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One Night Stand Challenges Norms Through Portrayal Of An Alcoholic

By
Armaan Shehreyaar
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The OTT medium is the freshest addition to Pakistan’s entertainment industry. It surely has the power, impact and freedom, that television, and in most cases, even films, do not have. With very less digital platforms and content comparatively, Pakistan is doing well while exploring new genres and sensitive storylines. One such project, One Night Stand was released by the Kabaar Khaana YouTube channel.

Synopsis

The basic concept is an eye opener as it talks about the position of a drug addict in society, i.e; how society usually treats an alcoholic and the stigma attached to such people. The film tries to question conventional mindsets and invoke subtle change within the same.

The Storyline

One Night Stand is around nine minutes long. The short film follows the story of an alcoholic Nadir, who is not who he seems to be at a first glance. The film also challenges the judgemental factions of society – people who jump to conclusions without knowing someone personally.

The Makers

The film is directed and produced by Rabia Hassan, a critic, and daughter to Lollywood’s celebrated star, Rani. It has been written by Hassan Malik. One Night Stand stars Saud Javed as Nadir, whose portrayal is par excellence.

Verdict

Short films and other such projects – regardless of the medium – seldom have messages. However, some ventures have so much impact, that they touch viewers’ hearts, regardless of their production budget or time duration. One Night Stand is that film.

Short Film Kalashnikov Makes Pakistan Proud At Cannes

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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An 18-minute short film titled Kalashnikov is creating a buzz, due to it making it to Cannes. In conversation with the mind behind the screenplay and direction, Mehroz Amin, we shed light on what Kalashnikov is all about.

Cast And Team

As mentioned above, Mehroz Amin has penned down the screenplay and has directed the short film as well. The cast includes Hamza Ghuyyur, (who has also penned down dialogues for the film) alongside other actors such as Afifa Shaikh, Nadir Sultan, and Mian Ayyaz. The film has been made under the banner of an independent production house called Chal Phir Cinema.

Storyline

The film is an 18 minute one take shot that follows the stories of the middle of a night where a young boy is selling eggs, a woman is rehearsing in a street corner, and a washed-up actor is giving an interview, reminiscing the golden era of Punjabi films – the 80s.

Kalashnikov And Cannes

Talking to Galaxy Lollywood about the journey to Cannes, Mehroz Amin states the following: “It’s a big struggle to make an independent film in Pakistan, and the biggest struggle is the financial aid.”

Explaining how Mehroz always wanted to make his family and country proud, he illustrates how Cannes is every filmmaker’s dream destination. However, there were budgetary constraints that had to be overcome. Moreover, participating in the primary competition became difficult due to the duration of the film. The short film corner served as a saving grace, where the film was eventually submitted.

“I didn’t have the money to pay,” reminisces Mehroz, regarding the submission fee, “so we, as a team, collected the money, which was around €55.”

Making Pakistan Proud

Kalashnikov is the only Pakistani short film this year at Cannes, amidst nine short films from India in the Short Film Corner. Undoubtedly, this is a moment of pride for Pakistan, and we would like to congratulate the entire team for this feat.

Box Office: Eid Films Struggle To Make A Splash

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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The 10-day week for Eid films, namely Ghabrana Nahi Hai, Dum Mastam, Parde Mein Rehne Do, Chakkar, and Tere Bajre Di Rakhi, has not proven as kind at the Box Office as the filmmakers had hoped for. As per trade analyst Ali Zain, our local Eid films struggled to gain traction on weekdays, and the following results are where Box Office collections stand thus far.

