewers we were entirely immersed in the storyline, to see our favourite characters get their long-awaited happy ending.

Unwrapping the last episode:

Spoilers ahead!

The episode opens with Salma (Saba Qamar) getting ready for her big day with her daughter giving her a helping hand. How can one miss the grace, simplicity, and charisma of Saba Qamar in that scene? She donned a red bridal dress, nothing too extravagant, yet we could not take our eyes off Saba Qamar.

The episode unfolds as Salma and Sikander arrive at their wedding venue. The captured excitement and nervousness of the couple were so well depicted that one couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with emotion. We see the couple tying the knot in a simple ceremony.

Later, we also witness the reunion of Umar and Sarah, played by Haris Waheed and Maha Hasan, respectively. Sarah and Umar both give heartwarming speeches, as they express their happiness to see their parents’ union. Later, after Salma and Sikander overhear the conversation between the two, they decide that it’s best for Umar and Sarah to get married, disregarding what society has to say. We are glad to see Umar and Sarah reuniting instead of giving up on their love.

The recent episode subtly delivered several essential messages. It was a welcome change to witness Salma and Sikander’s wedding instead of leaving their love unrequited. This challenges the prevailing societal taboo against marriages involving older couples, especially ones celebrated by their children. Furthermore, it was enlightening to observe the message conveyed: parents shouldn’t burden their children with their bitterness and heartache, which can contaminate the child’s spirit. This was vividly portrayed in Umar’s situation who was deeply affected by his mother’s negative words about his father, resulting in a strained relationship between them. This depiction shows how such burdens can embitter a child’s heart and soul.

The poetic rendition of an old-school romance

A directorial project of Saqib Khan and penned by Sara Qayyum and Umera Ahmed, Tumharey Husn Kay Naam follows the life of Salma and Sikander. Tumharey Husn Kay Naam arrests you in its magical realm, taking you back in time to witness a love story that knows no bounds.  The drama aired on Green Entertainment and is an adaptation of Hakeem Nayyar Wasty’s novel Akhtar aur Salma, marking many firsts as Pakistan’s entertainment industry-leading names, Saba Qamar and Imran Abbas, joined hands for a project.

Salma and Sikander, portrayed by Saba Qamar and Imran Abbas, respectively, come from contrasting backgrounds and social classes. Their shared passion for art binds them together, along with an unfortunate incident threatening Sikander’s career. Set in 1993, the drama unfolds the college romance between the two and how societal standards force them to be apart. The two characters come from contrasting backgrounds. While Salma hails from a wealthy family and receives unwavering support from her father to pursue an arts degree, Sikander, from a middle-class background, sacrifices his medical studies to pursue art at the same college as Salma.

The story unravels with Salma and Sikander’s steadfast love culminating in their decision to get married. However, societal disparities lead to their drifting apart. Salma, compelled by her parents, weds Atif (portrayed by Asad Siddique), a cruel man who mistreats and abuses her. Similarly, Sikander, compelled by circumstances, moves on and marries. Decades later, their paths converge when their children, Umar and Sarah, form a friendship, reuniting the long-lost couple.

Imran Abbas and Saba Qamar’s on-screen chemistry

It’s hard to find adequate words to commend the sheer brilliance of Imran Abbas and Saba Qamar’s acting prowess. If only we had anticipated the sizzling and authentic chemistry these two actors would exude on-screen, as Pakistani drama fanatics, we would have rooted to bring the two together on-screen for years.

Individually, both excelled brilliantly, but together, they forged an unparalleled magic on-screen. Portraying two characters, each enduring their moments of turmoil and heartbreak, and expressing their pain was no easy feat—a task that Imran and Saba executed with sheer excellence.

Even the characters were so well-written that the developing romance seemed natural. The innocence and the raw nature of their love for each other, which was pure and untouched by the corruption of societal expectations, was perhaps what we needed to see on television. To take us back to the classic, old-school romance that knows no rivals.

The hard lessons

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Tumharey Husn Kay Naam made us cry along the way. A large part of the drama focused on the sombre realities of society. Seeing Salma’s journey was agonizing, to say the least. Instead of getting her married to the love of her life, her parents thought it was best to get married to a man who promised her stability and wealth. This mirrored the sad reality of society, where we prioritize social status over a person’s nature.

Multifaceted characters

The drama also successfully depicted the sacrifices that life demands, and the makers ensured that they captured the realities of life to its finest. The characters, instead of being black or white, were grey. Even Salma’s father, who was a beloved character in the first few episodes, due to being a supportive father to his daughter, did not take his daughter’s side and make her marry a man for his social status. Later, his guilt took over as he progressively advocated for his daughter, urging her to get a divorce. Such are the multifaceted characters that exist in real life, which are instead replaced by one-dimensional characters on-screen.

