In the Name of God (2007) User Reviews

Brilliant ,Brilliant, Absolutely Brilliant!

[nadiahaque · 9/10 · 11 September 2007]

"In the name of God" or "Khuda kay liye" portrays the dilemma that every Muslim living abroad and at home faces in present time. It is also an internal war between the moderates and fanatics apart from the outside battle they are fighting within their own world. Frustrated and victimised by generalisations and self righteousness from the fanatic religious groups and authorities both of which lack a deep understanding of how cultural values and religion both entwine to make up Muslims. While not without faith the moderates seem to be paying highest price for this war on terror. How does a moderate Muslim survive this war? What happens when there is clash of fundamentalism.

PROS: Well knit story, although the editing is a bit choppy at times, good cinematography, good script, very true to reality and good acting by Rasheed Naz, Naeem Tahir, Shaan, newcomer Fawad Khan and of course the one and only Naseer ud din Shah. The film leaves you with questions which is more than any Pakistani film has ever done.

CONS: While this film has made big leaps into bringing Pakistani Cinema on the map of the International Cinema. I just think that a little bit of attention to detail would have made it an exceptional film by international standards e.g. Shan could have lost more weight while in the cell, he still looks like he is working out for a marathon. Iman's British accent is a bit funny. Still a brilliant film and better than most bollywood films because it sticks close to reality and deals with very relevant and sensitive issues.

Note: I just wish that they would have released it in other countries especially in the gulf simultaneously as it would have attracted a larger more empathetic audience than Pakistan. Let's hope it does well in the international film festivals.

It can't get more real than this

[aqifali · 9/10 · 30 September 2007]

To actually see a movie from Pakistan in which actors are talking and not yelling was a pleasant surprise but as the movie progressed it completely blew my mind off for being so real. This movie take its viewer right in to the world of Pakistanis who are either living in Pakistan or residing abroad especially in western world. It realistically portrays life in Pakistan where people are caught between the hardliner religious scholars and carrying the normal activities and pleasures in life. It also shows the dilemma of overseas Pakistanis when they see their children being brought up in a western society. Finally, it painfully shows what has happened to many Pakistanis that have been targeted by western people and law after 9/11. The greatest service that this movie has done is to show the world that how difficult it is right now to be Pakistani and I can't say much more than that.

On the side of acting all the actors did justice to their characters. Shaan (Mansoor) was at his best and I must admit that I never thought that Shaan could deliver such a powerful performance after seeing his mindless Punjabi movies. His acting, while being tortured by law was realistic to a frightening extent. After watching the movie I felt that huge amount of research must have gone on the background as every situation looked near to reality. For example, the way Government Political Agent approached tribal council was very realistic.

Amidst all the painful realities the film does give a ray of hope in the end when Iman Ali (Maryam/Marry) opens a girl's school in tribal area. I guess it was necessary for the artist (Shoaib Mansoor-director) to give hope in the end. Although, sadly speaking that ray of hope is still no way near in sight to Pakistani society as during the last few years, many of the girls schools in northern area of Pakistan have either been bombed or closed down as a result of threats and I am afraid that Maryam school might have been one of them.

A Must Watch...

[krish-gaurav09 · 8/10 · 10 April 2008]

This is one of the best..or in fact the best movies to come out of Pakistan in a long long time. Considering the perceived conservative situation prevailing in that country ,this is indeed a brave and laudable effort. The story surrounds the two brothers from Lahore and how their lives are affected by the after math of 9/11 crises. It also shows the travails of the England educated Pakistani girl Mary..who becomes an innocent victim of the skewed up logic or her hypo critic father. The two brothers are essentially music lovers, while one of them goes to US for furthering his musical education, the other one gets caught up in the teachings of fundamentalists Muslims and gives up his music. The girl Mary on the other hand is tricked into marrying in Pakistan when her father discovers that she has fallen in love with an English man. During the same time 9/11 happens and these educated persons fall prey to the adverse conditions surrounding them. The story of the film is remarkable as it clearly shows the aftermath of 9/11 crises on young educated Muslims. The movie picks up slowly with amateurish acting being done by some of the actors. But the story and smart screen play more than make up for it. In fact by second half one is riveted to his seat as the story takes it affect on you.There are quite a few great moments in the film but the one in which Mary tries to runaway from her captors in Afghanistan is especially heart rendering. Among the actors the lead actor Shaan and the actress playing Mary do a good job, but the final master stroke comes from the great Naseerudin Shah ,towards the end of the movie. Special mention must be made of the excellent back ground music of the film. It helps to convey the mood the film and stays with you even after the movie is finished. This is essentially a great film as it has its heart in the right place. It handles the issue of Islamic fundamentalism and the Muslim society with a humane touch without ever once going over the top. It takes a very objective view of the prevailing Pakistani society and should act as an eye opener for the western world. Finally being an Indian, anything concerning Pakistan is always of some interest to us,may be good or bad. At least for me this was a great eye opener. I came to realize that many of us Indians have totally false image of the society in Pakistan. This film show what a great country Pakistan is and the people in both country share the same values of peace and love at heart. The film also shows the importance of creative freedom for a society and hats off to Shoiab Mansoor,the director of the film for coming up with such a masterpiece!!!.