Ghabrana Nahi Hai

Leading the Eid film race is the Saba Qamar, Zahid Ahmed, and Syed Jibran starrer. Here’s a day-wise breakdown:

Tuesday ( Eid Day 1): 68 lacs

Wednesday ( Eid Day 2): 1.15 crore

Thursday ( Eid Day 3): 1.17 crore

Friday to Sunday: 1.7 crore

Weekdays: 1.3 crore

Total collection: 6 crore

Dum Mastam

Second in line is the Imran Ashraf and Amar Khan starrer. Here’s a day-wise breakdown:

Tuesday ( Eid Day 1): 65 lacs

Wednesday ( Eid Day 2): 1.11 crore

Thursday ( Eid Day 3): 1.08 crore

Friday to Sunday: 1.20 crore

Weekdays: 96 lacs

Total collection over 10 days: 5 crore

Parde Mein Rehne Do

The Ali Rehman and Hania Aamir starrer is at the third spot. Here’s a day-wise breakdown:

Tuesday ( Eid Day 1): 44 lacs

Wednesday ( Eid Day 2): 76 lacs

Thursday ( Eid Day 3): 75 lacs

Friday to Sunday: 60 lacs

Weekdays: 45 lacs

Total collection over 10 days: 2.95 crore

Chakkar

The Ahsan Khan, Neelam Muneer, and Yasir Nawaz starrer, with far lesser show slots, is at the last spot. Here’s a day-wise breakdown:

Tuesday ( Eid Day 1): 28 lacs

Wednesday ( Eid Day 2): 54 lacs

Thursday ( Eid Day 3): 50 lacs

Friday to Sunday: 40 lacs

Weekdays: 38 lacs

Total collection over 10 days: 2.1 crores

Analysis

An addition to this list, albeit without a daily breakdown, is Tere Bajre Di Rakhi, that has amassed a combined sum of 80 lacs over the past 10 days.

Where the Box Office collection for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness stood at staggering 7 crores last week alone, official numbers for the film have yet to be announced. However, given the way things have shaken out in terms of shows and slots, one can expect the number to have risen significantly.

While this does not bode well for local releases so far, a massive pick-up during the course of the second week proves to be extremely crucial.

Yasir Nawaz Asks Alizeh Shah To Forget Past Feud, Focus On Future

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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The Yasir Nawaz and Alizeh Shah feud, that arose a while back after an interview Yasir gave, may finally be coming to a halt after the director-cum-actor sat down in a recent interview to address the Tana Bana starlet.

Yasir Nawaz Issues Clarification

In a recent sit-down, Yasir Nawaz stated that he wants Alizeh Shah to forget about whatever he said in the past. Instead, he advises the young actor to focus on her future and work hard. He goes on to highlight certain issues, such as her acting and timings, and asks her to work on these problems.

Moreover, the Chakkar actor and director also states that he has to work, and issues of these sorts often come back. He states that he is upset about naming her, and explains that often, he says things he should not.

Yasir Nawaz’s Initial Statement

Earlier, while sitting across Ahsan Khan and with his wife, Nida Yasir, on Time Out with Ahsan Khan, Yasir Nawaz and Nida Yasir shared how the former had trouble working with Alizeh Shah. Nida went on to state that the two did not have enough chemistry. Moreover, Yasir stated that he believed actors must keep their private life separate from their role.

Alizeh Shah’s Response To Initial Statements

Alizeh Shah opened up in an interview with Ali Safina, stating her belief that everyone is different, and everyone connects to others differently. She likened drama sets to families, where opinions can clash, and went on to state that people must expect others to behave, as they themselves behave with others. She capped off her statement by saying that if someone misbehaved with her she would not stay quiet and would respond.

An End To The Yasir Nawaz – Alizeh Shah Feud?

Perhaps, the matter will finally be laid to rest, after Yasir Nawaz’s recent statements. Truly, the industry is filled with all kinds of people, but given how intertwined it is, maintaining peace must be of the utmost importance.

What is your take on this? Let us know in the comments.

Meray Humnasheen Kicks Off As A Compelling Watch

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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The teasers of Meray Humnasheen set expectations sky high for the new drama, that not only has a promising cast, but also has an intriguing storyline, highlighting the values of people in northern Pakistan, combined with the struggles that are associated with concepts like honor and vengeance.

The Team

Meray Humnasheen has been written by Misbah Ali Syed, and directed by Ali Faizan. The drama has been produced by 7th Sky Entertainment (Abdullah Kadwani & Asad Qureshi), and features an interesting mix of actors, such as Ahsan Khan, Hiba Bukhari, Shehzad Sheikh, Syed Jibran and many others.

The Story

Khajista (Hiba Bukhari), is a young, intelligent woman who dreams of becoming a doctor. This dream is fueled by the loss of her mother during her childhood.