All in all, Tumharey Husn Kay Naam is worth tuning in. The vibe stays true to a timeless romantic story, and nostalgic charm, wrapped in a period play, for the most part. The drama gracefully unravels, staying consistent with the pace it began with. The cast, was, of course, cherry on the top, who essayed their roles to perfection and made the drama remarkable.

2023’s Fab 10: Leading Ladies Who Owned The Screen and Stole Our Hearts

By
Kehkashan Bukhari
-

In 2023, our TV screens were on fire with some seriously awesome narratives, and a big shout-out goes to the incredible actors who made it all happen. Let’s give it up for the leading ladies who absolutely owned the drama scene this year. These talented queens didn’t just play characters; they became them, hitting us right in the feels with performances that were nothing short of iconic. From fierce independence to vulnerable complexity, they nailed it all.

From Villain to Queen in Kabuli Pulao: Sabeena Farooq nailed it as Barbeena

Sabeena Farooq rocked the screen in Green Entertainment’s ‘Kabuli Pulao‘ after crushing it as Haya in ‘Tere Bin’. Playing Barbeena, this Afghan powerhouse stole the spotlight with her killer vibes. Switching from a villain to a queen, Sabeena’s grace and killer dialogues had us all hooked. The chemistry between Haji Sahab and Barbeena was on fire, especially in that epic moment when a cop asked her, Haji Sahab Ne Tumhe Kitne Main Khareeda? She threw her arms wide open, measuring love, respect, and all that jazz, saying, Itna Pyar, Itni Muhabbat, Itni Izzat , Itni Qurbani or Itni Mushkil Say. Sabeena nailed it and snagged a prime spot in our hearts.

Ramsha Khan as Tabassum: Our Girl-next-door Hero in Jannat Say Agay

In a standout performance this year, the audience was introduced to Tabassum in Geo TV’s ‘Jannat Say Agay’, an ordinary yet dreamy middle-class girl who captivated viewers with her relatability. Intrigued by the allure of the TV screen, Tabassum became a connection point for audiences everywhere. She’s all of us, fascinated by the glam but dealing with real-life struggles. Ramsha Khan nails it, making us cry for Tabassum’s ups and downs. Her journey’s a bumpy ride, teaching us that money isn’t the fix-all solution. A lesson in valuing what truly matters – Tabassum’s our girl-next-door hero.

Hadiqa Kiani Rocks as Bakhtain in Hadsa – A Powerful On-screen Triumph

Hadiqa Kiani as Bakhtain in Geo TV’s ‘Hadsa‘ is unmissable. The storyline hits hard with its sensitivity, and Kiani’s on-screen grace is next level. Bakhtain’s journey, standing strong after facing challenges as a rape survivor, is not just a show—it’s a beacon of hope for women dealing with their own battles. Kiani owns it, delivering a powerful performance that leaves a lasting impact.

Saba Qamar’s Comeback: Rania’s Taxi Ride Stole Our Hearts in Sar e Raah

The TV scene saw the incredible return of Saba Qamar in ARY Digital’s ‘Sar e Raah‘ this year. While the drama already buzzed for addressing critical social issues, it was the phenomenal portrayal of Rania – a taxi driver – by Saba Qamar that stole viewers’ hearts. Qamar breathed life into the narrative, especially in the memorable encounter where she demanded lower charges from a male passenger. In the role of Rania, Qamar emerged as the ultimate female hero, making her mark in the hearts of the audience.

The Ultimate Warrior on Screen: Sajal Ali Slays as Aliya Agha in Kuch Ankahi

Sajal Ali owned the screen as the strong and independent Aliya Agha in ARY’s ‘Kuch Ankahi‘. Our star girl brought this character to life like a boss, and let’s be real, who else could do it better? The storyline echoed the voices of middle-class families and working women, tackling societal pressures and compromises. Sajal, with her grace and magic, didn’t give us a moment to blink. From killer wardrobes to powerful dialogues, she connected on so many levels. Aliya was a tough cookie, a warrior, and Sajal nailed it!

A Beauty with Brains: Yumna Zaidi Rules as Meerab in Tere Bin

Yumna Zaidi aced as Meerab in Geo TV’s ‘Tere Bin’  – a character that wouldn’t bend against injustice. And who handled her? None other than Wahaj Ali as Murtasim. Yumna, from wardrobe to dialogues, was downright marvellous, especially in that iconic pool scene. The master of her craft, Yumna slayed with subtle expressions, leaving us all in awe. Here’s hoping for a Season 2. Meerab was the ultimate combo of beauty with brains.