strongly recommended

[niceali_15 · 10/10 · 24 July 2007]

When someone says "revival of Pakistani cinema" about a film u expect something out of it and then one looks at the team and sees names of the best lot of people available in the country and the expectations rise. after seeing the trailers of Khuda Ke Liye one expects nothing short of the sky.

So does it deliver is the real question??? Shoaib Mansoor along with his whole team claims that he has created something big. Unfortunately Khuda Ke Liye isn't that big. It's even bigger!!!

Its the story of two brothers, played by Shaan and Fawad khan. Who are musicians and are born in a well-to-do family of Lahore. Then in very little time their lives change as the younger brother Sarmad(Fawad Khan) chooses a path for himself that none of his family members ever thought he would. Inspiration for such a path comes from a Maulana of the mosque.

Iman Ali plays Marry a girl born to a Pakistani British citizen. who wants to marry a British Christan boy against the will of her father. Naseer-Uddin-Shah plays a moderate Mowlana as a guest appearance.

The movie as is being usually thought of does not ONLY cater the issue of fundamentalism in Islam it also tackles other issues such as Pakistanis born and brought up in foreign lands and their issues and post 9/11 problems faced by Muslims.

Director Shoaib Mansoor gets it right as usual the writing is also perfect. he very easily balances the stories running together. The screenplay is perfect and the picture quality is top notch. the music is also perfect and never does it hamper the story flow. lyrics are also good.

Acting wise Shaan(Mansoor) proves that why he is considered as the best in the industry, he plays the modern Muslim boy brilliantly. Fawad Khan makes a superb debut he portrays the various shades of Sarmad's persona superbly. Rasheed Naz, Seemi Raheel and Hammed Sheikh are all superb and play their parts with great ease.

Khuda Ke Liye goes into a territory that no Pakistani movie-maker has ventured into ever. It not only deals with the issue of fundamentalism in Islam and how it is destroying our society but also other important issues faced by Muslims around the globe.

A Stepping Stone in the Way of Critical Thinking Among Muslim Masses!!!

[rumyk · 10/10 · 26 October 2007]

An excellent production by an extremely talented writer & director. I am a Pakistani living in the UAE, living in harmony with lots of Indian friends here. I watched this movie on its very first day of release here and found it much well presented than expected.

Some ideas are debatable but it is a positive sign that people are now bringing up the issues which were thought to be entirely forbidden in Islam although not proved as forbidden. It shows the real issues in our Pakistani homes, like the issue of Hijab for an aged mother and the people living with double standards in life!

The same thing happened to my fiancé & cousin when he turned towards such fundamentalists and rejected all of our family as he thought we were not practising Muslims. Then he got married with a lady Mujahida who is a preacher as well and they are happily settled!! Well, this is the reality and we have to face all this. This film was also made by the director for his famous pop singer friend Juned Jamshed ( Vital Signs Group), who turned away from music and now has become a staunch supporter of preaching and Islamic Tableeghi Jamaat.

I hope this film will start a revolution of CRITICAL THINKING among Muslim masses around the world, which has been non-existent for the last few centuries.This means not only to believe what you listen but ask questions to yourself too and listen to your conscience, which is always encouraged in Islam.

It may also send the message across the border for our Muslim Indians to be positive about their religious identity , as in both the countries, Muslims are suffering from the same crisis. May God show us all the right path. Amen

Revival of Pakistani cinema

[isotope_3 · 10/10 · 3 August 2007]

This movie has done a pretty good job to Revive Pakistani cinema, many good and educated families for the very first time visited cinemas and public response about KKL was superb. Cinemas houses were packed and even lot of people come back home again for the next show or waited in a long queue to watch this movie. Shoaib Mansoor is a brilliant director and film producer, his new venture was like a RAPID FIRE which burnt the whole country crowd with fumes of excitement and applause.We expect that he will continue this effort of giving good movies to Pakistan Film Industry which is almost dead.We are proud of legendary star - Mr Shoaib Mansoor.

