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Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha Ends on A Happy Note; Do the Fans Feel the Same?

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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MPHT ending

With a melodious soundtrack, some romantic, some (too) melodramatic moments, Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha surpassed expectations as it not only garnered millions of views but also trended in the country.  

A production by Fahad Mustafa and Dr. Ali Kazmi under Big Bang Entertainment, ARY Digital’s Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha grew to popularity for its dynamic casting of the lead trio of Wahaj Ali, Hania Aamir, and Zaviyar Nauman. The starring Wahaj Ali and Hania Aamir, both of whom have an undeniable strong fan base, alongside the integration of one of nation’ biggest hit singles Kahani Suno by Kaifi Khalil as its original soundtrack, the makers did a job well done to create significant buzz around the drama.  

Th efforts did not go to vain as the first episode of Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha has 45 milllion views on YouTube, as of now. Seven months down the line and with thirty-two episodes in, Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha continued to enjoy its popularity with a few bumps in the road.  

Before we dissect the reason for what made the drama stand on the pedestal it is now, let’s delve into the last episode.  

Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha wraps on a high note

The last episode begins with a banger as fans finally see the much-awaited scene where Maheer finds her voice and courage to refuse Areeb. Saad also takes a stand for his wife as he receives his bail.  

An elated audience couldn’t be more grateful to see things heading towards a conclusion but, alas, their happiness did not last long and the drama headed towards an anticlimax.  

Instead of seeing some Saad-Maheer scenes on-screen, the last episode was dedicated to Areeb, his sulkiness, and his path to redemption.  

The only saving grace was the last few minutes of the episode where the viewers saw some awe-worthy moments of their favourite couple, as they sat together relishing their time together with each other. The cute banter followed by the declaration of his love by Saad had the audience thrilled.  

However, we could not help but wish to see Maheer confessing her feelings to Saad as well, after all the poor guy deserved that at least.  

Nevertheless, the drama is done and dusted, concluding on a scene we hoped to see a few episodes early.  

Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha: Another run-of-the-mill story or something more?  

Written by Sidra Imran and directed by Badar Mehmood, the drama follows the story of a girl Maheer (Hania Aamir) who is a free spirit. Her parents aim for her to live a comfortable luxurious life. We are also introduced to the character of Saad (Wahaj Ali) who is Maheer’s cousin and is in love with him.  

At a friend’s engagement Maheer is introduced to Areeb (Zaviyar Nauman Ijaz) who falls for her. The story progresses as Maheer and Areeb develop feelings for each other and eventually decide to marry. However, at the wedding day Areeb’s father has a heart attack and due to confusion and anarchy that follows after Abeer doesn’t show up, Maheer is married off to Saad. 

Following the radical shift in Maheer and Saad’s life, Saad spares no effort to please Maheer and to make her comfortable in her new home and life. However, problems continue to unfold as Saad fails to catch a breath after Areeb returns in Maheer’s life.  

The saga continues as misery befalls Saad and Maheer refuses to accept him as her husband. The story goes around in a circle, agitating the viewers who wait to see a turn of events in the favour of Saad.  

In addition, we have seen this plot countless times integrated in our narratives where the bride or groom are married to a different person, to safe face, when their partner cannot make it to the wedding due to some confounding confusion created in the drama. This addition to create a plot twist has become tiring to see for most viewers.  

Saad: The destitute figure of Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha 

The character of Wahaj Ali as Saad is portrayed to be a spineless character who is hopelessly in love with his cousin, and in his attempts to please her, he forgets that he has other duties and responsibilities.  

Furthermore, essaying Saad as a defeated man who can never catch a break as misery befalls him, whether it is emotional or financial, creates a frustrated experience for the viewer who wish to see Saad fight his problems. Instead, he replaces the stereotypical female protagonist in our dramas who does not voice her opinions.  

That being said, we also have to mention that Wahaj Ali did an impeccable job in playing his role, as he was able to deliver the emotions of Saad eloquently on screen and his body language reflected Saad’s character.  

Notable performances: 

Perhaps the saving grace of the drama was its cast. Firstly, audience appreciated Hania Aamir and Zaviyar Nauman’s on-screen chemistry in the initial episodes, especially after watching them together on-screen in Sang-e-Mah.  

Moreover, Hania Aamir and Wahaj Ali were also able to create a great on-screen chemistry and the audience craved for them to have more time together on-screen.  

Rabya Kulsoom also won hearts as Saad’s sister Neelo. Rabya played the role of Neelo with all her heart and delivered an exceptional performance. 

The rest of the cast also did a good job. The cast members included Shahood Alvi, Salma Hassan, Angeline Malik, Noor-ul-Hassan, Shaheen Khan, Malaikah, Ambar Khan, Sabeena Syed, Ayesha Mirza, and Washma Fatima. 

To conclude, Mujhe Pyaar Hua Tha was able to entertain the audience by amalgamating strong performances and a star cast that made the drama top charts and be among the most popular currently airing dramas. While the story might seem ordinary to some, others enjoyed it thoroughly.  

