m-82962 Reviews

Parey Hut Love (2019)

Beautiful sets and A Stellar cast cannot make up for a half baked screenplay.

[5/10 · 1 September 2020]

Parey Hut Love was touted as one of the biggest films of the year thanks to Asim Raza's reputation as a director. His debut film Ho Mann Jahaan featuring probably one the biggest names in the industry was a good flick despite its flaws. However as it is generally known, that the second film is the most important one and Asim unfortunately fails due to so many factors such as: a very similar story line, a mediocre screenplay and average direction. The film's story is simple. Boy meets girl, their infatuation for each other, complications, more complications, a third wheel and off to a happy ending. However side by side, the film though Pakistani tries to portray certain shades to its characters, as one of the main characters of the film has commitment phobia or some of the characters have a proper backstory . For a normally good film, these kinds of attentions to detail should be its strength but unfortunately Parey hut love could not deal with it and so did not rise above and came off as an average flick. Talking about the direction, Asim's work as a director was average. He simply does not get out of his majestic sets. His obsession for the sets is so evident that it unfortunately shows in the way he handle his characters and major scenes. Some scenes in the film are totally done to death. And of course the screenplay is to blame for that.. Parey Hut Love's screenplay doesn't give time to its characters to flesh out. It strictly establishes them and throws one plot twist after another, hence does not give its actors the margin to shine. Acting department was strictly okay..Shehreyar Munawar carries the film on his shoulders throughout. Despite having the margin to perform. Munawar never delivers beyond what is on paper. And in major scenes he overacts. However he puts a fairly watchable performance. Maya Ali on the other hand comes and goes out of the frame and is not there for the whole screen time. She also gives an okay performance but the script is to blame for that.. Despite not having any margin, she gives a nuanced performance. The rest of the cast acts in the background and hence are not brought to the focus. Due to their limited screentime, all the actors including Ahmed Ali Butt, Zara Noor Abbas and Hina Dilpazeer (who continuosly repeats herself), fail to shine. Even Mahira Khan who is the saving grace of the film and makes a breath taking entry with Moray Saiyaan (in a cameo) suffers from a confusing arc..

However the lavish sets, beautiful visuals. splendid choreography and brilliant cinematography are unlike anything seen in Pakistani cinema and the makers are to be appreciated for that. But these elements play a crucial but small role in making a good film.

Sadly, Parey Hut Love again is an example about how our very well actors are wasted in a mediocre screenplay over and over again.

Ehd-e-Wafa (2019– )

Enjoyable but lacks a proper storyline.

[7/10 · 28 May 2020]

Ehd-e-wafa is one of those serials whuch due to their high production quality take the audience by storm anf after it develops everyone's interest, it loses the point but as everyone watched it with great interest now it becomes infeasible to leave the series at that point.... so ratings stay afloat till the end. The series didn't start off with a bang rather it took its time to develop (more on that later) all the arcs and then went from strength to strength due to its entertainment values but then it starts limping because the story was not developed properly rather it seemed like they were developing the story with each episode.. The writing of the play is good enough just because the series is a relief from wacky and saas bahu plots the audience is used to seeing in the past few years. However it is the main aspect of the story which lacks complete development, i-e friendship. The series never explores the characters' friendship in depth rather it handles it on a superfacial manner and the conflict arrives too soon but you get past it since it is being asserted that their friendship was something next level but it wasn't, and the serial remains thoroughly entertaining. The second flaw was despite having a fine screenplay, it was the story which didn't know where it was headed.. However on the whole the screenplay was commendable not just because it was a relief but also it expands its hofizons past army and focuses into all the lives at the centre.. Had the story been treated with some attention to detail, it would have been the script of the year..

The direction was brilliant.. Saif e hassan is surely a brilliant director and created a name for himself after Sang e marmar, Sammi and now ehd e wafa.

