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Is Habs Taking Inspiration From Plots Of Indian Films?

The drama industry of Pakistan has a huge significance in producing top-notch content that not just entertains local viewers but is even loved by our neighboring county, India. Sharing a cultural heritage somehow evokes creative liberties, and there have been instances where members of the entertainment fraternity have been largely influenced by each other. ARY Digital’s Habs starring Ushna Shah and Feroze Khan came across as yet another case of Bollywood ‘inspiration’. The plotline has a tweaked baseline from the Bollywood film Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hai.

A Quick Recap

Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hai starred Anil Kapoor (Vijay) and Kajol (Megha), two individuals from different walks of life, facing unusual circumstances, who decide to get married on a contract-basis. Vijay is a rich guy who is unwilling to marry, while Megha is the only breadwinner of the house with responsibilities.

The Uncanny Resemblance

When you have good actors like Feroze and Ushna, the project is bound to take a good start. And it did. The initial episodes kept viewers engaged from the word go, but it didn’t take much time for viewers to identify the striking resemblance with the Bollywood production. Ayesha’s (Ushna Shah) track is similar to Megha’s.

The writer, Aliya Makhdoom, embellishes the plot by adding the core ingredient of Pakistani drama – the angle of a negative Phuppo – but that doesn’t conceal the striking resemblance.

Upcoming Episodes To Decide

Going by the teaser promos, we strongly sense that the contract marriage angle will soon be revealed on Habs. Also, in one of the promos, Basit hands over divorce papers to Ayesha. In another, Ayesha talks about the hardships of her life that eventually make her decide to take a chance. Until, then, let’s wait and watch!

Happy Birthday To The Master Of All Trades – Ali Zafar

He has won accolades around the world, he makes remarkable music and his acting wows everyone. His voice and his music speak for itself but his true success is in the love that his fans shower upon him. He is none other than the maestro musician, the phenomenal singer, and the world class actor – Ali Zafar.

Today, 18th May 2022, marks Ali Zafar’s 42nd birthday. Although a phenomena who refuses to age, Ali Zafar has spent 4 decades of his life contributing to the world with his talent and making it a better place for all – whether it’s through his music, his acting or his philanthropic projects.

Who is Ali Zafar – The Person?

Ali Zafar was born into a well-educated family. His parents are university professors. At the age of 8, Zafar, who was rather talented since birth, made his first comics.

Although Ali Zafar’s parents wanted him to pursue his career in civil services, he convinced them of his passion towards music and being the loving family they were, they supported him in his decision.

Ali Zafar began his profession as a sketch artist from a hotel’s lobby in Lahore and from his first month’s earning, he purchased a Yamaha Piano.

Alongside music, Ali pursued his passion for acting as well and debuted as a television actor by acting in drama serials ‘Kollege Jeans’, ‘Kanch Ke Par‘ and ‘Landa Bazar,‘ a drama where his acting was praised for his intensity and professionalism portrayed at such a young age.

He made his singing introduction with a tune “Jugnuon Se Bhar Le Anchal” for the film Shararat in 2003. His big break came with the super hit song, “Channo“. Ali Zafar became an overnight sensation in Pakistan after his first song “Channo” that went on to top many music charts and earned him several awards.

Following the success of “Channo“, Ali Zafar’s debut album “Huqa Pani“, sold over five million copies worldwide.

Success In Hollywood and Bollywood

Ali Zafar’s song “Dekha” was made part of the Hollywood film “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps,” which was released in September 2010, making him one of the only four Pakistani artists to have their songs featured in Hollywood films.

In 2010, Ali Zafar made his debut as a leading actor with the Bollywood film “Tere Bin Laden.” From there on, Ali made an A line for Bollywood movies with top stars. Ali Zafar starred opposite the gorgeous Katrina Kaif in Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, and then went on to land films like “Chashme Baddoor,” “London Paris New York”, “Kill Dill” and “Dear Zindagi” as well.

Ali Zafar’s performance earned him several nominations in the Best Male Debut category, including Filmfare, making him the first Pakistani actor to get nominated for any Bollywood Award as well.

Success In Pakistan

Over the span of his career, Ali Zafar has received five Lux Style Awards and several nominations in award ceremonies including IIFA Awards, Screen Awards, Zee Cine Awards and Filmfare Awards.