What We Can Collectively Learn from Barbie Film Promotions

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Barbie movie

As Barbie shatters records and stereotypes across global screens, film producers in Pakistan can take note of the ingenious marketing campaign that has surrounded its release. Promotions for Barbie have been nothing short of a spectacle, leaving us with valuable insights on how we can revamp these promotional strategies to elevate the local film industry.

Color Pink: Beyond a Stereotype

One of the most striking elements of Barbie’s promotions has been the bold embrace of the color pink. Traditionally associated with femininity, the Barbie campaign has proven that pink is not just a stereotype; it can be a powerful branding tool.

The vibrant and unmistakable pink hues have become synonymous with the film, capturing the attention of potential viewers of all ages. Local producers can learn from this approach and consider how they can effectively use colors to create a distinct visual identity for their films.

Grand Scale Operations: Investing in the Vision

The Barbie promotions have not held back when it comes to grandeur and scale. From stunning billboards that tower over city streets to immersive pop-up experiences, every promotional tactic has showcased a commitment to the film’s vision.

We can take inspiration from this approach by allocating more budget and resources towards promotional activities. While it may seem daunting at first, investing in creativity and innovation can significantly impact a film’s success by drawing in larger audiences.

Strategic Partnerships: Extending the Brand Reach

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Barbie’s promotions has been its strategic partnerships with various brands. The collaboration with Burger King, as well as other companies, has not only bolstered the movie’s visibility but also extended the brand reach to diverse consumer segments.

By aligning with well-known brands, filmmakers can tap into new audiences and generate buzz around their films. Pakistani filmmakers have signed deals with local brands before and have even used subtle marketing tools during the movie, but there is always room to improve. The recently released Teri Meri Kahaniyaan had subtle integrations with Dairy Milk and focused on the ‘Celebrations’ aspect during Pasoori, the second film in the anthology movie.

The Need for Creativity and Purposeful Efforts

Pakistani film producers should realize that promotions are not just an afterthought but an integral part of a film’s success. Lackluster campaigns can deter potential viewers, no matter how impressive the film’s content may be. To create a lasting impact, filmmakers need to think outside the box, embracing guerrilla marketing techniques, and crafting meaningful connections with their target audience.

While Barbie sets the bar high with its innovative promotions, the situation in Pakistan’s film industry remains far from satisfactory. Many film releases suffer from a lack of budget, purpose, and effort in their promotional campaigns. Too often, promotions for Pakistani films are confined to media junkets and press meetups, with little focus on engaging the wider audience through on-ground activities or guerrilla marketing.

Our Verdict

As Barbie breaks records globally, the movie’s promotions offer valuable lessons to the local film industry. The creative use of color pink, the grand scale operations, and strategic brand partnerships are all tactics that Pakistani film producers can learn from.

By taking inspiration from the Barbie promotions and infusing purpose and creativity into their campaigns, Pakistani film producers can propel the industry to new heights, drawing larger audiences and establishing a lasting impact on the cinematic landscape.

Jinzada: Just Another Horror Drama or a Promising Thriller?

By
Kehkashan Bukhari
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Jinzada drama

Due to lack of a compelling story and competent VFX, it’s tough to have high hopes for Pakistani horror dramas. When it comes to this specific genre, the previously touted dramas like Saya and Bandish, both of which managed to dazzle spectators initially but witnessed a significant drop in viewership in their respective season two.

Geo Entertainment’s “Jin Zada” – a horror, thriller, love story hybrid; has recently received a lot of attention for its intriguing premise. Produced by Masterminds Productions, the sequences filmed in the stunning locales of Muzaffarabad and Kashmir stand out in the drama.    

In terms of lightning, sound and editing, the drama has managed to give spooky vibes. However, unfortunately in terms of visual effects, its unlikely to be considered as a success.

The Plot: Love story blended with troubled married life and Djinn 

The main protagonists include a married couple namely, Abiha – played by Nazish Jahangir and Adnan – played by Saad Qureshi.

Adnan’s parents, played by Parveen Akbar and Waseem Abbas, are portrayed as selfish, greedy, and crafty individuals who keep a relationship with their daughter-in-law for financial gains. Unlike their parents, Adnan and his sister Mehreen – played by Arisha Razi, had emotions of love and respect for Abiha.

Adnan is shown as a husband who cherishes his wife, and it is because of this love that Abiha tolerates her in-laws’ dreadful behavior.

The narrative here depicts the troubles of a woman’s married life as well as the negative impact on her life caused by the intervention of a mystery entity linked to her, which may be based on some truth true to certain extent.

Abiha comes from wealthy and well-established family, and is an only child of her parents. Behroze Sabzwari and Salma Asim are playing as devoted parents who won’t accept any type of concession or compromise when it comes to their only daughter.

In one episode where her mother-in-law makes a demand through her for 10 crore rupees. A demand which resulted in an extremely distressing situation – as despite Abiha’s mother’s fear of adverse consequences for their daughter’s married life, the father chose to bring Abiha home rather than caving in to the absurd demand.

The story then takes an unexpected and tragic turn as Abiha’s parents are then killed by ‘the Djinn’, henceforth adding to Abiha’s suffering and misery.