True revival of Pakistani Cinema....

[Ashleshy · 10/10 · 22 July 2007]

When i was entering the cinema hall in Lahore on the first day of its release,i thought i was the only female who was going to watch the film as our families have stopped visiting the cinema cause of the type of films that are being made nowadays....But i was shocked n surprised to see lot of girls coming into the cinema with their family members to watch this master piece by Pakistan's finest director or should i say the only brilliant director we have,the great, Shoaib Mansoor....

"Khuda Kay liye" is a masterpiece...Every Pakistani should be proud of the fact that this film is made in our country...when everyone thought that PAkistani Cinema is dead...Khuda Kay liye came at the right time and have played a major part in revival of our cinema....

What shud i say about the movie...everyone Pakistani should visit the cinema at least once to watch this movie n also to contribute a bit in the revival of our industry....

Hats of to Shaan,Fawad Khan n Imaan Ali for their great performances...i am not a big fan of shaan but was actually surprised to see such a brilliant performance by him...if given a chance he can beat any actor from across the border or anywhere in the world...Fawad was also quite gud in his role...lets say he fitted well...Iman Ali was also quite surprising...coming from a modeling background i never expected her to be so believable in the role she waz doing...gr8 work by every actor...

One person who needs a special mention here is Naseeruddin shah....i dun have to say anything about him...he is truly a legend....he proved that when it comes to a great cinema it cannot be completed without him being their cuz he himself is an integral part of it...his every dialog,every move will make u glued to ur seats...u just have to see the movie to know what i am talking about...

And lastly i would actually like to thank Shoaib Mansoor for giving us such a beautiful and did i mention thought provoking film...its a film that we can be proud of...if such films are being continuously made we will soon say bye bye to all those crappy stuff from across the border....

First movie from main stream Pakistani cinema that outclasses many from the west

[genrex-1 · 10/10 · 22 July 2007]

Where should I start? The masterpiece Shoaib Mansoor has crafted or the message that hits so hard or the atmospheric music or the acting talents of Shan or the great screenplay or the amazing camera-work? For Pakistan this was more than a movie. It was a start of a revolution. It was a start of a movement. It signaled the rise of the moderates and the logics. From the first hint that started appearing on the net 3 years ago that Shoaib Mansoor is directing a movie to the teaser aired on TV to the actual movie, It has been an uphill task and has been achieved by the cast and crew outstandingly. I would not even think of comparing this movie to any other Pakistani movie as this one is light years ahead in every single department. Next most obvious choice would be to compare it to bollywood tish tosh. But really, you cant. This movie deals with hard hitting ground breaking realities rather than a carousel of perked up stars singing in the rain. I will be bold and optimistic enough to compare it to any good movie coming out of Europe or Hollywood. Agreeably, the movie has its weaknesses. Some acting and initial plot line almost made me think "Ok, nice try but couldn't cut it!". In comes the second half of the film and that scene with Naseer Uddin Shah at the court and everything changes. That scene will live down in history as the single most beautifully and researched written dialog Pakistan cinema has ever seen. A cinema hall filled to the brim clapping at every punch line delivered by Naseer Uddin Shah was a testament to the giganticness of the scene. The movie revolves around a Pakistani young man (Shaan) who goes to the United States of America for higher education. During his study years, the tragic event of 9/11 takes place where the World Trade Center is turned into dust. In a long array of investigations and arrests, the young man gets arrested by the American authorities; and his younger brother is being motivated by his old friend Shershah (Hameed Sheikh) on the path of God and to quit all musical activities in favor of the "straight" path. Meanwhile, his uncle (Humayun Kazmi) arrives from UK with his only cousin Mary (Iman Ali) who wanted to marry her non-Muslim boyfriend back in the UK against her family's wishes. He brings her to Pakistan where Shershah trucks them to their village in a tribal area near Afghanistan. They try to escape but Shershah follows her and brings her back to the village. The experiences of the young man are shown in this movie. There are plenty of other issues that are highlighted in this film. Iman Ali makes her cinema debut with this film, and enacts the character of a Pakistani-Briton. Shaan's wife is played by Austin Sayre whilst the young music prodigy Ahmed Jahanzeb along with Shuja Haider (composer of anti-terrorism song Yeh Hum Naheen) produced the soundtrack of the film. Acting overall is top-notch. Shaan has played probably the best acting role in his life. Along with him, Naseer Uddin Shah and Rasheed Naz were the preeminent actors. Fawad Khan and Iman Ali did their best with no experience in films. Hameed Sheikh was also fitting in his role. Austin Marie Sayre has a great career to look forward to.