Despite numerous challenges, his debut Pakistani movie “Teefa in Trouble” set records in Pakistan’s cinema Industry. The film was one of its kind, not only because of its content, but also featured phenomenal music, performances and spectacular action sequences – the kind that have never been seen in Pakistan before.

Ali Zafar has also been awarded Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan for his meritorious services for the music and film industry. His Ali Zafar Foundation supports the education of students across Pakistan, creating a hope for a better future for those who need his true help.

Zainab Salman Shatters Barriers Of Fashion And Tradition

When it comes to anything wholesome – be it in the world of fashion, film, or television, we can’t help but let our hearts swell. Such is the case with Zainab Salman, who is launching her latest formal collection called “Pyaare Baba,” on May 16th 2022, through her leading fashion house in Lahore.

Zainab Salman

A firm believer in leveling up in the world of fashion, Zainab Salman has focused a lot on community growth through people and their emotions. Her campaigns reflect the same, and it is her relationship with her own father that has inspired the launch of “Pyaare Baba.”

“Pyaare Baba”

The collection is headlined by a nostalgic video featuring a letter that Zainab Salman addresses to her father, to say the things she could never say to him in person. Following this example, the fashion house wants to encourage community growth. “Pyaare Baba” is a product of collaborations within the community. Inspired by Fatima Amjed’s thesis, the campaign collaborates with her for the video itself.

The Team

Samhaita Narang, an artist from across the border, has collaborated to re-record Abi Sampa’s heart touching track “Rang”. Zara Peerzada is the main campaign lead; Anila Murtaza – a Karachi-based celebrity stylist has styled the looks, with jewelry by Hamna Amir. The campaign video is directed by Saad Amjad and shot by Ikram Gohar. The photography has been executed by Shayaan Sherwani.

More About The Collection

The collection is a series of delicate fabrics with beautiful embroideries that reflect the beauty of sub-continental craft. The embroideries are gleaming with sequins and crystals all over. The response to “Pyaare Baba” has been overwhelmingly positive, even before its launch. Undoubtedly, Zainab Salman is grateful for people receiving her collection with open hearts.

Indian Filmmaker Set To Make Film On Life And Death Of Qandeel Baloch

The life and tragic, horrifying murder of model and social media sensation Qandeel Baloch is set to be encapsulated as a film by acclaimed Indian filmmaker Alankrita Shrivastava.

Details

Alankrita Shrivastava, along with producers Vikas Sharma and Sunny Khanna have acquired the rights to Sanam Maher’s “The Sensational Life and Death of Qandeel Baloch.” The Lipstick Under My Burkha filmmaker has a bevy of impactful feminist projects under her wing already, with Busan selection “Dolly Kitty and Those Twinkling Stars” and Netflix series “Bombay Begums,” being a few to name.

The Team On Qandeel Baloch

Talking about why the project is important, Alankrita had the following to state:

“When Qandeel Baloch was murdered in Pakistan in 2016, I was shaken up. It was a heinous honor killing. I couldn’t stop thinking about her. I started watching Qandeel’s videos repeatedly, and I was fascinated. She was so charming and full of life. A poor girl from a small village, who worked her way up to being provocatively famous. She was just 26 when she was killed. And ironically, it’s only after her death that she has been reclaimed as a feminist.”

Vikas Sharma also weighed in, and had the following to say:

“Qandeel’s story needs to be told by a sensitive filmmaker who is passionate about women’s stories. Alankrita is just the filmmaker for it. And not just because she is an award-winning feminist filmmaker, but because she has so much empathy for her characters. She tells their stories with candor and warmth.”

Sunny Khanna added: “Qandeel Baloch’s story is important and relevant. Even today women often continue to be at risk when they dare to express their individuality and challenge the status quo. I believe the world needs to watch stories like this.”

It’ll be interesting to see how Pakistani audiences respond to the news, and how Indian audiences respond to the film.

Bilal Abbas Khan Unfollows Ahad Raza Mir & Ramsha Khan, Alarming Fans

Look – navigating relationships and friendship is tricky nowadays, with digital media amassing a great deal of social capital and worth. In an ideal world, possible fall-outs would remain private, as they should. However, when a public figure makes a decision to take some form of action on social media, regardless of how stealthy it is, people notice. Such is the case with Bilal Abbas Khan unfollowing Ahad Raza Mir and Ramsha Khan.