In-short, Jinzada is precisely a tale where an individual’s life is ruined by a demonic entity namely ‘Djinn’.

The impacts of Demonic Entity: Who’s Djinn?

Feroze – played by Syed Jibran, a vengeful and powerful Djinn, embarks on a treacherous and nefarious mission in “Jinzada.” Consumed by the anguish of his sister’s tragic murder, Feroze becomes determined to seek retribution at any cost. Armed with the ability to transform into anyone he desires, Feroze sets his sights on Abiha and begins to destroy her life and all of her cherished relationships.

The tug of war between good and evil continues but the question remains, ‘Why is the Djinn is after Abiha at all?’ Nevertheless, his presence in itself is causing unexpected twists and turns in the story.

However, a flashback revealed in the previous episode that Abiha’s father had shot a deer somewhere long ago which in fact was a Djinn in disguise – it is later revealed that the disguised Djinn was none other than Feroze’s sister. Nevertheless, however, it’s unclear to the audience yet.

Vengeance is frequently a driving force for a Djinn, but one of the reasons to be startled here is that the Djinn that died was Abiha’s doppelganger.

So far, the first few episodes have also revealed that Abiha married an evil Djinn during her honeymoon and that she is about to give birth to “Jin Zada”.

The not so flawless plot for Jinzada!

While the side characters are also catching up to the main plot, there remain certain flaws. For instance, while being under the influence of a demonic entity, Abiha is neither terrified nor aware of anyone’s presence.

In an earlier episode, Abiha waking up in the woods was the only time she realized something was off was when she noticed the mud in her room.

Despite having a great relationship and being in love with Adnan, not informing him about the behavior of the in-laws and leaving the house without telling him about it, is still an odd occurrence and contradicts the seemingly ‘perfect’ husband-wife relationship that is portrayed here.

However, it’s always a treat to watch Jibran on the screen, his dynamic acting adds to the story’s appeal, although VFX’s could’ve still benefited from some much-needed improvement. So far, Jinzada has charmed viewers with its intriguing tale, but if it continues on its current trajectory i.e., one dimensional, predictable and stereo-typical ‘Djinn story’, it might result in another disappointment for the audience when it comes to this genre.

The Good and Bad of Pakistani Drama Sequels 

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Pakistani dramas are well-known among the audience for their compelling narratives, adept direction, and impressive performances that deeply resonate with audiences. From the iconic PTV era to contemporary times, the scripts and narratives have evolved while maintaining a devoted fan base, both at home and abroad. In the case of highly popular dramas, producers often contemplate the creation of sequels to build upon that success.

While this is a popular concept practiced by international production houses, Pakistani dramas usually wrap as a stand-alone series. However, over the years several producers have taken the initiative of bringing another season to life of hit dramas. Recently, two of the mega hit projects Fairy Tale and Tere Bin have been renewed for a second season.

However, while the idea of revisiting beloved stories and characters may be attractive, there are both positive and negative aspects to Pakistani drama sequels. Let’s dive deep to assess the success of several such projects.  

Taking a trip down memory lane: Revisiting old dramas that had a sequel

Khuda Aur Mohabbat

GEO TV’s drama Khuda Aur Mohabbat garnered massive popularity among fans and the drama comprised of three seasons all of which have their own fan base.

Hashim Nadeem has penned all the three seasons of this series while all the seasons been directed by different directors including Anjum Shahzad (season 1), Ali Usama (season 2), Syed Wajahat Hussain (Season 3).

The first and second seasons revolved around the story of the same central characters, Hammad and Imaan, played by Imran Abbas and Sadia Khan respectively. It is the story of two star-struck lovers who belong from different backgrounds; Hammad belongs from an elite and modern family while Imaan is the daughter of a maulvi who works at Hammad’s family.

The third season introduces new characters starring Feroze Khan and Iqra Aziz as Farhad and Mahi. This season follows the same theme as the previous two seasons of an incomplete love story of two individuals separated by social class and family pressure while centering around the idea of God and religion.

All the three seasons were highly successful and were received well by the audience. Fans not only appreciated the drama but also praised the set of OSTs released. In fact, the OST of the third season has more than 287 million views on YouTube.

Suno Chanda:

The Ramzan rom-com drama Suno Chanda set a precedent for upcoming Ramzan dramas and created an entirely new category of Pakistani dramas. The first of many, Suno Chanda received unparalleled praise from the audience.

The drama comprised of two seasons with the story revolving around the same characters. The drama followed the story of Ajiya Nazakat (Iqra Aziz) and Arsalan Jamshed (Farhan Saeed) and how their relationship evolved from being each other’s arch enemies to falling in love with each other. The second season continued where the first season ended and centered around their married life as a young couple.

The drama is close to home for many viewers in Pakistan and globally due to many relatable moments encapsulated in the drama from dissecting relationships closely in a joint family system to highlighting the struggles of different individuals in various age groups and, lastly, giving food for thought in context with several domestic untouched issues, all wrapped in humor.

Although both the seasons were a success in terms of numbers, some viewers were disappointed with the second season as it did not live up to the expectations of some. This is very common to see that when a drama achieves undisputed levels of success it sometimes finds it hard to even surpass itself in the future.