The cinematography and the production level of the film is as good as any Hollywood flick. For once the movie editing is also on par. The only weak area was probably sound dubbing in certain scenes (especially the one in court with NGO ladies screaming). A whole different review can be written for the soundtrack of the movie. I will briefly describe it as the best soundtrack to any movie in Pakistan or India. Even this statement does not show any evidence of just how good and atmospheric the music is. The best way probably would be to have you listen to 'Allah Hoo' and 'Bandaya'. The two gems that pretty much justify every penny spent on buying the soundtrack. Then there is 'Mahi vay'. These tracks are so melodically haunting on their own, it is hard to imagine Shoaib can amplify the impact ten folds by synchronizing them pixel perfect to the visual treat. But he did. These songs will make your emotions flow and take a worm hole to another dimension in a cinema full of thousands of people.

As I mentioned at the start of this movie review, this is not merely a movie. It is impossible to express the impact of the movie with mere words. It is the thought it provokes, the courage by which it has been done, the un-biased ness of the movie that matters the most. How the storyline shows the good and bad of each side really leaves no argument for any side opposing it. Every aspect of the movie shows the truth which is hard to deny. The best experience of the movie did not appear on the screen, it appeared in the crowd sitting with me watching the movie. The standing ovation, the clap on every thousand ton argument made. It gave the viewers a chance to think, and to the thinkers a strength.

Hats off to Shoaib Mansoor for giving the gift of hope to the whole nation. The try alone would have made me give this movie a maximum rating. What has been achieved cannot be accredited by 5 stars. The rating should be something like 10 out of 5. Rather than reading this review, you should be investing your time in watching this movie right away at the cinema. Watching once, wont be enough. Watch it again and again.

Rating * * * * * 5/5

My Introduction to Lollywood....

[Souvik · 10/10 · 4 April 2008]

This is the first Pakisthani Film I saw. And it made me write a review after a long time. It also made a very important change to the way I thought about the great country called Pakisthan. But lets come to that later. First the movie. What can I say? I believe this is one of the greatest movies ever to be made in Asia, or for that matter - in the world. 'khuda ke liye' is tremendous in terms of direction, Story, acting, music, drama.... what not? The list is endless. I wont really go into the details of the story. I believe this movie is to be seen to know and understand the story. I will just say this movie made me rethink. Being an Indian I never really had very high regards for Lollywood movies I must confess. But this movie changed all that. Now I want to watch more and more of this great country and the great industry called Lollywood. You rock! I remember seeing Shaan, one of the lead actors, in a music video before. I can never forget his appearance. He has the great persona of a magnificent actor. When I saw him in 'Khuda Ke Liye' I was stunned. He is too intense. You have to see him to believe me really. The director of the movie has, in all practicality, done a great job. I had heard that he is one of the greatest that Pakisthan has. I do disagree. He is by far one of the greatest that the world has seen. This movie has knocked me down. Coming to the end I must say this also changed my idea of the country called Pakisthan. This country is much greater than what we are lead to believe.If what we see in the film is true the Pakisthan is undoubtedly one of the most modern and human society that we have seen. Now that I have fallen in love with Lollywood let me now stop and proceed to dig up some more great movie-making from Pakisthan. Kudos for a job very well done!

10/10.

Totally Awesome Movie

[riziriz · 25 July 2007]

salamz Through out my life i lived with this regret that Pakistan never produced a movie worth even talking but this movie made me feel very proud of being Pakistani.

Making movie on such a controversial topic is really a bold move by Shoaib Mansoor.

I appreciate Geo Movies to come up with such a wonderful movie.

Here in my city they say 'jainay Lahore nai takya o jamya nai' (meaning ye ain't born if ye didn't see Lahore) but now i say you haven't watched a real movie if you haven't watched ' khuda kay liay' I totally recommend this movie to ALL Pakistani Nation.

cheerz n smilez rizi

What would eminem do in Pakistan?

[MikeyB1793 · 7/10 · 22 March 2009]

There's a lot going on in this movie - it takes in a broad swath of events and issues. Here are some of them – the banning of music, forced marriage, the Taliban, incarceration and torture in post 9/11 U.S.A., religious indoctrination and stupidity…

This movie gets an 'A' for effort; it does keep you watching and it probes well into a lot of issues.