The acting was spot on and Zara Noor Abbas as Raani stole the show despite her track contributing less than its screentime to the story... However Osman Khalid's portrayal leaves alot to be desired.. Rather than playing the character with nuance and insight, it came off as a caricature and extremely vile and black.. what should have been a grey character...

Watch it for the relief and some amazing performances and tight direction. Despite the flaws you will not regret.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

Something New Handled With Ease

[7/10 · 11 May 2020]

The curious case of benjamin button is totally a fresh concept with two powerhouses of talent leading the frame and subtle direction leading its to its glory.

Talking about screenplay, this must be said that while the story is groundbreaking, the screenplay although being great doesn't match its glory and loses it in the second half. This isn't to say that the writer just did an average job. In reality, the film's plot and detailed script comes as a relief. Probably one of the finest from the past year.

The film has been directed with enough brilliance and the way Fincher pulled off a very masterful film while keeping the atmosphere subtle is brilliant. Managing the film, the way it has been was tricky, and due to Fincher's amazing talent, the film does just that.

Talking about the performances Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett did an amazing job, however these are not the performances their careers will be remembered for.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a refreshing concept, acted and made in the equally refreshing manner, however the film runs for way too long....

Alif (2019–2020)

Class Apart

[10/10 · 26 March 2020]

Never in your life you would have seen such attention to detail in Pakistani Dramas. From cinematography, editing to wardrobe, everything is unlike Pakistani plays these days and it is made with a masterful vision of both the writer and the director. The story line and screenplay are beyond words. Don't know from where does Umera write such life changing stories. One thing special about Alif is that it is rich in writing in every other way. A kind of genre that still hasn't been explored. Every episode leaves you hooked. The way story unfolds and how the characters are linked to each other and to one single alphabet is beyond expressions. The characters are human in every way and it is easier for us to connect with them because they are all relatable. The writer should take a bow. The direction in brilliant and it is this unique style of Haseeb Hasaan that makes him stand tall and distinct among others. He did justice to every single word written by Umera. The actors are just another level. From Sajal to Ahsan Khan everyone is brilliant. A special mention goes to the remarkable portrayal of Husn-e-Jahaan by Kubra Khan. Surely an actor to look forward to. Alif is a master class in terms of Story telling and acting and the production value takes it a notch higher letting it shine brighter than any other serial. Watch it if you want a experience of a lifetime........

Shehr-e-Zaat (2012)

Directorial Brilliance

[10/10 · 26 March 2020]

There is a scene in the serial where everything falls into place for Falak; self realization and yes I am talking about the iconic mud scene in the serial and that is when you can tell that Sarmad Khoosat is undeniably talented. First he gave us Humsafar and now another iconic serial. He must take a bow. Shehr e zaat was another story of self realization and a quest to find spirituality but it was the depth in the screenplay which made it so soulful and brilliant. Everything character is something to learn from and there are very clear laid out messages in the end. Umera Ahmed is an intelligent writer and her recent plays are a testament of that but there are times when you just don't agree with her vision but in the end whatever she writes, she justifies it deliberately. Her dialogues and characterization is beautiful and she has given us one of the most iconic characters that are to stay forever. Should I mention how beautiful were Nani's and Falak's characters. While at some point you feel that the writer didn't do justice to some characters like Falak's mother but you let it pass because overall this was a beautiful piece. The actors did brilliant from Samina Peerzada to Nadia Afghan, everyone brought their A game. A special mention to Mahira Khan for effortlessly portraying the ever changing dynamics of Falak's characters and the way she insinuates into the character is beautiful. While through most of the serial she does good, in some scenes she is exceptionally brilliant. Shehr e zaat is a beautiful piece written by Umera Ahmed, gracefully resting on Mahira's shoulders through and through and it is the masterful direction which it to another level and leaves us in the list of iconic plays. Bravo.....