Mera Saaein:

A political saga revolving around power play, Mera Saaein comprised of two seasons and aired on ARY Digital. The first season revolves around the life of Malik Wajahat Ali (Noman Ijaz), a feudal lord and politician, whose unending pursuit of women, power, and wealth has caused immense suffering for many women. Despite his significant influence over others, he remains fixated on having a male heir.

The story also follows Shazmeen (Sunita Marshall), who lived and studied in the UK, and married Wajahat with the hope of bringing positive change. The story tenses when Shazmeen finds her hopes broken and finds her best friend Naina as her enemy.

The second season takes a dramatic shift and the hinger for power intensifies. The two surviving wives of Malik Wajahat, Shazmeen and Naina, have now become bitter enemies.

While the first season received appreciation and accolades the second season could not live up to the same expectations. Although it is imperative to note that with the absence of the availability of season 2 on YouTube, it is hard to judge the popularity by the numbers though.

Bandish:

A recent addition to the supernatural horror genre, Bandish performed well and filled the gap for the need of a good horror Pakistani serial. Currently the second season of the drama is on air and both the seasons are written by Syed Nabeel and Shahid Nizami and directed by Aabis Raza.

With a new cast for the second season, the drama got a refresh look. However, the story for the second season has failed to carry the baton forward and Bandish 2 is not as exciting and watchable as season 1.

Landa Bazar:

Landa Bazar is a 2002 Pakistani drama serial which aired on Prime Entertainment (STN). The drama’s sequel released 15 years later by the title Laal Ishq. Both the seasons are directed by Dilawar Malik and written by Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar.

Landa Bazar revolves around Bali (Babar Ali), a young man facing the challenges of surviving in a world filled with crime and corruption. Amidst these difficulties, he also endeavors to nurture his relationship with his fiancée, Zohra (Farah Shah).

The sequel, Laal Ishq continues with a new plot while maintaining a coherent continuity and follows a rational trajectory, with an amalgamation of both the new and original cast.

Both the seasons performed well and Landa Bazar makers were able to deliver despite a 15 year gap.

Our expectations from upcoming dramas renewed for a second season:

The evident benefit of a sequel is the pre-established popularity that the drama has among the masses. It guarantees instant attention to the upcoming venture. However, high expectations can often be crumbled easily.

With the announcement of two sequels of highly popular dramas coming up, viewers are simultaneously excited and skeptical to see the two projects, afraid whether they will live up to the mark or not.

Tere Bin:

Directed by Siraj-ul-Haque and written by Nooran Makhdoom, Tere Bin comprised of 58 episodes in total. The drama garnered more than 3 billion views of YouTube altogether and eclipsed all the other projects over the years.

Although the drama is your run-of-the-mill love story, the magic and chemistry created by the lead actors, Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi as Murtasim Khan and Meerub, respectively stands unprecedented.

The drama followed the lives of Murtasim, a feudal lord and Meerub, an aspiring lawyer. Fate brings them together when they get married due to the pressure of their families and so begins the love-hate saga which compels the audience for 58 episodes.

The first season ended on a happy note and soon the makers announced another season of the hit play.

Tere Bin is a drama that will be talked about for years to come due to the long list of records it broke.

While there is no denying that the fan base of Tere Bin is one of its kind, however, the masses believe that the drama concluded on a high note and there is no need for another season. To make a sequel of Tere Bin is risky to say the least.

There are no official announcements about the plot or the cast of Tere Bin yet. But let’s hope that the makers who did it once will do it again and will create a mesmerizing show for the audience.

Fairy Tale:

HUM TV’s Ramzan drama Fairy Tale, which is directed by Ali Hasan and written by Saira Majeed, takes the audience on a laughter-filled journey that humorously explores life, relationships, and dreams. The story revolves around Umeed (Sehar Khan) and Farjad (Hamza Sohail), with other significant characters including Haya (Aena Khan), Sameer (Adnan Raza Mir), and AK Khan (Ali Safina).

The plot revolved around Umeed’s quest for fortune and how she ends up trying her luck on a game show and winning a large sum of money. Umeed’s desires have repercussions on others around her. The drama explores the repercussions of pursuing shortcuts to riches while also giving typical romantic-comedy relief through other interesting characters.

The second season of Fairy Tale was announced on Eid-ul-Adha with a rendition of the OST by the cast members. A few teasers of the sequel have already been released which has the audience excited.

The second season boosts the same cast and promises the same humor with romantic moments between the lead couple, that has the fans excited. Which of the sequels are you excited to watch on television? What is your take on the second seasons for a show? Do share with us in the comments.

Hook Final Episode Promised Little and Delivered Even Less

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Hook final episode

The drama serial “Hook,” presented by Ary Digital and produced by iDream Entertainment, concluded with its final episode, and it seems to have left viewers quite disappointed with its ending. Despite the initial promise, the last episode failed to deliver a satisfying conclusion, leaving many viewers feeling unsatisfied.