Unfollow Spree By Bilal Abbas Khan: What Happened?

Honestly, that’s the extent of what we know as well. The Cheekh and Dobara star, who is the apple of the eyes of numerous fans (with 2.4 million of them on Instagram alone) unfollowed both Ahad Raza Mir and Ramsha Khan on Instagram. Eagle-eyed fans were quick to point this out, and many have been left wondering about what led the star to take this step.

We must take this opportunity to also mention that Bilal Abbas Khan does not follow Feroze Khan on Instagram either.

What We Know

We’re not putting two and two together. What we can do is place certain facts (and whispers) forth, and leave the rest upto the audience. Or, you know, wait for a statement from the stars in question.

Ahad Raza Mir and Ramsha Khan recently starred opposite each other in the Ramazan play, Hum Tum. Their performances were liked by many, and fans shipped the characters of the two actors in the play. In the past, Bilal Abbas Khan has been known to be close to Ramsha Khan, and all speculation aside, the two seemed to have a genuinely appreciable sense of camaraderie.

What Can Be Deduced?

This unfollow spree seems a bit out of the blue, and has led to further speculations, and a great deal of heartbreak on part of the fans of the actors. The truth of the matter, however, remains unknown thus far.

However, let’s collectively pump the brakes on further speculation. If there has, indeed, been a fall-out, let us hope that the stars heal from whatever has transpired.

Dushman Kicks Off On A Powerfully Stellar Note

PTV with Mont Blanc Entertainment, has brought forth a show that truly seems reminiscent of the golden age of drama, in the form of Dushman. The drama, that was so hush-hush that even its title remained a mystery till the very end, is a thrilling, exciting venture that is bound to keep audiences hooked and constantly at the edge of their seats.

Dushman: The Team

Directed by Abdullah Badini of ‘Ik Thi Rania’ and written by Jo Bichar Gaye’s Ali Moeen, the project has been shot in Bahawalpur and showcases a narrative centred around a feudal system, inundated with themes of revenge, while promising intensity.

The Cast

Filled with a mix of seasoned artists, the cast includes Nadia Afgan, Saman Ansari, Hassan Niazi, Mohsin Gillani, Mohammed Ayub Khosa, Nayyer Ejaz, Sabeeka Imam, Subhan Awam, Rose Mohammed, and Hadi Bin Arshad. It is also the final acting project of actress Naila Jaffri (late) who passed away last amidst her battle with cancer.

The Plot So Far

A rift is afoot between two powerful women, with murder, grasp over authority, and a need to preserve power driving the central plot. Filled with action, conspiracy, and just the right amount of drama, Dushman is shaping up to be a thoroughly engaging watch.

The Performances

Without giving too much away, one can, without a shadow of doubt, state that the PTV and Mont Blanc Entertainment project does not disappoint at all in terms of performances. One cannot simply rely on a review of this well-knit and powerful project – one must, at all costs, experience the glory of the show that, at times, seems like a film. The standout cast delivers fully, and leaves one in awe of the majesty of this experience.

Dushman: Verdict So Far

One may perceive this to be a revival of PTV, and what a revival it is indeed. Mont Blanc Entertainment, paired with the team and cast, does justice to the mere concept of revival, and puts forth a drama so engaging, that it is hard to pass on, keeping viewers enthralled, and leaving audiences wanting more.

HSY Opens Up About Upcoming ARY Telefilm With Mehwish Hayat

It’s raining projects in Lollywood, with upcoming shows, films, and telefilms being announced with great frequency. Adding to the list of projects for which one must watch out is the Mehwish Hayat and HSY starrer for ARY.

The Team

According to an Instagram post shared by HSY, what we do know for sure is that the designer-cum-actor, Hassan Sheheryar Yasin, will be starring opposite the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz holding renowned actor, Mehwish Hayat. The project is a telefilm by ARY, produced under the banner of iDream Entertainment. It has been written by Faiza Iftikhar, and is going to be directed by Ahmed Bhatti.

What We Know So Far

While the project is pretty hush-hush publicly, sources have revealed that it might be called Ijazat (although we may have to wait for confirmation on this). HSY will also be styling himself, and has created a look for the character. It is set to be a fun, entertaining project, that will be different from what we’ve seen HSY in so far.