A French magazine recently had as its' headline that Pakistan was the most dangerous country on the planet. This is borne out in this movie – you know your country is in serious trouble when religious zealots are forcing conversations in the courtrooms of the nation about whether music should be permissible and if a beard is a requirement for religious devotion.

The demonization of religion is well brought out in this movie – the religious imam is well portrayed. One can see how these characters can prey on young men and indoctrinate them into their cult. But the dialogue, at times, is pretty pedestrian and 2 of the women are real dolts. There is the live-in girlfriend of the Pakistani man in London and a Chicago blonde.

One son of a family in Lahore is converted into Islamic fundamentalism. He abandons his musical career because he is led to believe by the religious zealots that music is un-Islamic. He goes to Afghanistan where he enters a forced marriage with a Muslim woman from London. The life in Afghanistan for the women looks a little too rosy and happy. I think it would be far more repressive, particularly for women, than is presented in this film. Also the Pakistani family in Lahore is very well off - there is no show of poverty, like in the film 'Slumdog Millionaire'.

The other son of the Lahore family pursues his musical career and winds up in Chicago and marries a dumb Chicago blonde. For this he is tortured relentlessly by the cronies of George Bush. No, really it's because he is a victim of his ethnic origins and the Yanks think he is a Bin Laden accomplice. It's a good thing for him that they don't discover that his brother is a religious jihadist in Afghanistan.

The ending is a little too far-fetched. After the London Muslim woman's forced marriage is annulled (and even that was dubious after all the religious claptrap in the courts) she goes back to Afghanistan instead of London. Why she would risk her life going back to a clay compound where she would surely be physically abused for her insolent ways is beyond me. And then her ex-husband returns to the Imams who physically beat him in the court-room. Surely he would be risking his neck by doing so. Instead, such a person, who afoul of the religious fanatics, would have to go into seclusion.

And I REALLY enjoyed the music in this film!

about movie

[imranchandio56 · 10/10 · 6 August 2007]

Friends after watching KHUDA K LYE I realize why in our teenage we die to watch ALPHA BRAVO CHARLIE n SUNHERY DIN, because these are our own stories, the real image of our society. KHUDA K LYE is not only a movie; this is mirror of scattered Pakistani Society. this movie has change the mind of young Pakistani people. Friends I feel proud that I witnessed this ICON. Today I really say I proud to be a country fellow of SHOIB MANSOOR. this movie is also going to release in USA and UK, so I ask Asian community to go there and watch this movie. You Should be surprise to see this. this is a complete Film which shows the problem that Muslims are facing after 9/11

A debut attempt – for the director, and the country's film industry.

[nomanali77 · 7/10 · 28 October 2007]

Being a proud Pakistani, I bought tickets in advance to make sure that I'm one of the first people to watch the film. I had read a lot of snippets from reviews where the movie is regarded as praise-worthy. I do have a few comments of my own, though.

The first few shots of the film are slow, and in retrospect, seem unnecessary. The first hour goes by rather slow, and I think the added touches of color filters and silence slow it down further. One can pick at least 15-20 minutes that could've been done away with easily. In addition to that, the audience is subjected to some bad acting, particularly by the actor who plays Hussain Shah Khan (Maryam's dad) and Iman Ali (Maryam). Actually, I won't say that Iman Ali is a bad actor, but that fake British accent was too obvious, and added to the distraction. The actor who played her dad was really bad... he just couldn't pull any scene off! Also, a lot of the humor seemed misplaced... I mean, what was that cheap stunt about Maryam's father leaving the village because of the toilet... didn't fit in the moment.

I thought the scene of Maryam's escape and eventual return to captivity was done really well.. the camera work on the chair lift sequence was good... but again, the color tomes made it look archaic, and not rustic, as I would think it was intended to be.

Like most movies from the sub-continent, this movie had an intermission, and I walked out to buy my popcorn and discuss my disappointment with what I had thought would be a good film. I discussed that the film needn't have been technically brilliant as long as it was tightly scripted. Let's face it, it will be a while before Lollywood reaches the technical levels of Bollywood, let alone Hollywood.

Most films go downhill in the second half, because the director realizes he doesn't know how to finish it. This one, thankfully, did not.

The second half is power-packed with action, plenty of emotions, lots of events, great music, a great courtroom scene and a great finale. Naseer Ud Din Shah, in a brief appearance, played a character that turned the whole story around. So it can be safely said that even though his role was short, it was of major importance.. and what a performance in that short time. I remember the audience applauding during his courtroom sequence at some of the dialogs.