From Baby Baji to Bravo Mom and Wife: Aina Asif Shines Bright in May Ri

Aina Asif, the rising star from Baby Baji, totally rocked it as Ainee in ARY Digital’s ‘Mayi Ri‘ this year. In a drama packed with a killer storyline and an all-star cast, Ainaa pulled off the unexpected and shone brightly. The viewers loved the chemistry between Ainee and Fakhir, and the storyline hit home, making us all realize the sensitivity of issues like child marriage and its consequences. Our girl played the roles of a mother and a wife like an absolute champ.

Hania Amir Shines as Maheer in Mujhe Pyar Hua Tha

This year, Hania Amir stole hearts as Maheer in ‘Mujhe Pyar Hua Tha‘. The Humsafar star owned the character, fighting for love, grappling with betrayal, and eventually finding it in her cousin-turned-friend, Saad, played by Wahaj Ali. The on-screen chemistry between Hania and Wahaj became the talk of the town, especially in the last episode. Poor Saad didn’t get the “I love you too,” but Maheer’s smile and the playful response added a cute twist, making it a standout moment in their unique love story.

Rishtina – A Tough Cookie in Nauroz: An iconic one of Mawra Hussain

In a refreshing entry to the drama scene, Mawra Hussain graced Green Entertainment’s Nauroz as the lead character, Rashtina. The drama’s unique storyline put Rashtina in the spotlight, depicting the challenging life of a disowned child. Our girl Mawra fearlessly navigated through the hurdles, from sleeping on the road to enduring abuse and even facing kidnapping. Yet, she stood tall, dedicating herself to societal betterment through various campaigns. Mawra’s charm sprinkled magic on this unforgettable journey. Her confident portrayal, spot-on dialogue delivery, and immediate response to every twist and turn made us all cheer for our brave Rashtina.

Sehar Khan’s Charm Lights Up Fairy Tale: Umeed’s Laughter Stayed in Our Heart

Seher Khan lit up our screens and our hearts in Hum TV’s ‘Fairy Tale’. Even though the drama ended, Umeed Farjad, portrayed by Sehar Khan, became a cherished part of our lives. Remembered for her iconic role as Mahapara in Geo TV’s ‘Rung Mehal‘, Khan soared to new heights of fame with this drama. From navigating obstacles to finding the love of her life, Umeed taught us how to respond to heavy moments with humor, tackle situations head-on, and make every moment precious and memorable. Sehar was the perfect fit for this character; her screen presence and seamless adaptation made it feel like she was born to play the role.

Hats off to these actresses for making 2023 a year we won’t forget, leaving us all hooked and emotionally invested in the magic they brought to our screens.


10 Male Performances That Stood Out In 2023

By
Kasim Bilal
-

2023 was yet another great year for television with stellar performances across the board. Among the guys, we got to see more of our usual favourites, while recent breakout stars got to further cement their might on the small screen.

This year also saw the return of some veteran actors stretching their thespian muscles and showing us how it’s done. So, coming up with a list of ten performances was quite the task. Nonetheless, here’s a list of ten male performances that stood out in 2023.

Wahaj Ali – Tere Bin

Wahaj Ali as Murtasim Shahnawaz Khan in ‘Tere Bin‘ was a career-defining role. This role rightfully propelled Wahaj to the level of fame he is at right now and he is riding that wave still. His chemistry with co-star Yumna Zaidi was also a huge factor in this success with fangirls going gaga over the pairing and particularly loving Ali in this avatar.

Despite an online backlash and calls for boycott, one thing is for certain and that is audiences’ love for Murtasim Khan, all thanks to Wahaj’s stellar work.

Bilal Abbas – Kuch Ankahi

The recipient of numerous awards, Bilal Abbas is no stranger when it comes to being a highly acclaimed actor. Abbas can deliver a great performance even in his sleep. Bilal as Salman in ‘Kuch Ankahi‘ was him doing what he does best and that’s playing a romantic lead.

Audiences rejoiced when the show concluded with Sajal Aly’s Aaliya ending up with Salman and all credit for that goes to Bilal and his charming portrayal in the role.

Hamza Sohail – Fairy Tale

Hamza Sohail already proved himself in the first season of ‘Fairy Tale’ but he’s even better in this second iteration. Comedy is always said to be harder than dramatic acting and Sohail has once again nailed the balance as Farjaad. The romance, banter, and friendship, he plays every element of Farjaad and Umeed’s relationship to perfection and we adore him for it.