However, the ill-tempered Darakhzai (Ahsan Khan), her cousin and fiancé, does not wish for her to be too ambitious, and wants to exert control, ensuring that she has as little agency as possible.

In comes composed and good-natured Hadi (Shehzad Sheikh), who is a final year medical student in the same college as Khajista. Educated and well-off, in many ways, his character is the antithesis of Darakhzai.

His first encounter with Khajista furthers the plot, where the duo are left with intriguing feelings for each other, thereby sowing the seeds for the ensuing love triangle.

The Performances

Ahsan Khan makes for a foreboding and intense Darakhzai, bringing the character to live, and pumping shades of darkness into his performance.

Hiba Bukhari is highly likeable as the resolute girl from the mountains, and holds her own in front of the two stars opposite whom she is paired.

Shehzad Sheikh makes viewers appreciate and fall in love with Hadi with the utmost ease. Moreover, we must appreciate the fresh on-screen pairing that is seeming to work thus far, i.e; Ahsan Khan, Shehzad Sheikh, and Hiba Bukhari constituting an impending conflict in love.

We are also introduced to other characters, such as Amroz Khan (Syed Jibran), Shanzay (Momina Iqbal), Sandberg (Meher Bano), Daar Ji (Rehan Sheikh), Moray (Munazza Arif), and Hassan (Haris Waheed), among others.

Verdict So Far

Paired with stunning cinematography and engaging performances, Meray Humnasheen is chalking up to be a must-watch that will surely take audiences for an emotional and mental ride.

A Complete Breakdown Of The Aijaz Aslam – Urwa Hocane Fiasco

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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Miscommunication, taking things out of context, and passing on things one may have heard – all of these are recipes for chaos, and that has been proven true once again when it comes to Aijaz Aslam and Urwa Hocane.

Aijaz Aslam And Aagha Ali

When promoted in conversation repeatedly by Aagha Ali on a show, Aijaz Aslam had to answer a question about a younger star who is either known to misbehave on set, or is known to have been rude, making her hard to work with.

In the clip, Aijaz is seen hesitating to answer, stating that everyone treats him with respect. However, upon constant prompting, the actor seems to cave and state that while he has not faced anything personally, he has heard that Urwa Hocane can be difficult to work with.

Urwa Hocane Responds

In turn, Urwa Hocane issued a statement, responding to the “baseless allegations” that were circulating about her. She explains that she is respectful of her seniors in the fraternity, and emphasizes that seniors too must be mindful of the responsibility they have towards younger actors, keeping in mind how their words can deeply impact the “image, mind, and even work” of these younger stars.

She calls herself “creatively charged,” and states that she always indulges in “healthy discussions” with her directors and producers.

Urwa then goes on to state that she is certain that the senior actor meant no harm, given that they do not know each other personally, nor have they ever starred together. However, she does state that “irresponsible statements leave us at a mercy of internet trolls, therefore everyone must watch what they say in public about someone else, especially when it’s mere hearsay.”

She ends her statement by thanking Aagha Ali and Hina Aagha, who understood the gravity of the situation and did not become party to it.

Aijaz Aslam Issues Clarification

Shortly after, Aijaz Aslam was quick to respond, given that the clip has circulated quite a bit, causing a stir. He clarifies that he has never worked with, or been ill treated by Urwa Hocane. He explains how he answered a multiple choice question, and even then, stressed on how his answer borrowed from what people said and there may not be much truth to it. He requests people to stop maligning others on his behalf, capping his statement off with respect for all his industry colleagues.

What’s your take on this situation? Let us know in the comments.

Kaisi Teri Khudgharzi Begins On A Clichéd, But Crisp Note

By
Ifrah Butt
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It seems like we are to experience Danish Taimoor playing a rich, spoilt man again, this time for ARY Digital, in a project titled, Kaisi Teri Khudgharzi, starring Danish Taimoor and Durefishan Saleem in the lead. The drama kicked off yesterday on a very clichéd note.