Written by Shagufta Bhatti and Shahid Dogar, and directed by Mohsin Mirza, Hook’s cast included Kinza Hashmi, Shahroz Sabzwari, Faysal Qureshi, Saima Noor, Mirza Zain Baig, Hina Dilpazeer, Mariam Ansari, Natasha Ali, Sohail Sameer, Waseem Abbas and Humaira Bano.

Viewers Didn’t Expect Mehmoona’s Death

Throughout the drama’s run, fans had certain expectations for the ending, hoping for a better resolution without the unfortunate demise of Jaffer Ilahi’s first wife, Mehmoona. Most viewers didn’t appreciate this sudden turn of events and expressed their dissatisfaction with Mehmoona’s death. They felt that it was an injustice to the character and didn’t sit well with the overall tone of the story.

The main couple, Haya and Jaffer, were expected to have some happy moments together after Mehmoona’s passing, but the narrative seemed to take a different direction. This departure from viewers’ expectations left them feeling unfulfilled and craving for a more complete ending.

Many Loose Ends in Hook

Moreover, there were various loose ends left untied. Fans expressed their desire to see the couple starting a family, but the drama failed to address this aspect of their lives. Additionally, the fact that Mehmoona’s brother escaped any form of punishment further contributed to the overall sense of disappointment.

Should Faysal Qureshi Be Careful with the Roles He Picks After Hook?

Faysal Qureshi’s role choice as Jaffer Ilahi also came under scrutiny. Some viewers felt that he should be more selective in his roles, as they were disappointed with the recurring theme of his character forcefully marrying younger girls and developing feelings for them.

Despite these criticisms, it’s worth acknowledging the praise Faysal Qureshi received for his remarkable acting, expressions, and versatility in portraying Jaffer Ilahi. However, even a brilliant performance couldn’t salvage an ending that left many fans dissatisfied.

Our Verdict for Hook

In conclusion, the final episode of “Hook” failed to live up to viewers’ expectations, primarily due to the unexpected turn of events and the unresolved plotlines. While Faysal Qureshi’s acting was appreciated, our overall consensus is that the drama could have offered a better and more fulfilling conclusion.

Sirf Tum Review: A Heartening Story of Two People Brought Together By Love

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Sirf Tum Review

GEO TV’s new drama serial Sirf Tum is another addition to their list of romantic-family dramas that presents an enthralling love story.  

The new and fresh on-screen pairing of Anmol Baloch and Hamza Sohail adds more excitement for the viewers. Anmol is known for her work in projects like Mann Aangan, Aik Sitam Aur, and Qurbatain among others. While Hamza Sohail developed an avid fan following his Ramzan rom-com drama Fairytale.

Written by Seema Munaf and directed by Mazhar Moin, Sirf Tum is a signature style 7th Sky Entertainment production with larger-than-life frames, a jaw dropping set, and of course a dreamy and sizzling on-screen pairing.

Unwrapping the plot of Sirf Tum:

Sirf Tum centres around the love story of two cousins Hanan (played by Hamza Sohail) and Abeer (played by Anmol Baloch).

Brought up in a joint family, Hanan is a romantic by heart. He is heavily invested in studies and is essayed to be very mature and obedient. While Abeer lives abroad and is raised by her mother and stepfather.

The plot opens with Hanan and Hamza (Mohsin Abbas) who are cousins and live in the same house. While Hanan is more sensible, Hamza is shown to be a flirt and a rebel. Hanan has a crush on a girl in his university, but is too shy to approach her, and instead focuses on his study.

On the other hand, Abeer who is the only child, lives abroad. While she is shown to be close to her mother, she doesn’t have a healthy relationship with her stepfather. The story unravels when Abeer’s stepfather tries to make inappropriate advances at her, and an afraid Abeer and mother hastily come back to Pakistan, where Abeer’s grandmother wants her to marry either Hanan or Hamza.

The rest of the cast of the drama includes Sakina Khan, Fazila Kazi, Hiba Aziz, Erum Akhter, Ayesha Gul, Sabiha Hashmi, Akber Islam, Zia Gurchani, and Salma Asim.

Our take on the new pairing in Sirf Tum:

The first episode ended with a cliff hanger as Hanan and Abeer interact with each other for the first time, leaving the audience anticipating the next episode eagerly.

Due to the limited screen time that both the actors shared together, the viewers still have to wait to see how this love story unfolds and how the lead actors look together on-screen.

But from the teasers and the OST that were released prior to the first episode of the drama, Hamza Sohail and Anmol Baloch promise good on-screen chemistry that the audience will root for.

In addition, it is worth mentioning that since this will be Hamza Sohail’s first project after Fairytale, the expectations and hopes that his fans have associated from him are elevated. We hope that he dazzles the audience with his performance.

Elements we wished were executed better:

Sirf Tum seems from the surface another run-of-the-mill drama with the same love story between two cousins who are forced to marry each other. With GEO’s recent hits like Tere Bin and Jhoom, expectations attached to the channel are certainly high and we hope that they bring originality to plots that hook the viewer’s attention.

Secondly, we highly anticipate seeing more empowering female leads in our dramas. Anmol’s character Abeer hardly had limited dialogues in the first episode and was hardly seen to take a stand for herself against her stepfather, especially when he enters her room without her consent.