Samar Abbas – Mayi Ri

Samar Abbas as Fakhir in ‘Mayi Ri’ probably had the most compelling arcs in television this year. Abbas, in his first major acting role, was asked to do so much in a show that tackled the issue of child marriages. From a careless teenager to a responsible young man, Samar played his character’s arc with the finesse of a seasoned professional.

We cannot wait to see what the newcomer does next.

Sheheryar Munawar – Kuch Ankahi

Sheheryar Munawar as Asfar was incredible in ‘Kuch Ankahi‘. The heartthrob oozed charisma in his latest role. Not to say Asfar didn’t have more to offer, the role was layered with a sad backstory which gave Munawar a lot to play with.

While countless fans rejoiced at Aaliya ending up with Salman, many were sad to see Asfar left alone in the end which was a testament to Sheheryar’s captivating performance.

Mohammed Ehteshamuddin – Kabli Pulao

Ehteshamuddin played one end of an unconventional love story in ‘Kabli Pulao’ and melted all our hearts. His Haji Mushtaq, a humble and God-fearing man delighted audiences when he ends up smitten by Barbeena, a girl significantly younger than him.

Ehteshamuddin’s portrayal of the character was respectful, understanding and endearing. While the actor is mostly known for his directorial work, we would love to see more of him as an actor going forward.

Bilal Ashraf – Yunhi

Bilal Ashraf — who made his television drama debut this year in ‘Yunhi‘ — gave us a fresh male lead in a sea of toxic masculinity being the only character trait left for male characters. His Dr. Dawood Basharat is a soft-spoken and loving man albeit silent at times. Bilal played the character’s subtleties to perfection and built a beautiful love story with Maya Ali’s Kim.

It was great to see Ashraf shine in a role where his sex appeal wasn’t the defining character trait and he got to show off his acting chops.

Ameer Gilani – Neem

Ameer Gilani was as incredible as Ashhad in ‘Neem‘. Even just beside his love story with Mawra’s Zimal, Gilani’s character goes on quite the journey. Ameer portrayed the very timely struggle of wanting to move abroad to help fix one’s financial status. Ashhad sees a lot of ups and downs and Gilani played every beat of his arc perfectly.

The show also tackled the issue of infertility and started a dialogue to promote adoption and Ameer had a pivotal and heartfelt role to play in that storyline.

Talha Chahour – Jannat Se Aagay

Chahour played Ramsha Khan’s fiance Farooq in ‘Jannat Se Aagay‘. He follows every desire of his fiance’s regardless of if it’s fair or not. Farooq is also a common man who is unemployed and struggling to make ends meet.

Chahour played all these beats with subtlety and gave audiences an insight into the issues of an everyday man who fails to realize the bad influence his fiance is on him.

Farhan Saeed — Jhok Sarkar

Farhan Saeed stepped into an entirely new avatar this year in ‘Jhok Sarkar‘. ASP Arsalan is Saeed’s entry into the cop universe, an idealistic cop fighting for justice in the town of Jhok Siyal. While the show itself got some criticism for it’s writing, audiences were in love with Farhan’s performance.

It was also a testament to his performance and chemistry with Hiba Bukhari’s Sassi that audiences were heartbroken at the character’s tragic demise in the finale.

This year saw a lot of dynamic performances and we saw a refreshing change of pace from the usual “angry young man” rampant display of toxic masculinity, with 4-dimensional and unconventional characters getting the spotlight.

What was your favourite male performance from the year? Share in the comments down below.

Saim Sadiq Delves Into The Challenges Of Filmmaking In Pakistan

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-

‘Joyland‘’s film director and co-writer Saim Sadiq recently appeared in the episode of The Pakistan Experience podcast, hosted by Shehzad Gias Sheikh. The talented filmmaker finished his MFA at Columbia University, School of Arts and went on to direct award-winning films including ‘Joyland‘ and his short film ‘Darling‘.

In the interview, Saim talked about filmmaking, casting, screenwriting and the process of creating his film ‘Joyland‘.

Pakistan’s current film business landscape

Talking about the film business and the environment in Pakistan, he talked about the plight of producers and filmmakers who struggle to retrieve the money invested despite the hard work put in by the entire team.

“In Pakistan, we have less than 100 theatres. It’s not a great place to do business until or unless you make a ‘Maula Jatt’ but then again you need to have the kind of resources that ‘Maula Jatt’ did.”

We further went on to comment that sometimes films starring big actors also fail to recover the money invested and earn profits.

“Even the big Humayun Saeed films don’t make a lot of money.”