HSY On The Project

While HSY too remained mum about certain details, we did manage to extract some information. For starters, we know that his character will be completely different from what we’ve seen him do thus far.

“I’m very excited to be playing this new role in this telefilm,” states HSY in an exclusive quote. “The exciting part is that it’s poles apart from the two completely different characters I’ve played of Akram in Pehli Si Mohabbat and Mangshi in Ishrat: Made In China. This is a completely different guy, completely different character. His sensitivities are completely different. His way of approaching life and seeing things is completely different.”

The Challenge

What HSY seems to love the most about the role is the challenge it poses, and he seems audibly excited about the same. However, he mentions that due to its challenging nature, the role is deeply rewarding as well.

HSY And Mehwish Hayat

While shedding light on him working with Mehwish Hayat, he mentions that he adores her, and thinks she’s a brilliant star and an incredibly generous and kind actor.

Moreover, he believes that their chemistry is also extremely strong. HSY is also excited to be working with Abdullah Seja, who has shown the star immense support, and Ahmed Bhatti, with whom the star has not worked before, but enjoys the current process.

“It’s a joy to be on this set working with these guys,” states HSY.

Ensuing Excitement

HSY pairing up with Mehwish Hayat for an ARY project is undoubtedly cause for excitement. As we wait for more details to unfold, we know we’re keeping our eyes peeled and ears piqued to know more about this telefilm.

Parde Mein Rehne Do Tackles Infertility In Impactful Narrative

Film: Parde Mein Rehne Do

Release Date: 3rd May 2022

Director: Wajahat Rauf

Review by: Hassan Hassan

The Indo-Pak cinematic landscape has always had a penchant for films with social themes and messages at its core. Socially relevant films have not only been historically cost effective, but also relatable for the target family audience.

Past And Present

The trend of social drama films was at its peak in Lollywood in the 60s and 70s, when the Pakistani cinema saw its golden age and was once considered as the third third biggest film industry in the world, dwarfed only by Hollywood and Bollywood.

Lollywood’s love affair with social dramas sustained itself in its darkest days, where directors like Syed Noor and Sangeeta made films to attract family audiences with a message in their films Wajahat Rauf’s Parde Mein Rehne Do attempts to follow a similar pattern and turns out to be a modern day social dramedy that not only delivers a powerful message but also challenges well established patriarchal standards.

Team And Plot

For director Wajahat Rauf, known for films with a high commercial quotient like the Karachi Se Lahore series and Chalawa, Parde Mein Rehne Do is a rather pleasant detour. Starring Ali Rehman Khan as Shani opposite Hania Aamir as Nazo, the film follows a lower-middle class married couple who struggle to have a child in a household where a patriarch, brilliantly played by Javed sheikh, strongly believes in strict stereotypes and gender-assigned roles.

The film explores how the couple have to face multiple difficulties, like finding out about their medical issues. How the couple deals with these difficulties is what the film is based on.

A Smaller Scale

Being an experimental affair, the film is understandably made on a smaller scale, and this is visible from the start. The film is mostly shot indoors and at a limited number of locales. That’s not to say that it takes away much from the film. The focus of the makers remains on the main issue at hand and they don’t stray from random characters, subplots, or even jokes.

What Works

All of the comedy is situational, relevant, and pleasant. The comic timings of Javed Sheikh and Hasan Raza, who plays Shani’s friend, are impeccable. (However, the latter was asked to smile at the end of each dialogue which seemed monotonous by the end).

The central issue of male infertility is tackled in a lighter, balanced way, although there are moments where more information could have been added regarding male infertility (perhaps the makers were conscious of not letting the film be a preachy affair or an extended public service message).

Each character is appropriately developed such that the viewer feels for them and relates with them. However, this time, Mohsin Ali’s writing saves the day.

Chemistry

The chemistry between Hania and Ali Rehman is another pleasant feature. Shani and Nazo are a supporting couple who understand each other as equal partners in their relationship, and they stand up for each other time and again. When they confine themselves to their ego – that’s when things fall apart in their relationship.