We also don’t see any mention of Abeer’s education or career aspirations in the drama, even when she moves to Pakistan, leaving her life behind in abroad. We wish to see female characters who are more career oriented and have aspirations and goals.

Overall, Sirf Tum seems like a promising watch, especially for all those viewers who want to see a romantic family-oriented drama that is encapsulated in lavish and larger-than-life frames.

Sabeena Farooq Steals Show in Kabli Pulao with Stunning Pushto Impression as Barbeena

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Barbeena in Kabli Pulao

Fresh from her success as Haya in Tere Bin, Sabeena Farooq’s remarkable portrayal of Barbeena in Green Entertainment’s latest drama, Kabli Pulao has caught the attention of many viewers.

From the heart-touching Pashto accent to mastering every nuance of the language, Sabeena Farooq has left audiences in awe with her outstanding performance!

Sabeena Farooq Perfects the Pushto Accent

When it comes to authenticity, Sabeena has hit the ball out of the park. Her dedication to perfecting the Pushto accent and embracing the cultural essence of the character is commendable. It’s no surprise that viewers are raving about how genuine and realistic she looked in the role of Barbeena.

Under the expert direction of Kashif Nisar, Kabli Pulao has truly flourished. Nisar’s skilled guidance has allowed Sabeena Farooq to shine as Barbeena and has elevated the drama to new heights. The chemistry between the director and the actress is evident on-screen, resulting in a captivating performance that leaves a lasting impact.

Barbeena Narrates Her Story in Kabli Pulao

One particular scene in Kabli Pulao where Barbeena narrates her story about Baraan has left the audience emotionally overwhelmed. As she immersed herself in the character’s emotions, Sabeena’s convincing portrayal brought tears to the eyes of many viewers. It’s moments like these that demonstrate her sheer brilliance as an actress.

The authenticity of Sabeena’s acting reached its peak during the kitchen scenes where she conversed entirely in Pashto. It’s undeniable that she nailed every aspect of her character’s identity, making it seem as though she truly belonged to the culture she portrayed.

Social Media Praises Sabeena Farooq’s Acting in Kabli Pulao

Social media has been buzzing with praise for Sabeena Farooq, with viewers showering her with appreciation. Many fans have taken to Twitter and other platforms to express their admiration for her dedication and hard work. Comments like “10 out of 10 for Sabeena,” “so damn good and real,” and “cannot express in words how good Sabeena’s acting was” are just a glimpse of the overwhelming support she’s receiving.

Beyond her acting skills, Sabeena’s role in Kabli Pulao has also sparked conversations about cultural representation and the importance of showcasing diverse stories on-screen. Her portrayal of Barbeena has resonated with many from the Pashtun community, who feel seen and heard through her performance.

The conversations around Kabli Pulao can undoubtedly be attributed to the exceptional efforts of the entire cast and crew. Sabeena Farooq’s exceptional talent, combined with Kashif Nisar’s directorial finesse, has created a drama that will be remembered for years to come.

Upcoming Drama “Mayi Ri” To Shed Light on Child Marriage and Its Impact

By
Faizanullah Khan
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Mayi Ri Cover

Mayi Ri, the much-anticipated upcoming drama series, delves into the deeply concerning issue of child marriage while also exploring its broader repercussions on society. The three teasers of the drama reveal that the show aims to shed light on this pressing problem and raise awareness about the grave consequences it poses for young individuals and their communities.

Produced by Big Bang Entertainment and directed by Meesam Naqvi, Mayi Ri will release on ARY Digital and will delve deeper into the intricacies of child marriage and beyond.

Weaving a Compelling Narrative

By weaving a compelling narrative, “Mayi Ri” aims to initiate a dialogue on the cultural and societal norms that perpetuate child marriage. It delves into the complexities of traditional beliefs and their impact on young lives, encouraging viewers to critically examine harmful practices prevalent in some regions.

Beyond the central theme of child marriage, “Mayi Ri” also addresses various interconnected social issues, such as gender inequality, lack of women’s agency, and the importance of education in empowering individuals and fostering progress.

Cast and Crew for Mayi Ri

The cast, crew, and producers of Mayi Ri have ensured that the show is both informative and accurate, depicting the multifaceted challenges faced by those trapped in the cycle of child marriage.

Through “Mayi Ri,” the hope is to provoke a positive change in societal attitudes and policies, ultimately working towards eradicating the practice of child marriage and providing young individuals with the chance to lead fulfilling lives.

With its powerful storytelling and poignant performances, “Mayi Ri” promises to be an eye-opening and thought-provoking series that not only sheds light on the harrowing realities of child marriage but also sparks a broader conversation about the need for social transformation and the protection of children’s rights.

The drama features a star-studded cast, including Nauman Ejaz, Aina Asif, Samar Abbas, Haniya Ahmed, Maria Wasti, Rimha Ahmed, Saad Zameer Faridi, Sajida Syed, Paras Masroor, Amna Malik, Diya Mughal, Usman Mazhar, Faham Usman, Sameena Nazir, and Bisma Babar. Notably, Maya Khan and Hiba Ali Khan will be making their much-anticipated comebacks with this drama.