In addition, Saim also went on to discuss how the recent change in technology has caused a shift in viewership and how people watch films on digital platforms. He highlighted this shifting landscape of audience preferences by comparing Kamli and Zindagi Tamasha, two recent releases by Sarmad Khoosat. He emphasized that while Kamli had a theatrical release and Zindagi Tamasha did not, the latter’s digital viewership surpassed Kamli’s significantly. Saim expressed how times are evolving rapidly, acknowledging the enduring fascination with theatrical releases despite the changing dynamics of viewership.

Saim’s process of making Joyland

Saim openly talked about his struggles in releasing and making his film Joyland. He optimistically dealt with all the criticism and rejection that came his way, striving to improve the film’s script by incorporating the feedback he got. He admitted that initially, his “characters would talk the same way he did” and were two-dimensional however he worked on his mistakes and penned down better drafts.

Saim also admitted his struggles with financing his film:

“For seven years, we received no funding until it eventually came. You need to embrace the struggle and avoid expecting too much before the right time arrives.”

Lastly, when asked about the success of Darling, the predecessor to Joyland, in film festivals, Saim shared how despite applying to several Swedish and French funds, the short film didn’t immediately aid in securing funding. He humorously recalled his numerous applications to Sundance, stating, “I applied to Sundance many times.” Later, when the film screened at Sundance, he humorously joked on stage, “Well, my script was rejected three times from their lab. Now I’m here.”

It’s commendable how Saim Sadiq has come a long way by never failing to give up and having an optimistic outlook towards all the rejections he has faced over the years. Our country needs filmmakers like Saim Sadiq who are so dedicated to their craft and have the skill and education alongside talent to produce something that’s outside the box.33

‘Bandish 2’ Finale: Supernatural Closure, Mystical Rescues, And Zainab Qayyum’s Spellbinding Performance

By
Kehkashan Bukhari
-

ARY’s supernatural saga, ‘Bandish season 2‘, reached its gripping conclusion, bringing closure for Humaira’s family, skillfully portrayed by Sania Saeed. However, the narrative took a darker turn for Farhana, played by the talented Zainab Qayyum. The climactic resolution weaved a tapestry of redemption for Manahil (Areej Mohuyyuddin) and Ahmer (Shuja Asad), culminating in their impending marriage. True to its message, ‘Bandish‘ reiterated the age-old truth that wrongdoers inevitably pay the price for their evil actions, whether through black magic or sinister desires. While horror enthusiasts might feel a twinge of disappointment due to the absence of spooky elements, one can’t help but wonder if a future season will rise with a superior script and a more enthralling storyline.

Farhana’s Last Spell: Ahmer’s Dramatic Rescue in the ‘Bandish’ Grand Finale

The climactic episode unfolded with Farhana, driven by an insatiable desire to eliminate Sameer – played by Affan Waheed and claim his property. Guided by the Baba Saeen – played by Salahuddin Tunio, Farhana embarked on a perilous journey, warned to exercise utmost caution during her spell-casting ritual. The stakes were high, with any unwanted witness threatening to reverse the spell’s intended outcome, and the consequences proved potentially fatal for Farhana. However, in a surprising twist, Ahmer – played by Shuja Asad, intervened at the crucial moment, thwarting Farhana’s sinister plan and rescuing Manahil, who was trapped in Farhana’s clutches. The preceding episode had left viewers in suspense, with no indication of Ahmer’s impending heroics. The unexpected rescue raised questions about Ahmer’s involvement, especially given Sameer’s earlier concerns about Manahil’s well-being and her impending marriage to Ammar, played by Hammad Farooqui. Ahmer’s unanticipated and daring entrance, breaking through walls without even knocking, added an element of intrigue and confusion, why did our boy do this instead of Sameer?

Zainab Qayyum: Commanding the Mystical Realm in ‘Bandish 2’

Zainab Qayyum’s portrayal of the formidable magician Farhana stole the spotlight her compelling performance left audiences fearing Farhana’s malevolent plans. Throughout the journey, Qayyum’s excellence shone, as Farhana’s character evolved from a greedy human into a dangerous witch from reconciling with Humaira’s family to fulfilling Baba Saeen’s demands, Farhana’s transformation showcased Qayyum’s acting prowess.

In the finale, Farhana found herself confined to the asylum, portrayed with powerful and captivating emotion by Zainab Qayyum. Grievous over her family, fueled by anger towards Humaira and plagued by the consequences of a misfired spell, Farhana’s descent into madness was a testament to Qayyum’s talent. Farhana’s simple yet relatable body language and wardrobe style perfectly embodied the world of witchcraft and unforgettable spell-casting scenes left an indelible mark. In the end, Zainab Qayyum not only won hearts but also emerged as the undisputed magician of ‘Bandish‘.