Challenging Norms

There are multiple occasions where stereotypical notions of “mardangi” are challenged and questioned. The film shows how manhood in a marriage is about empowering and supporting one’s life partner in their household to let them have their own lives.

Music And Choreography

The film is peppered with groovy songs and apt background score by the talented Aashir Wajahat. The choreography of Peela Rang, however, leaves much to be desired. Ali’s moves were particularly stiff in the song, but thankfully, it came as an end-credit song.

The Narrative

With its 90-minute span, the film is tight and compact, but the narrative remains predictable. Shani’s cousin as the second woman, and his uncle (Noor Hassan) could have been given more space, perhaps with the addition of a subplot where the father-daughter duo scheme to get Shani betrothed to his cousin, with his infertility being pivotal in hatching their conspiracy. Developing the supporting characters more and fusing their stories in the end could have added layers to the film.

The Verdict

Nevertheless the cast manages to divert attention from the shortcomings of a plain screenplay. Ali Rehman Khan and Hania Aamir’s on point performances, and Javed Sheikh’s comic timing along with his convincing act of a patriarch makes Parde Mein Rehne Do work.

It is indeed safe to say that Wajahat Rauf has treated the issue as a whole with considerable maturity and sensitivity.

From a social point of view, Parde Mein Rehne Do does have substance and relevance. It could be easily dubbed as Wajahat’s best work on the silver screen. As a socially relevant film Parde Mein Rehne Do deserves to be watched on the “pardas” of silver screen atleast one time for its subject matter and its sharp treatment.

Rating 3.5/5

Dum Mastam, With Strong Performances, Is Held Back By Screenplay

Film: Dum Mastam

Release Date: 3rd May 2022

Director: Mohammed Ehteshamuddin

Review By: Hassan Hassan

Dum Mastam, the Imran Ashraf-Amar Khan starring big screen debut, alongside critically acclaimed actor, Adnan Siddiqui’s maiden production venture, was one of the most awaited Eid releases this year. It can also be considered a film that may have arguably been the most difficult to conceive, develop, and execute amongst all the Eid releases.

Contrasting Opinions

The film is one such affair that will leave an impact by creating starkly conflicting and perplexing opinions about it, analogous to the central conflict on which it is based. How you find it as a film, depends totally on what you are looking for in a cinematic affair, especially when you are paying to get entertained in this age of soaring inflation.

The Plot

Set in ancient central Lahore, the story follows an ambitious girl Aliya (Amar Khan) and the lovable, street-smart Bao (Imran Ashraf). While Aliya’s world revolves around her aim to make it big in showbiz, Bao, a struggling singer, is more focused on winning Aliya’s heart.

Fate brings the pair at loggerheads with each other, when they dramatically face different outcomes of their endeavours to make it big in the glitzy world of glamor, and to achieve long-yearned love. How this one-sided, conflict-ridden journey of showbiz and love unfolds is for the viewer to experience on the big screen.

Analysis

While the story may seem interesting on paper, its transcription onto the big screen is unfortunately not as promising and fulfilling. The journey of Aliya and Bao is peppered with colorful and foot-tapping dance numbers, a handful of soulful songs, some stunning visuals, and ornate set and production designs.

However, the lack of attention on developing and exploring the central conflict in more detail makes Dum Mastam a mere pyrotechnic affair with a rudimentary storyline.

What Did And Did Not Work

Of all the Eid releases, Dum Mastam’s trailer was arguably the slickest and most articulately cut. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the film. The trailer promised a screenplay that seemed like a rollercoaster ride of emotions and conflict with a high dose of fast-paced musical drama, and stunning visuals. The film, however, is paradoxically slow paced, especially in the second half, with its basic story overstretched than its elastic limit.

The Cinematography

Salam Razaq’s cinematography – particularly in the first half, where the city of Lahore is captured in all its rustic grandeur and mystic beauty – combined with the visually appealing picturization of the songs across beautiful locales of Jhelum, Mangla and Interior Sindh, makes Dum Mastam the best visual affair this Eid.

The Music

Being a musical drama, Dum Mastam could not have had a better team than the likes of well-established names like Shiraz Uppal, Azaan Sami Khan, Shani Arshad, and Bilal Saeed.

The film has the best music album, with every song catering to a different mood. The music is soulful and ornately arranged. The crisp and colorful picturization makes it even more stunning. Kiran Malik’s cameo in the title song is a treat for sore eyes.