We are excited for the release of Mayi Ri and the compelling narrative it will weave. Stay with us for more updates on the drama.

Kuch Ankahi’s Enigmatic Charm Leaves Our Heart Yearning for More

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Kuch Ankahi ending
Kuch Ankahi ending

As the credits rolled and Kuch Ankahi concluded after an emotional roller coaster that was encapsulated in twenty-seven episodes, we were left in awe, completely mesmerized by this visual treat.

Airing on ARY Digital, Kuch Ankahi is an enchanting watch that unravels the subtle nuances of human connection, breaks the haunting silences, presents a flawed protagonist who is a victim of her circumstances, and a heartwarming love story that has a journey of its own.

Directed by Nadeem Baig, a maestro who has perfected his craft, giving us many hits including classical dramas like Sinf-e-Aahan and Mere Paas Tum Ho. The drama is penned by Syed Mohammad Ahmed and co-written by Muhammad Yasir. Mohammad Ahmed has a large body of work in acting as well as screenwriting and his popular written dramas include Teri Meri Jodi, Tanhaiyan Naye Silsilay.

A production by Kashf Foundation in collaboration with Six Sigma Plus, Kuch Ankahi celebrates the small moments of life and entangles the audience in its subtle intricacies.

Here is why Kuch Ankahi struck a chord with the viewers:

The well-executed last episode for Kuch Ankahi ended with a bang

The last episode of Kuch Ankahi left a profound impact on its viewers as each character reached a logical conclusion that did not derail from the plot it was resting on while keeping the element of curiosity alive as the viewers await to see who Aaliya (Sajal Aly) ends up with.

Credit where it is due, Nadeem Baig extended his years of experience and his undeniable talent to create Kuch Ankahi and did not hold back from giving a last episode that perhaps makes Kuch Ankahi a contender to be counted among one of the classical dramas.

The last fifteen minutes were no less than a visual delight for Kuch Ankahi viewers, who patiently tuned in for twenty-seven weeks to follow the journey of Aaliya, Asfar, Salman, and all the other characters that were intertwined with them.

The climax unfolded as Aaliya bids farewell to Asfar (Sheheryar Munawar) and accepts Salman’s (Bilal Abbas) proposal. The last scene was a million bucks when Salman gives the ring to Aaliya and she accepts it and all the Bilal Abbas and Sajal Aly fans rejoice, seeing such a heartfelt scene of one of their beloved on-screen couples.

The dance sequence and all the celebration that followed were well choreographed and the drone shot where we see an ariel shot of the house-from where the story begin-was a marvelous way to conclude the drama.

The tale of a girl determined to fight any obstacle that comes her way

An integral part of Kuch Ankahi was Aaliya, the protagonist of the drama on which, if not the entire, a significant portion, of the drama rested on.

Sajal Aly once again proves her mantle, convincing us that there is no role that she can’t do. She embraces Aaliya with all her heart, depicting the pain and sorrow that she keeps to herself, as she fights for her family, determined to earn a decent living. So much so, that when it comes to choosing a life partner for herself, her ears are deaf to her own voice, for she has forgotten that she ever had any. 

Aaliya resonates with many women out there…women of substance that are making sacrifices in their own ways and forms for their families, completely forgetting themselves in the way.

What makes Aaliya human is that she is nowhere near perfect. In fact, it is her flaws that make us fall in love with her more than us despising her.

Kuch Ankahi dives deep into the story of a middle-class family that is close to home

The soul-stirring drama weaves a connection with the viewers that is personal and resonates differently with each of us.

It walks us through issues that we are often silent about. From property issues and financial troubles that often result in conflict, to society’s attitude towards parents with all daughters, Kuch Ankahi covers it all. The plot reflects on a story of a reticent woman who finds her independence after giving it all in her marriage, an ambitious teenager who refuses to succumb to the norms of society, and a valiant woman who stands tall in front of the world to earn a decent living.

Asfar vs. Salman: The triangle love story that made it hard for us to choose

What a treat it was to see two talented actors from our entertainment industry sharing the screen together. For weeks Asfar and Salman had the audience divided, leaving them perplexed and undecided when it comes to choosing who is better for Aaliya.

Bilal Abbas essayed the role of Salman to perfection. As viewers we thoroughly enjoyed the arc of Salman and Aaliya’s love story, from fighting like cats and dogs to falling for each other but being separated due to their duties.

On the other hand, Sheheryar Munawar as Asfar added the fireworks that Kuch Ankahi needed in the middle. His entry worked as a botox for the drama, that provided a relift to a good enough story.

Sheheryar exhibited the complex emotions of Asfar tactfully, causing our opinions to oscillate like a pendulum, swaying from one end to the other.

The weak links that could have been executed better:

While Kuch Ankahi undeniably earns our applause for its numerous accomplishments, it also faced moments of imbalance, causing the drama to waver intermittently.

One of its biggest flaws was perhaps too many intertwined subplots that were at times a source of dismay for the audience. With such a strong lead cast, audience craved to see more of them on-screen, which was taken away when too many plots unfolded. It also caused confusion among the viewers to understand and relate with all the characters.