I think Shaan and the guy who played his brother gave good performances also. Shaan, especially, was brilliant and played the character with ease.. really got under the skin of "Mansoor". The ending, a mixture of sadness and contentment, was fair and all in all, left you with a satisfied feeling.

I would recommend it to anyone who wants to know about the strife of the common Pakistani in this world today, and to those who want to educate themselves a little bit on Islam and what it preaches and permits. Don't walk in expecting to be bowled over by top-class film-making, and you might end up enjoying it.

Quite controversial and not so great

[mahme004 · 5/10 · 9 September 2007]

I am sorry to dissappoint anyone with this review but trust me the plot does have many weaknesses. Most people are supporting it because they adore the message being delivered therefore they are finding stuff useful which is generally being presented with preset bias. It is quite unique to see how the location changes from a war to suddenly back home to domestic issues. It certainly paints an already oppressed religious sector of Pakistan in much darker shade and to counter that USA has been painted in an equally darker tone. I hope people do realize that what is being shown can result in serious kind of lawsuits. The ending also seems quite inconclusive. The movie could have given some form of attachment to it characters but they seem to change their ideologies in brink of a second. It seems like in terms of providing a progressive opinion the religion is being fine tuned to keep up with changing times. It might be a great movie compared to other Lollywood or Bollywood flicks but it is nothing like author's earlier works in the "Sunhery din" or "Alpha Bravo charlie" . He does have a very admirable soft spot for armed forces of Pakistan but in many ways it tends to give him a very unpleasant bias. I will definitely recommend this movie but please do not try to form opinions about extremely religious people in Pakistan nor the US justice Department system, both of which are being misrepresented. I can assure anyone that ISPR and Geo must have contributed generously for this movie because their opinions are resonating quite loudly in many scenes. I will also make a prediction that president "Busharaf" will bestow the Pride of Pakistan award to this movie. It however does have an awesome soundtrack. The acting has also been pretty good. People who have been to Pakistani court or experienced an arrest in USA will find both depictions quite fabricated. I am really not familiar with FATA so I am really not sure whether to call it accurate or simply propaganda to support the present series of events in the area. Please also understand that military just does not fly people on its helicopters. I will again like to re-enforce that please watch the movie for its entertainment value and do not consider all the happenings very accurate.

Shoaib Mansoor gets it right in his cinema debut!

[The_Cool_Critic · 10/10 · 27 August 2007]

First things first -- and there are a lot of firsts in this movie. As half the world knows by now, this is Shoaib Mansoor's first cinematic venture. Most of the cast, including all the lead actors except Shaan, also make there silver-screen debut with this film. The film is also the first truly honest issue-based film from Pakistan, and now, is also one of the highest grossing ones in Pakistan. Whether it breaks the record of Syed Noor's earlier Punjabi ventures is what only time will tell.

I will not go about describing the story line in detail as you can check that in all the other reviews. However, in a nutshell, its about two musician brothers who go off on a different tangent through the course of their lives, one joining an extremist movement and the other pursuing college education in the States. Shaan and Fawad Khan, of course, enact the characters of the two brothers. Iman Ali plays the British cousin forced into a marriage she doesn't want.

The best thing about the film is its seamless flow and the REALLY natural settings and dialogues. The upper middle class setting of the brothers' household is something that a lot of Pakistanis would be able to relate to. I definitely could, and the film also correctly portrays the moderate leanings of the majority of the population in that country. The film shifts continuously between US, Lahore and the rather backward areas in Afghanistan, and the individual vignettes are so engrossing that you don't want them to end, and are left with a little disappointment as the film shifts to a different setting. Technically, the film is nothing short of a quantum leap for Pakistani cinema, the cinematography by Ali Mohammed, Neil Lisk and Ken Seng blending flawlessly with each other. However, Austin Sayre is the weak link in the film and one doesn't except her to be a Hollywood superstar anytime soon.

Overall, this is a seriously good film. You may have a different perspective, but do give it a watch.

A feeling resonationg through the sub continent!!!!

[devashish_p · 10/10 · 3 December 2007]

What i find truly amazing is that almost all those who have commented on this movie are either Pakistanis or Muslims or both!!!Now this should not be the case. Iam an Indian and i feel that this movie for the first time brings a glimpse to the culture and way of life across the border and dare i say that the similarities are striking!!! Again the events that happened to mansoor or sarmat could easily have happened to anyone and such cases have been heard of in India. This is what gives the movie a unique identity and makes it the voice of the sub continent.