The Phone Call and Ammar’s Twist of Fate

When Sameer learned about Ammar’s sudden demise, he raced to the hospital to confirm the news. Amid this emotional storm, he received a call from a friend who awkwardly uttered, ‘Tu Tension Nahi Lay’— an awkward consoling response that felt misplaced given the gravity of the situation.

Despite the ups and downs of ‘Bandish Season 2′, a roller coaster weaving family drama and black magic, the show concluded with poignant messages. One standout moment was when Humaira extended forgiveness to her maid for getting entangled with Farhana. It harked back to Season 1, reminiscent of Madiha’s (Marina Khan) forgiving embrace of Sandal (Zainab Ahmed) despite all the chaos stirred by her sister Sumbul (Farah Shah). While we missed the chills and thrills of horror this season, fingers crossed for a spookier delight in the next one!”

Breaking Stereotypes: Zara Noor Abbas And Danyal Zafar Bring A Refreshing Take In ‘Standup Girl’

By
Warshma Chughtai
-

In the ever-evolving landscape of Pakistani entertainment, Green Entertainment is once again set to break the mould with its upcoming drama series ‘Standup Girl’, starring the dynamic duo Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui and Danyal Zafar. Let’s dive into the details and explore what makes this show a breath of fresh air in the world of television dramas.

A Stellar Cast

‘Standup Girl’ boasts an impressive lineup of seasoned actors, including Sohail Ahmad, Saba Faisal, Adnan Shah Tipu, Farah Tufail, Saqib Sameer, Maira Khan, and, of course, the lead pair Zara Noor Abbas and Danyal Zafar. The ensemble promises a powerhouse of performances, setting the stage for an engaging narrative.

A Unique Pairing

Zara Noor Abbas and Danyal Zafar’s on-screen chemistry adds an extra layer of excitement. Zara was last seen in ‘Jhoom’ earlier this year and Danyal making his mark in the web series ‘Barwan Khiladi’ and Ramadan serials ‘Tanaa Banaa’, the duo’s collaboration promises to be a treat for viewers.

Creative Minds At Helm

Directed by the acclaimed Kashif Nisar, known for his work on ‘Ranjha Ranjha Kardi’, and penned by the talented duo Awais Ahmad and Adeel Afzal. The director-writer duo are collaborating again after Green Entertainment’s ‘Jeevan Nagar’. The drama which comes with a promise of a gripping storyline and compelling characters, is produced by Qaiser Ali.

The Plot Unveiled

‘Standup Girl’ unfolds a narrative that breaks away from conventional television tropes. Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui portrays a young woman grappling with an identity crisis after returning to Lahore from abroad. Navigating the complexities of a desi-joint family, she embarks on a journey to challenge stereotypes and pursue her dream of becoming a stand-up comedian. On the other hand, Danyal Zafar steps into the shoes of a struggling rapper frustrated by his stagnant career. The intersection of their paths promises an intriguing storyline filled with twists and turns.

What sets ‘Standup Girl apart is its departure from the typical saas-bahu sagas and love triangles that dominate the television landscape. Green Entertainment continues its trend of bringing diverse and relatable stories to the screen, catering to a wide audience. The show offers a refreshing take on the challenges faced by the younger generation, making it a must-watch for those seeking something different.

‘Standup Girl’ is set to premiere on 21st December at 8 pm, promising an entertaining and thought-provoking journey into the lives of its vibrant characters. In a television landscape filled with the usual, ‘Standup Girl’” stands as a beacon of innovation and promises a delightful escape into a world where laughter, struggles, and unique stories take centre stage. Green Entertainment continues to redefine the narrative, and we can’t wait to see what this groundbreaking series has in store for us.

Ayeza Khan Leaves Audience Impressed With Her Recent Performance In ‘Mein’

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-

ARY Digital’s drama serial ‘Mein‘ refused to succumb to any criticism that came its way and now with nineteen episodes already in, the drama is not only doing well in terms of ratings but has slowly but assuredly established its popularity, gaining praise from the audience.

Among the key reasons why ‘Mein‘ stands tall, among the dramas currently on air, is of course owing to its talented and brilliant cast. Ayeza Khan, who is playing the role of the lead protagonist, Mubashira Jaffir has left the audience dazzled with her acting skills, in the previous few episodes, and has left no stone unturned when it comes to her performance.