In addition, the drama also unfolded unevenly at times. A few episodes and plots were dragged and were given undeserving screen time that took away from the user experience, while other plots that needed time were rushed.

Our Verdict

Kuch Ankahi is one of those dramas that we will cherish even after it has concluded. It is an amalgamation of excellent storytelling, skillful direction, and impressive acting, that together has been able to establish its own category among the many projects that we see.

Siyaah Series Is a Promising Addition to the Horror Realm

By
Zainab Mossadiq
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Siyaah drama

Green Entertainment is revolutionizing the television landscape with an unprecedented offering for its audience. Among their exciting firsts is the introduction of a captivating two-hour slot dedicated to one drama, thus guaranteeing a substantial amount of entertainment. Setting the precedent, Siyaah series is the first drama to follow this format. On Saturday, the audience embraced an addition to local content, in the genre of horror, that promises its viewers spine-chilling tales, supernatural encounters, psychological thrills, suspenseful moments, urban legends, and even horror comedy.

The Siyaah series will comprise of a number of disconnected and individual episodes that will have their own cast and plot. The series boosts a talented and long list of actors that includes Ali Ansari, Asad Siddiqui, Dur-e-Fishan, Osman Khalid Butt, Hareem Farooq, Naveen Waqar, Hira Mani, Usama Khan, Hania Aamir, Sami Khan, Alyy Khan, Faysal Quraishi, Arsalan Naseer, Shahveer Jafry, Maryam Noor, Noor Zafar Khan, Mariyam Nafees, Affan Waheed, Babar Ali and a strong supporting cast for each episode.

Diving straight into the two episodes that aired last night:

Spoilers Ahead

Roohdad: A story of a deceitful man entangled in his own sins

The first chapter in the Siyaah series stars Asad Siddiqui as the lead. He characterizes a cunning man Wasi who deceits people by claiming that he can call the dead to this world and their loved ones can talk to them, for which he charges a large amount of fee. He and his three group of friends engage in first finding clients and then through mimicking the dead person’s voice they trick people into believing that they have brought dead to this world and later upload the videos of this exchange on the internet.

All goes well for the four friends until they get a case to call a boy Nabil back to this world by his mother, who claims she doesn’t have any video or audio of her son but only has a necklace that belongs to him, which she hands over to the friends.

Hell breaks loose when Wasi’s three friends Tariq, Luqman, and Danielle die a painful death when they are near the necklace and see a ghost of the young boy Nabil. Wasi realizes that his mischief has caught up with him after he is sent a video of his case which led to him realizing that he defamed Nabil due to which he died.

Following that we see some eerie shots and a petrified Wasi trying to escape his death. The macabre atmosphere sends chills down the spine and creates a shuddering fear in the audience. The forty-five-minute episode was well directed and that kept the element of intrigue intact.

Asad Siddiqui also did a splendid job, from depicting a ruthless and cold Wasi who is fixated with money to a frightened man who has lost his three friends and trying to escape his own death. Overall, the episode did a job well done, hooking our interest in the Siyaah series.

Khoat: Unwrapping a psychological thriller

The second episode of the Siyaah series unfolds the story of a man named Tariq, played by Ali Ansari. The episode begins as Tariq reaches his home to witness some abnormal activities which leaves him shaken.

Then enters Bashir, an obnoxious bully who is determined to make Tariq’s life living hell. He takes his laptop before an important presentation that Tariq has to prepare for. A frightened Tariq succumbs in front of his bully.

The next day after getting a scolding from his boss for his unprofessional attitude, Tariq is consoled by Annie, whom he has a crush on. The story moves forward as we see one of the managers misbehaving with Annie, but an afraid Tariq does nothing, only to be shamed by Bashir for his cowardliness. Following that we see that the manager has been attacked.

Suspecting Bashir, Tariq goes to his friend DCP Yawar to seek comfort and take advice from the DCP regarding his bully, who advises him to take a stand for himself. Exhausted from all the bullying, Tariq decides to take a stand for himself and frame Bashir for the murder of Danielle, who is Annie’s fiancé.

The climax of the episode unfolds after Tariq records Bashir murdering Danielle, only to realize later that he is actually Bashir after watching the video clip. Tariq is left perplexed and when he goes to find DCP Yawar he is left in shock to know that the man died 17 years ago.

While there is no doubt that the episode was well directed, the episode received mixed views. For some viewers the episode was too bland, who were able to figure out within fifteen minutes of the episode that Tariq had multiple personality disorder, thus the climax was underwhelming for them. The other group of viewers, who were oblivious to the mental health disorder were left confused with the ending.

We appreciate the writer’s efforts to bringing a desi psychological thriller to life, but we wish that a few things were tweaked here and there that would have made the episode more engaging.

Our Verdict on Siyaah

Siyaah series has been written by Syed Ameer Hussain Shah and has been directed by Sabeeh Ahmed, who have done a commendable job in bringing this series to life. Due to each story being encapsulated in less than fifty minutes, the viewers remain more engaged throughout the episode and the plot does not get dragged.

With its strong writing and direction alongside a remarkable list of actors who will be starring in the future episodes, we have high hopes from this one.

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