Also the duologue's by naseerudin shah provide a rare glimpse in the true meaning of Islam, a voice that has been lost in all the noise made by the fundamentalist in the recent times. The acting throughout the movie is splendid and the music is fantastic and add to it bits and pieces of humor and this makes the movie a great experience.

Finally the message in the movie"I still love America in-spite of these few bad men and similarly i hope you will not hate all Muslims just because some have hurt your country" stands out and deserves a hearty applause.

Kuda Ke Liye Delivers and More

[nabusman · 10/10 · 28 November 2007]

This is the first Pakistani film I've seen, and I have to say I'm impressed. The camera work, the acting, the settings, everything is quite stupendous. Of course, what sets this movie apart is the topic that the story deals with. For most Americans this will be a glimpse from the other angle, I know it was for me. As the world gets smaller it is important to see the situation from all angles.

The story in a nutshell, centers around two musicians who are brothers. They both take diverse paths paths in life, with one joining a music school in Chicago and the other coming under the influence of an extremist mullah. Also, in the fray is the brothers' cousin who is forced into a marriage that she doesn't want.

You may find that this movies really opens your eyes, you can't afford to miss it.

good movie,worth watching ..daring one for a change

[rdeeb · 8/10 · 13 December 2007]

I'm not going to say much for now even though i have much comments about this film after i watched it 3 days ago.

all i will say you must watch it your self,whether you will agree with whats in it or not,this movie it tore heart apart, but i prefer to postpone all for now i want to say about this movie -for now- my critical point of view is not imp now what i want to say for now is,guys this movie has already won an award in my country in Egypt we have the international Cairo film festival and by the way this film festival is recognized abroad within the 12 approved international film festival it has won the 2nd award. that adds one more reason why you should watch it.

A powerful script backed up by some solid performances albeit the direction was felt a bit lacking at times.

[usaf-shariq · 8/10 · 21 July 2007]

A powerful script has been an enigma to Pakistani cinema for more than two decades now. Once this industry was ruled on the basis of powerful writing but this art was long forgotten until now. Shoaib Mansoor has worked really hard on the script, though there were a couple of loose ends to the script but the captivating second half keeps you at bay from anything lacking. Shoaib Mansoor; the director, has worked with quite a few D.O.Ps for this film and it clearly shows as the continuity is broken several times but all this can be ignored, thanks to some brilliant acting by Shaan and Naseerudin Shah. Fawad and Iman has done a commendable job given that it was their first film. There were some technical glitches as well but again nothing unforgivable. The film carries a very important message about not to stereotype things and also confronts the world to the fact that Islam is not about fanaticism. A religion cannot teach terrorism and Islam is no different it only teaches you love peace and submission. Islam means submission and how can submission be violent. The film confronts many ironies about the religion and is very well scripted. A definite watch for everyone, be it Muslim, Muslim Lover or hater!

Amazing movie

[farhan-sq · 10/10 · 25 August 2007]

Finally a Pakistani movie that is full of solid substance and great message. This is definitely first Pakistani movie to have it all, great story line, great performances from almost all of the cast specially Iman Ali and Shan, great direction. Overall an amazing movie that is a must watch.

This movie touches the controversial topics of religious extremism, lack of literacy in tribal areas, post 9/11 issues that were faced by innocent people in United States. Shoaib Mansoor supremely balanced and fused all the topics together to bring this master piece.

This movie should be nominated in Oscars for Best Foreign Language Film of the Year.

Good, but could have been better

[sheikh_hasan · 6/10 · 5 September 2007]

Quite relevant to our current predicament, but the story should have depicted more than just the extreme ends of the Pakistani society spectrum. I was expecting more from the likes of Shoaib Mansoor, but considering the usual crap that rolls out of Lollywood it's a fairly good watch and might actually be the start of the revolution in Pakistani cinema that some are excited about. The sound track is excellent and fits well with the screenplay. Acting wise, Iman Ali and Rasheed Naz are impressive. The editing however is poor and the almost 2.5 hours can be felt. The ending is abrupt and a bit of a disappointment, but the movie still warrants a watch if just to gain insight into the tensions within our very complex society and it's conflict within and with the west.