The Performances In Dum Mastam

Imran Ashraf as Bao, with his layered performance, is the real star of the show. He has glimpses of Bhola and Musa, and is lovable in each avatar. At such a young age, the actor has explored his range extensively and is a real asset for the Pakistani entertainment arena. The scene where he trims his hair in a conflict with Aliya is one of the best, amongst the many instances in Dum Mastam.

Closely following is Amar Khan, who is loud and headstrong in the first half, and broken and in despair in the second. Her performance may seem to go overboard in some places. However, she delivers one of the best performances of her career.

While the performances by the lead cast are bound to impress, the same can’t be said for most of the supporting cast. Saleem Mairaj as the sleazy manager/talent promoter, Momin Saqib as a plagiarising rockstar, and his accomplice Adnan Shah Tipu, are a tad bit disappointing, and even irksome most of the times. The only exception is Sohail Ahmad, as Bao’s father, who, despite being one-dimensional, is easy on the eyes and mind.

The Downside

Despite all its strong points, Dum Mastam leaves the audience asking for more, and an overall better experience, when it comes down to the story and screenplay. The conflict between the two leads remains repetitive and fatiguing for the viewers.

A lot of time is wasted on the supporting cast, like Gudu Razor, whose absence wouldn’t have affected the narrative in anyway. Perhaps, better casting, or a less caricature-esque character would have worked in Gudu’s favor.

Dum Mastam In Isolation

When seen in isolation, a majority of the scenes of Dum Mastam are perfectly written, constructed, directed, and performed. However, the same cannot be said when they combine in the form of a screenplay. It’s this experience that many viewers may find unappealing.

With all the hard work put into visuals, music, production design, and artwork, the makers should have focused equally on the script, screenplay, and editing of the film as a whole.

The Verdict

Dum Mastam can be enjoyed if you are a fan of great visuals, music, Imran Ashraf/Amar Khan, or have a penchant for strongly delivered dramatic performances. However, the screenplay does fall short, and if that’s a selling point for you, you may not find Dum Mastam an engrossing experience.

Rating 3/5

Fraud Starts Off With A Promising Bang

Fraud, a highly anticipated and much awaited Saba Qamar drama released last night with powerful performances and freshness. Written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah and directed by Saqib Khan, did it really live up to expectations?

The Story

Maya and Maira, played by Saba Qamar and Rabya Kulsoom respectively, are daughters to Nisaar, a principled, middle-class who has higher goals and bigger dreams for his daughters than what society expects. Mehmood Aslam’s portrayal of a straightforward yet humble father is brilliant. Nisaar’s widowed sister Shazia, played by Nazlee Nasar, lives with her only child Nael, played by ‘Ehd-e-Wafa’ famed Adnan Samad Khan. Nael is in love with Maya since childhood and now that he has a job, Nael forces his mother to ask for Maya’s hand from Nisaar.

Maya’s father, having financially supported these two their whole lives, instantly refuses the marriage proposal as he dreams of a financially stable and upper class family for his daughters. Heartbroken, Nael and Shazia leave but what will Maya’s reaction to her father’s decision be, given that she had also developed a soft corner for Nael?

The Review

Everything aside, watching Saba Qamar on screen is a delight in itself that viewers are experiencing after almost 4 years. The camera work and direction done for Fraud by Saqib Khan, a fresh name for television, is beyond excellent, as it makes the experience even better. The performances are another plus point for the show, which increase the intensity and emotion of each scene every time.

However, the first episode was not solely a Saba Qamar episode, which was expected by the audience. Maya seems to be just another character that any actress could have performed. The element that makes it an iconic one was missing in this episode. Be it Saba’s make-over which seemed unrealistic for a middle class household, or the lack of screen time and dialogues that Maya has, viewers definitely noticed these little things.

However, it’s just the first episode, so it is too soon to judge. We will wait for Saba’s character to unveil a bit more in the upcoming episodes. 

Ahsan Khan and Aini Zaidi’s grand entrances at the end were intriguing though.

The Verdict

Fraud kicked off last night and quite truly with a bang. The first episode contains impressive camera work, powerful performances, and an uber talented Saba Qamar, who blows your mind with her charm and screen presence.