The character

Ayeza Khan essays the character of Mubashira, an arrogant, wealthy woman, who is self-centred and has a stubborn nature. She refuses to surrender and clings firmly to her ego. Mein orbits around Mubashira and her journey of overcoming heartbreak and her battle against her ego after she is divorced by her husband at a party, celebrating their second wedding anniversary.

The story follows the character evolution of Mubashira as she marries her family friend, Zaid. Her ego and fits of rage come in between as she attempts to mend her relationships.

Not your typical damsel in distress

The last two episodes were pivotal in establishing the new plot twist and taking the story forward. Panick-stricken and petrified, Mubashira agrees to get Zaid married to the love of his life to stop him from divorcing her. Not only does she agree to the marriage but she also overlooks all the arrangements and convinces her father-in-law for the union. What’s more, is that Mubashira agrees to give in to Aira’s (Zaid’s second wife) demands.

On the surface, this plot might seem very regressive, however, the drama’s execution coupled with Ayeza’s acting skills make it engaging to watch. While Mubashira might have agreed to give in to Zaid’s wish, by no means has her character given up on her goals. Also, unlike most of the female protagonists, we see Mubashira is not someone who doesn’t cry over her misery but instead tries to take matters into her own hands.

The well-executed scene with the therapist

The much-raved-about scene, in which Ayeza calls her psychiatrist and urgently schedules an appointment, left fans in awe of her performance while evoking sympathy towards her character among the audience.

In that scene, Ayeza ate and left no crumbs. The actress portrayed her character’s contradictory emotions with so much elegance and conviction that we could not help but be fully invested with her character Mubashira. While at one moment she realized how defeated and helpless she felt, we could also see that Mubashira still believed somewhere that she could change the circumstances. What further melted our hearts was seeing Mubashira begging her psychiatrist for medicines that would aid her in sleeping and calming down.

Ayeza’s body language, with shivering hands and quivering expressions, and her excellent dialogue delivery, alongside her styling that made her look stunning and complimented her character, certainly won the hearts of the audience. With a new plot twist, we eagerly wait to see how ‘Mein‘ unfolds in future episodes.

‘Mannat Murad’: A Manipulative Story Masquerading As Wholesome Entertainer

By
Ifrah Butt
-

In a time and society when we need strong female characters on television, we have Pakistani dramas where women are enemies of other women. We have dramas with manipulative propaganda that double as family entertainers in the name of social comedies. We’re referring strongly to ‘Mannat Muraad’ on Geo Entertainment here. A drama, putting across complicated relationship dynamics shared between a mother, her son and his wife. While the drama has failed to represent generational trauma in a nuanced manner it has become increasingly inclined towards comic effect, which we see as problematic, in a society, already struggling with such issues in an average household.

Razia Sultana- A problematic Mother

Razia Sultana, Muraad’s mother’s controlling nature was made evident from the very first episode when she was seen creating a hue and cry over the boy wearing perfume to attract girls. Despite having four daughters, Razia Sultana harbours misogynistic views about every other woman who even dares talk to her son. Muraad seems like a consolation prize to Razia Sultana to whom she clings for the sake of dear life. And with each passing episode, the stronghold that Razia Sultana has on Muraad seems to become a chokehold for him and a noose around his relationship with Mannat. Without a doubt, Razia Sultana is a grim and dark representation of the quintessential toxic mother with a penchant for authority and emotional blackmail.

Muraad- A Confused And Spineless Character

Even though Razia Sultana is a problematic and toxic character, she is at least strong enough to hold her ground. But Muraad… this one is a confused and spineless character. As the man of the house, Muraad needs to be strong as he carries the responsibility of his entire family, alongside a married sister. And yet, this guy is incapable of taking a decision for himself and his wife. He leaves his house because his mother forbids him to visit his in-laws and bring his In the latest episode, when Muraad chooses to escape from his room to avoid Mannat, the guy walks over to his mother’s room, like a baby. That is simply not how men, especially the ones who are married, ought to act.

The Problematic Narrative

We’re in times where woman characters on television need to be strong and supportive of each other. With such a strong star cast, if ‘Mannat Muraad had a stronger and more positive plot, it would have garnered more support from the audience. Right now, the drama comes across not only as toxic but unnecessarily loud and oppressive. Mannat was shown as a progressive woman, one who took a stand against workplace harassment and yet now, she is made to suffer because of the dirty politics of her mother-in-law.

For Mannat and Muraad, the problem is not with the acting of the actors playing certain characters in the drama; it is with the narrative itself. Mannat Muraad has a problematic plot that is laced with horrific, ill-conceived plots. Razia Sultana is outright sadistic, deriving pleasure in showing Mannat down at every chance she gets, and it’s only been three days to the wedding.