Verna (2017)

A Huge disappointment from a duo it was never expected but

[7/10 · 19 November 2019]

There is a scene in the film where Sara beats the hell out of Aami when he hits her and you begin to get excited but in the next scene there is utter confusion maybe because of choppy editing or a clear script and the film lets you down. The tragedy with Verna is that it is not able to sustain for long because in one scene it gets right at you but in the next it disappoints because there is nothing that goes in favour of the film Shoaib Mansoor has always been known for his strong direction that hits you right in the heart. He is one of the very few directors who know what to show and how to show it but in Verna he fails big time because he knows what to show but seems incapable in deciding how to show and in reality there is hardly any direction in the film and to be honest Mansoor's direction in the film is weak as it's hard to believe that he is the same who directed and wrote both Bol and Khuda Kay Liye. The fact I mention writing is because the script is mediocre riddled with a lot of loopholes .While Mansoor does make some points especially in the court scenes but he showed rape without sensitivity and it's hard to relate to Sara and here lies the main flaw of the film. The script didn't allow the audience to feel for the character because instead of coming off as headstrong Sara comes off as a stubborn whose decisions seem childish but here I would like Mansoor to take a bow for finally writing a character which is free from the clutches of stereotypes but lacks development and to make the matters worse the dialogues in the film are weak and this the major disappointment because Mansoor has always been known for his hard hitting dialogues. Even the dialogues which are strong go unnoticed because of the cast which barely knew how to act. The acting department of the film is weak. All the supporting cast except Zarrar Khan disappointed big time. However Mahira as always owns her own in the film. She is successful in portrayal of Sara but almost, not completely, because of the shoddy script which failed her big time because due to a weak script even a performer like Mahira couldn't give her 100 percent. And now I come to script's biggest weakness and that was its portrayal of Aami whose character was the poorest in the film Sighs. Haroon Shahid literally needs some acting classes because even his intense scenes left audience in giggles. Shoaib Mansoor has disappointed big time and all the failure of the film lays on his shoulders because every department in the film is weak whether it's direction, dialogues, screenplay, soundtrack or acting. Technicalities never mattered for Mansoor film and here they are also weak. Veran does have its moments and its a must watch because of the messages in the film but unfortunately there are more misses than hits

Superstar (I) (2019)

A Potential film and the "Curse Of 2nd half"

[6/10 · 14 August 2019]

Superstar has all the trappings of a good film. A potential storyline, a skillful director, A Superstar headlining the film and an amazing soundtrack.. However the film utilizes all of these elements in places and comes the 2nd half, the charm is lost to a rushed ending without much coherence.

Superstar could easily have been the film of the year. However it fails to rise above. The screenplay ruins a potential story in the 2nd half and character motivations are left unexplained. Little time is used on the development than a few unnecessary scenes.

The direction of the film is just adequate. Despite a few creative blocking choices by Ehteshammudin, the rest is handled with ignorance leaving one in doubt whether this was the same director who directed the masterpiece Sadqay Tumharay and the gritty Udaari.

The screenplay sets the story in quite majesty, however after a major plot twist, it never picks itself up. One of the major blunders done was the lack of scenes showing Noor's struggle and Sameer Khan's character which is left mostly in grey. After that a scene here and there, Mahira showing her acting chops, Bilal struggling to deliver, a death scene, An effortless and nostalgic Nadeem Baig and boom; an anticlimactic end, trying to make up for what cannot be redeemed.

However it is not easy to ignore the film's strengths. Thebiggest being Mahira Khan. Like the rest of her films post-Raees, Mahira too is the major draw and saving grace of the film. While given the margin to perform, in just a two minute scene, she leaves you in awe of how much versatile she is i-e the theater sequence. The rest is also handled in subtlety. Despite a few things not visually shown, Khan makes her character relatable and delivers an authentic and strong performance. However she still has to give a career best. Nadeem Baig definitely added grace to the film. The soundtrack was amazing and so was the background score, probably one of the bests from the recent Pakistani films.