The Story

Shamsher is a spoiled son of a spoiled father who often takes money and power for granted. Shamsher takes keenly after his father and goes to any lengths to get whatever strikes his fancy. If he likes a hotel he eats at, he goes on to acquire it, and is cruel enough to have the owner beaten.

In a parallel universe, we have Maha’s closeknit family that celebrates even the tiniest bit of happiness that comes their way. While Shamsher comes from wealth and power, Maha has a middle class background. Her father is a humble lecturer and her mother is a housemaker who focuses on her family the most. As a result, the family is ready to take a bullet for one another.

The Breakdown

The meeting happens when Shamsher is aggravated at a biker on the road and Maha’s father intervenes to buffer the situation. While Shamsher draws a gun, Maha’s family, along with her sister and fiance, hurries out to drag back the father to save him.

This is love at first sight, because Shamsher falls in love with Maha, who he sees is concerned for her father. He then sets his friend Shahmeer on the task to find everything about the girl.

The Performances

Danish Taimoor as Shamsher does not seem to offer much of what already hasn’t been seen. We have seen him playing the same role opposite Hiba Bukhari and Sanam Chaudhry in Deewangi and Ab Dekh Khuda Kia Karta Hai. Naumaan Ijaz as Dilawar is his usual charismatic self, and Shahood Alvi is impressive as Maha’s father. Durefishan as Maha is also convincing in her role.

For Durefishan, Maha’s character is refreshingly new, since this is definitely different than what she has played before. Hammad Shoaib as Ahsan and Laiba Khan as Maha’s sister are convincing in their particular roles but we’d like to see more of their characters onscreen as well.

Verdict So Far

Following Radain Shah’s story, Ahmed Bhatti has given proper direction. The first episode came of as crisp and without any drag. Our concern is regarding the story, because it seems like yet another tale of a wealthy boy falling in love with a less well-off girl and chaos ensuing. However, it might be far too soon to pass definitive judgments just yet. Regardless, the Kaisi Teri Khudgharzi is engaging.

What do you think about it? Let us know in the comments.

Kamli Mesmerizes With Soulful Music About Love, Loss, And Pain

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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What can one begin to state about Sarmad Khoosat that hasn’t already been said? In so many ways, words fail to fully encapsulate the brilliance of his art, and the impact it leaves on those who get to experience it. His upcoming project, Kamli, has already begun winning over audiences, and the songs that are associated with the project, that have been released recently, add to the overall allure.

Kamli: The Project

One glance at the teaser trailer for Sarmad Khoosat’s upcoming, haunting tale of love, loss and secrets reveals the film to be an engaging, beautiful experience from the get-go. Kamli stars Saba Qamar, Sania Saeed, Nimra Bucha, Omair Rana, Adeel Afzal, Iman Shahid, and is also introducing Hamza Khawaja.

Mukhra: Atif Aslam

Atif Aslam is capable of creating magic with his voice, and coupled with Baba Bulleh Shah’s poetry, he makes Mukhra the perfect song that encompasses a tale of playful passion. Zulfiqar Ali’s composition meets music by Saad Sultan in a stunning amalgam that dictates the need for exploration in love. Moreover, the video, which has been choreographed by Gillian Rhodes, is brimming with the richness of intensity and longing.

Kaash: Zeb Bangash ft Sohail Shahzad

This saccharine narration of yearning in love is an absolute treat for the ears, enveloping one in a melodic daze. It encapsulates the frenzy and fears associated with falling in love, while also presenting itself as a carefree abandonment of the self in the name of affection. Paired with visuals of the lead duo on their journey in love, this composition by Saad Sultan is, undoubtedly, a thing of beauty.

Mainu Tu: Reshma Jee

Composed and written by Izzat Majeed, with music by Saad Sultan, the legend that is Reshma Jee takes the metaphorical wheel in this song, and drives us, as listeners, into a world of pain that can only be associated with love. A plea to one’s lover to remain steadfast during the journey, Reshma Jee’s soulful voice, intertwined with the heartfelt lyrics, sings out to the beloved, letting them know of their significance, while asking them to stay.

Brilliance In Art

There’s a spark in Pakistani music that can neither be denied, nor ignored, and the tracks thus far associated with Kamli are a testament to the same. Not only does the film hold great promise within its premise and presentation, the music, too, proves that this is a film that, undoubtedly, has a lot of heart.