Great Movie

[sairasridha · 10/10 · 27 November 2007]

This movie was a well written movie. Iman Ali's performance was very convincing. The movie shows exactly what is wrong in Pakistan. Her part in the movie pertains to many, many people. Now a lot of those people are struggling with their own kids. I was so happy she stayed in Pakistan and decided to help the situation by educating women. So many of us run away from the problem and pretend like it doesn't exist. About the whole Shaan issue. It's also sad but true. The whole event was a tragedy. It was extremely bad for the people who were killed in the event, but the Muslims and Sikhs were victimized by everyone. The media could not even differentiate between a Sikh and Muslim. Then the reality of the part about the taweez and how we all know how to read Arabic but don't know the meaning How do you explain that to people who were not born into our culture??? It's so frustrating but very real. Hopefully we will get to see some more great movies from this director.

LOVED THE MOVIE!!!

View of an Indian

[anshul2001anshul · 6/10 · 3 November 2007]

Good movie. I happened to find this movie on our college intra net and the person who was sharing the movie was an exchange student from Pakistan to India. Revelation for me :

1. Pakistanis call fundamentalists "fundoo" in a derisive tone. By seeing bearded Pakistani cricket team after long been seeing Imran khan as symbol of Pakistan cricket I used to think that Pakistanis actually appreciate this over religiousness but not now. I think they are rather afraid. 2. It was interesting to contrast outlook of women in Afghan village who never ventured out to outlook of the father living in england. 3. I think actual problem is people like the father of girl who are most hypocrite and harm the moderates as well as bring bad name to religious people. Extremists ca Be fought if there are no hypocrite people like the bride's father in movie. 4. Another surprise was ending.I thought heroine will go back to his cousin in line with subcontinent tradition but opening of school was great.

Only sore point I found was an effort to be political correct in script. It appeared as if extremism was being justified by torture of suspected people by American police which I think are two separate issues and deserve to be dealt so. I don't understand why can't we call a spade a spade and more importantly eve n if we assume American policy as cause for extremism in Muslim societies ( which is not true) one fails to understand how can this kind of response be justified?

In fact I found performance of USA going brother quite overbearing and his style too patronizing specially end sequence.

but music wise movie was goo but hey could have explored cinematographic potential of NWFP more.

well it did make sense initially but later.. all BULLSHIT

[salman-surti · 1/10 · 24 July 2008]

while i was watching this movie, in the start sequences i never realized that the movie was going to lead up to such an insensible and false stuff. cant believe it, Muslim's themselves r creating fun about them, and also delivering a false message about Islam.

i am not here for any arguments and neither do i give a damn about whatever people r gonna comment on my opinion but i would just like to make one thing very clear to other and non- Muslims that, in no way does Islam permits a Muslim girl to get married outside her religion. thought it differs for men (as they are allowed to marry Christians and Jews). their r many genuine hadith's on this issue and specially the one which Mr. Naseeruddin Shah presented in the movie (regarding Muslim girl marrying outside her religion) didn't make sense at all on this matter as it did only clear out that a girl should be asked and her permission should be seeked before deciding her marriage. and yeah, as about the music issue in which he said that music is allowed because "Daud, Alaihis salaam"(David) was gifted with a beautiful and sweetest voice by Allah and when he sang all the birds and mountain started to praise the Almighty along with him. well i agree with him, but the point here is that "David" was gifted with a sweet voice, not MUSIC! of course Islam doesn't prohibit singing for men, like nasheed etc. but the thing Islam prohibits is Music.

as i also did say earlier that i am not here to rate this movie on a commercial basis, but the message what this movie was trying to pass was intolerable . though up to a certain limit i also do agree what was shown in the first half regarding the hypocrite mullah's and tableeghi's but this doesn't prove that the opposite of this is right!

anyhow, i hope people don't take my opinion in any wrong way instead of thinking over it and preventing themselves in falling into evil.

and just for a matter of point, i don't think that Mr. Naseeruddin Shah deserves any religious appreciation or does he suits to talk on any thing related to Islam or specially marriage, as he himself has a non-Muslim(Hindu) wife, which is prohibited according to Islamic Shariah.

Awesome Just Awesome!

[mizrans · 10/10 · 4 September 2007]

Just phenomenal... I cant wait it to come out in the theaters here in Chicago.... I do want to spend money on this movie.... SHOMAN is awesome. I cannot believe that this is a Pakistani movie. Sound tracks are very lively. one song does sound like vital sign (sabhi muhhabat karney waley) great camera work. just some minor details that could've added more to it would be background music and the environmental noises, such as birds chirping, people walking. Some scenes and a bit of a storyline was repetition from some other movies or generally old topics But OMG over all 10 outta 10 movie and a great effort. Love you Shoaib Mansoor for this great effort. Please start a school for people to learn your style and hopefully we'll get out 'Alpha Bravo Charlie' back in TV as well. thanks