Superstar has a well thought out story which the director failed to visually express in all its glory also due to a shoddy screenplay. Had the treatment been better, it would have been the film of the year

Ho Mann Jahaan (2015)

Refreshingly Beautiful.. Asim Raza; A Debutante Director Full Of Talent

[9/10 · 29 July 2019]

Ho Mann Jahaan is coming of age film which tackles youth problems; their emotions, their relationships and does it quite well... Starting from acting department everyone did great. The main cast stands out and everyone does exceptionally well. Sheryar Munawar becomes the star of the show and plays his character very well. Mahira Khan gives another beautiful performance and Adeel Hussain played this character extremely well . I was amazed to see Sonya Jehan play her character with certain kind of subtlety . Well I have already praised Asim but if have a problem with Asim its his writing which left alot of things a bit confused. One thing which film tackles is society's continuous reference of religion in pursuing certain professions like music in the film but if your religion does not stop you from pursuing certain professions then where the hell were references in the film so the makers could satisfy their audiences which was supposedly the main theme which this film tried to tackle and the film could have been a little shorter. This is a testament to the fact that our films lack smooth editing.. The music is like a breath of fresh air which makes the film's long runtime bearable and enjoyable for you.. For all its flaws, Ho Mann Jahaan feels like a film (finally) and I am very happy that Asim gave this beautiful film to the industry...

Bin Roye (2015)

Emotionally Beautiful..... Mahira Khan's Terrific performance makes it worth a watch

[8/10 · 29 July 2019]

Bin Roye struggles in the first few minutes till that bangle shuttering scene of Mahira's makes an appearance and oh boy oh boy!!!! It's Bin Roye for you.. Acting department does a good job with Mahira Khan being the finest. To all those critics out there constantly criticising her this one is a clap back.. Mahira Khan breaths life into different shades of Saba proving once again what a performer she is. Humayaun Saeed has little to explore just because of his character not etched out in much detail and Armeena getting the least screentime is just OK. While rest of the veterans hardly play any role.. Direction is another plus point and the songs are shot beautifully. Thanks to countless change in directors. Well if there is any problems with film its writing but not that much. One expected better from Farhat Ishtiaq. Did I mention the soundtrack which holds the film and keeps it afloat. All in all Bin Roye makes for a decent watch... Thanks to Mahira's electrifying performance and beautiful music

Aangan (2018– )

Could Have Been Another Feat For Pakistani Drama Makers But Lost Along The Way

[6/10 · 28 June 2019]

Aangan was the most hyped drama serial ever made in Pakistan. Everybody had huge expectations but the serial failed on so many levels. Like literally it was a copy paste of the original novel. Aangan was expected to be from Aaliya's perspective and Mawra Hocane was constantly saying it but it was a third dimensional. It could have been great even from third dimensional story but the makers miserably failed and only Chammi's character was the one which kept everyone going. First of all discussing about the screenplay and story this one was a big disappointment by Mustafa Afridi. One hoped that he could turn even a bad book into an amazing screenplay; thanks to Sang-e-Mar Mar but nope this one was a big disappointment. the writer ried to stay true to novel but in doing that h literally lost literary feminism on screen. And to say more characters appeared shallow and weak as if there was no substance to them like character of Aaliya which could be its Savior but the character looked so confused which in reality had its ambitions clear and Jameel's character was another problem, one could never tell what this character was really like; was it negative or positive (that might be okay to keep the character intriguing but till the end and after the end it should have been cleared). And not mention the supporting cast; it was all etched out very badly and Najma horribly. But one character which stays deep down is undoubtedly chammi. I would especially like to thank the writer for giving us an iconic character. The direction was weak and it does not seem clear the on whose shoulders one can put the blame. The writer's or the director's. A few scenes did actually stand out. But this one is just a disappointment by Ehteshamuddin. Finally acting department was the strongest. Mawra Hocane did a brilliant job and Ahad played Jameel's character effortlessly giving us another performance to drool over. A special mention also goes to Madiha Rizvi who did such a brilliant job regardless of having the worst character in the play. Hira, Ahsan, Mustafa Afridi and Zaib Rehman and all the other cast acted well... Lastly it is Sajal Aly's dynamic performance as Chammi which stands out. She effortlesstly translated Chammi's anger, innocence, her diverse changes in emotions once again proving what a powerhouse of talent Sajal is. Probably "The Best Actress" Pakistani Drama Industry has right now and I mean it...... Period. One just gets sad when realizes that how many hopes one had worth it but thanks to weak writing and direction and also did I mention that the sets didnot feel like 1940's