The film is set to release on June 3rd 2022.

Aaloo Qeema Discussion Makes Saba Qamar Share Marriage Plans

By
Sajeer Shaikh
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In a recent sit-down with Nida Yasir, Saba Qamar opened up about her alleged marriage plans, albeit briefly, and in a tongue-in-cheek, coy manner. The superstar has accumulated an immense amount of acclaim as an actor, but her personal life has always been speculated over, given there is a limited amount of detail pertaining to it.

Saba Qamar And Aaloo Qeema

Who would have thought that aaloo qeema would catapult a conversation towards marriage plans? That’s right – the actor shared how she wanted to learn how to make aaloo qeema, and Nida Yasir was quick to follow-up up with, “Kis ke liye aaloo qeema seekhna hai?”

The Reveal

To this, Saba Qamar seems to feign a shy look, eyes downcast, and Nida Yasir jokingly states that the crew is laughing as well, given they’re the viewers. Saba responds by suggesting that it is the crew who promoted the question, to begin with, and reveals that there is, in fact, someone, and she will reveal everything in due time.

When, Though?

When Nida Yasir asks when that due time will arrive, when people will get to see Saba Qamar’s hands laden with henna, the star responded with, “Soon, InshAllah.” When Nida Yasir continues with her line of questioning, the Ghabrana Nahi Hai star hides her face in her dupatta shyly, stating that she’s feeling embarrassed.

The Function

Saba Qamar also goes onto state that while every woman does hope to get married, her news might make waves soon enough. She leaves people guessing, and even teases audiences and the host by saying that she might just have the event done secretly, and announce the news in a post.

Viral Wedding

When probed further, she reveals that she does not want to invite too many people, and only wants those closest to her in attendance, picturing an intimate wedding setup. However, publicity was definitely on the actor’s mind, as she jokes that she would invite members of the media so that the news goes viral.

Our Thoughts

Undoubtedly, Saba Qamar is one the most talented stars of whom Pakistan can boast. While marriage is not the epitome of success, nor a definitive marker of happiness, it would be safe to state that Pakistanis would rejoice, and be elated for Saba Qamar when she ties the knot and sails into the sunset with this apparent mystery man.

Habs Takes A Promising Start With Impactful Performances

By
Armaan Shehreyaar
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Following all the hype that has built around its teasers and star cast, Habs started off last night with an entertaining first episode. The Feroze Khan and Ushna Shah starrer tackles issues related to marital relationships and the dynamics of this lifetime companionship.

The Story

Habs revolves around two families and their internal complications in order to maintain a balance between relationships and societal norms. Ushna Shah plays Ayesha, an educated and ambitious girl who lives in a women-oriented household.

Where her mother and elder sister, played by Saba Faisal and Dania Enwer respectively, are managing the bread and butter, an unmarried aunt, portrayed by Hina Rizvi, is struggling to contribute to the budget. Since the eldest sibling of the three sisters has to get married, Ayesha is forced to find a job and take over the role of her elder sister.

Basit, on the other hand, played by Feroze Khan, is a young businessman who is completely shattered by his father’s death. He gets another big shock when his father’s will reveals that he needs to get married in order to inherit the property. While it seems to be an apparently typical storyline – with a charming young boy and a damsel in distress – it certainly offers more than what meets the eye.

Unique Elements

What a delight it was to see Ayesha clapping back at the evil firm chairman! Habs raised the issue of workplace harassment in the first episode and had viewers impressed at a first glace. Moreover, Basit’s role is of a guy who has been through loneliness, negligence, and indifference as a child by his own mother. Irsa Ghazal plays a graceful and composed woman here, who abandoned her husband and son years ago for someone else, and has now returned in her son’s life.

The Performances

One can expect good performances from such a bunch of talented artists already. However, Feroze Khan’s portrayal of this disturbed young boy deprived of a mother’s love is pretty impactful, and deserves a special mention. The rest of the actors perform with due diligence as well.

The Verdict So Far

Habs totally lives up to all the hype and expectations with an impressive introductory episode, and engaging performances.

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