Hasnain Lehri Surprises Loujain Adada With Grand Proposal On Netflix’s ‘Dubai Bling’ Finale

By
Zainab Mossadiq
-

If you still haven’t tuned in to watch Netflix’s reality show ‘Dubai Bling‘, Pakistani model Hasnain Lehri just gives you a reason. Making his debut in the second season of the show, Hasnain Lehri brings his suave charm, effortlessly carrying himself in the series.

If you are wondering what Pakistan’s top model is doing in a Dubai-based reality show, look no further for we have got the answer. Hasnain is currently dating Loujain Adada a.k.a LJ, who is one of the key personalities featured in the show.

Hasnain makes his debut in episode seven of the show when he comes to Dubai to surprise LJ before her performance in Dubai.

The couple revealed that they had been in a long-distance relationship for a while. Hasnain added that he reached out to Loujain when he texted her for the first time. Eventually, they started talking and Hasnain came to Dubai, where he met her.

The grand proposal

Dubai Bling maintained its splendour and grandeur in the second season with a finale that was grand by all means.

The show’s second season came to an end with a heartwarming moment when Hasnain surprised Loujain by proposing to her in front of all their friends. His proposal was both sweet and thoughtful, adding to its beauty was Hasnain’s heartfelt speech where he referred to Loujain as his dream girl. Ending on a suspenseful note, the show left the audience hanging, eagerly awaiting Loujain’s response to the proposal.

Who is Loujain Adada?

Loujain Adada is the widow of the late Saudi millionaire Walid Ahmed Juffali. LJ debuted as a television host for MTV Lebanon’s music program called Energy Spin Magazine at the age of 21. She also went to do modelling jobs over the years. She was 21 years old when she married her spouse, who was 57 at the time. Unfortunately, Walid passed away from cancer at the age of 61, leaving behind two children from their marriage. Since then, Loujain has established Dubai as her residence with her two daughters. She recently became a part of the cast of the Netflix reality series Dubai Bling.

The ‘fairytale’ love story

The couple made their relationship official, more than a year back, when Hasnain Lehri posted an intimate picture with the Dubai Bling star with the caption: “I thought fairytales would never come true until I met my princes.”

Although Loujain Adada did not post on her Instagram feed, she commented on Hasnain’s post: My heart… H fairytales do come true.”

Talk about memorable debuts and Hasnain Lehri has given you just that. The model stood out in the two episodes in which he debuted. We wish the couple all the best for their future and hope to catch a glimpse of them together very soon.

Omer Nadeem Is “Humbled And Honoured” By Sonu Nigam’s Response To Plagiarism Accusations

By
Kasim Bilal
-

Last week, singer Omer Nadeem took to Instagram and called out Sonu Nigam and company for blatantly plagiarizing his song Aye Khuda for their song Sun Zara. The Instagram post gained a lot of traction, with many coming to show support for Nadeem and tagging Nigam to hold him accountable.

The most recent development in this story, however, is that Sonu Nigam ended up responding to Omer Nadeem’s accusations under the latter’s post. Since then, Nadeem has shared this exchange on Instagram in a new post.

Sonu Nigam’s Response

Nigam started his comments by absolving himself of plagiarizing and said, “Just so you all know, I have nothing to do with this. I requested to do the song by KRK who’s my neighbour in Dubai.”

He also added, “If I had heard Omer’s version, I would have never sung it.”

Sonu apologized and even went as far as saying that Nadeem sang it better than he did. That’s high praise coming from an icon like him.

Nigam’s response also makes it seem like he agreed to do the song merely out of courteousness and as a favour for his neighbour Kamaal R. Khan, who is notorious for his YouTube reviews and causing controversies. Khan appears in the music video and is also credited for the lyrics, lyrics which were stolen from Nadeem’s Aye Khuda.

Omer also took a dig at him without outright naming the man, clearly acknowledging KRK as the main culprit behind the plagiarism. The two singers, however, had nothing but praise and admiration for each other’s work during the entire exchange.

This whole controversy gave us this heartwarming conversation. However, comments under Nadeem’s post are still not satisfied, demanding legal action or for Nadeem to be financially compensated for his work. But it seems that Omer is content with Nigam’s apology. 

Nonetheless, it’s refreshing to see Sonu Nigam being a class act, acknowledging Nadeem’s original work, and apologizing for the plagiarism. We can only hope that going forward, our artists get the credit they deserve if and when their work is used in any Indian media. Online backlash shouldn’t always be needed for our artists to get the recognition they deserve.

1...101112...299Page 11 of 299