Punjab Nahi Jaungi (2017)

A Good One But Unrealistic and Overrated

[7/10 · 29 March 2019]

The scene after the comic "Help Me Durdana" where Mehwish Hayat with her dialogue delivery and top notch acting outshines everyone is the only scene which stands out for a film which everyone was bragging about but Punjab Nahi Jaungi comes with a somewhat already seen story but the same cannot be said for its dialogues where Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar once again redefines himself that he probably is one of the best drama writers but his craft is weak when it comes to unrealistic sequences and really illogical ending.

When it comes to acting you cannot decide who stands out in the film because each and every actor has given his/her full to their characters. Mehwish Hayat simply outhines but the star is Urwa...

Mother (2015)

Moor : Power To Pakistani Cinema

[10/10 · 5 January 2019]

The film opens with a really confused tone. You dont know what is happening or how the story is taking its shape . But when you come out of the cinema you come out enthralled. A true masterpiece you would have just seen. Starting with screen play the film has got a masterclass story with above average dialogues . A special mention to Jami whose direction is what gives the films its edge . The camera work, cinematography and picturization is just brilliant. The performances are good and Hameed Sheikh stands out playing a station master he delivers her dialogue and emotion to perfection just whoa : an award worthy performance. Shaz Khan also does a good job but he could have done better. Samiya Mumtaz as always does work with ease and her role is also a special component in the film . Not being there she is there and her character gives the story a push whenever it needs. The Music by strings also stands out A true masterpiece of Pakistani cinema.

Motorcycle Girl (2018)

A Film Redefining Our Cinema In A Brilliant Way

[10/10 · 5 January 2019]

This film is really piece of craft. While the storyline may seem scattered in the start but this technique is what gives the film its edge. One of the most progressive story lines to have come out of Pakistani cinema. The direction is on spot especially Adnan Sarwar's flashback trick really work out . The performances are brilliant especially by our Motorcycle girl. "Sohai Ali Abro" proves her worth with this role actually her first major role in a fiilm. Special mention to Ali Kazmi, Sarmad Khoosat and Shamim Hilaly. Urr Chalay by Ali Noor ia also a treat. Do Watch it.

Chalay Thay Sath (2017)

An Enthralling Film.. The best from 2017...

[10/10 · 16 November 2018]

Chalay Thay Saath is simple.. Simple enough that due to its simplicity, its charm traps you and doesn't leave you until the you leave the cinema with a smile on your face. The main strength of the film lies in its storyline which is by far one of the best love abd family story in a while.. As the rest of contemporary Pakistani films, the makers does not treat the story on a superfacial level, rather it is explored with enough depth and sensibility. Simply brilliant.

Casting is spot on.. All the actors making their debuts shine bright and the Canadian actor the brightest..

The director and the cinematographer both do a masterful job and leave you enthralled..

Watch the film for its simple amd Pakistani storyline, brilliant performances and Pakistani humour which actually makes you laugh.. The films finds it tone in simple scenarios and turns thems into larger than life experiences.. Oh did I mention the soundtrack is amazing too.. Watch it you won't regret...

Janaan (2016)

A pleasant film to watch

[7/10 · 13 November 2018]

Janaan is a good film with every element a good film needs but the only drawback to it was that it portrayed the "Pashtun Family" in an entirely glamourised and false way. The other thing which fall short was the music. Except the melodious Janaan title track and reidi gul no song is remarkable