Tag: cinema

  • ‘I rejected Bollywood offers, including ones from Raj Kapoor’: Sajid Hasan

    ‘I rejected Bollywood offers, including ones from Raj Kapoor’: Sajid Hasan

    Actor Sajid Hasan, well-known for his candid opinions and versatile roles since his PTV days, recently revealed in an interview with VOA Urdu that he had been receiving Bollywood offers for quite some time.

    “I was offered films by Raj Kapoor himself when I first started my career in dramas through Hasina Moin’s plays. But I turned them down, as I didn’t feel comfortable with the romantic genre. I was clear about my choices and didn’t want to compromise on the kind of work I wanted to do. Those films weren’t for me, and I’m glad I stood by my conviction.”

    Sajid Hasan has worked in drams and films appearing in popular dramas like ‘Dhuwan’ and ‘Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Benishan’, and in films such as ‘Bol’ and ‘Actor in Law’.

  • Director Azfar Jafri’s hilarious mimicry of Usman, Sanam steals the show

    Director Azfar Jafri’s hilarious mimicry of Usman, Sanam steals the show

     Actors Sanam Saeed and Usman Mukhtar’s recent interview on Hum News with director Azfar Jafri had everyone laughing.
    Director of ‘Umro Ayyar’ Azfar Jafri is an excellent mimic, and he had incredible impressions of Sanam and Usman. He described Usman’s on-set attitude and how he used to talk about the situation.

    Furthermore, he imitated Sanam Saeed and remarked how serious Sanam is when working on a set.
    Azfar Jafri mimicked Sanam Saeed’s straight-forward style, saying, “she says what needs to be said without caring how blunt it looks.” He also made Sanam’s perfect impression and even sounded like her.

  • Six exciting films to hit cinemas this Eid ul Azha!

    Six exciting films to hit cinemas this Eid ul Azha!

    This Eid ul Azha exciting Lollywood and Hollywoood films are set to hit cinemas.

    Many people eagerly wait for Eid to enjoy a day out with family and friends at the movies. There are four Lollywood and two Hollywood coming this Eid Ul Azha.

    UmroAyyar – A New Beginning

    This upcoming Pakistani fantasy film is about Umro, a character from the classic fantasy Urdu novel.

    Cast: Ali Kazmi, Farhan Tahir, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Manzar Sehbai, Sana Fakhar, Sanam Saeed, Simi Raheal, Usman Mukhtar.

    The sci-fi movie is directed by Azfar Jafri and produced by VR Chili Production.

    Abhi

    Humza, a young Kashmiri boy, flees to AJK with his brother after their father’s death and pursues his passion for music in Muzaffarabad, but struggles with haunting childhood memories.

    A chance encounter with a Lahori tourist, Zara, encourages him to move to Lahore to chase his dreams and overcome his past.

    The film is directed by Asad Mumtaz and produced by Ali Chaudhry, Gohar Mumtaz, and Muhammad Waleed Abbas. The screenplay is written by Shoiab Rabbani.

    Cast:

    Gohar Mumtaz, Hareem Farooq, Hina Bayat, Kubra Khan, Mahmood Aslam, Shahzad Nawaz, Usman Peerzada

    Na Baligh Afraad

    Nabeel Qureshi is back with ‘Na Baligh Afraad’, a comedy set in the 90s. The trailer shows a VCR playing a key role. With lots of laughs, get ready for a fun time at the movies. The film is directed by Nabeel Qureshi and produced by Fizza Ali.Meera ,Nabeel Qureshi.

    Cast: Samar Jafri, Aashir Wajahat, Adi Adeel Amjad, Salim Miraaj, Ehteshamuddin

    Bhediya: A scientist’s theory

    The film suggests that humans evolved from animals, but today’s humans quickly revert to animalistic behavior, forgetting their values. ‘Bhediya’ tells the story of one such person who seeks revenge, blurring the lines between humans and animals.

    This individual’s quest for inner satisfaction transforms them into a ‘Bhediya’, losing their human identity.

    It is directed by Shahzad Billa and the screenplay is written by Tofiqe Shah, produced by Mukhtar Ahmad Khawaja. The gernre of the film is action and adventure.

    Cast: Ali Khan, Baba Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Shafqat Cheema, Shahzad Billa, Sidra Noor, Sumaira Saghir, Syed Ama

    Inside Out 2

    The film Inside Out 2 is about Riley navigating her teenage years, experiencing new emotions and adventures. The film is directed by Kelsey Mann and written by Dave Holstein, Meg LeFavue.

    Cast: Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Kensington Tallman, Tony Hale

    Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die

    The dynamic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence returns as Miami’s finest, but this time they’re on the wrong side of the law. Expect high-octane action, laugh-out-loud comedy, and a thrilling twist as they go from being the hunters to the hunted.

    It is directed by Adil El Arabi, Bilall Fallah and written by Chris Bremer, Will Beall and George Gallo.

    Cast: Will smith, Martin Lawrence, Vanessa Hudgens

  • Babra Sharif breaks silence after decades, talks to media for first time in years

    Babra Sharif breaks silence after decades, talks to media for first time in years

    Veteran actress Babra Sharif recently attended the launch event of filmmaker Altaf Hussain’s film ‘Tere Pyar Nu Salaam.’ The reclusive yesteryears superstar discussed the revival of cinema in the Pakistan film industry.

    “We have never focused on dividing Karachi, Peshawar, and Lahore. Our work is for the entire film industry. This divide shouldn’t be a topic of discussion. We owe a lot to Altaf Hussain. He has always promoted films with social messages, never violent ones. He taught me rhythm and dance and is still working hard for the industry’s revival. Revival isn’t a single event; it’s our collective effort and small steps. Let’s not divide the industry. Keep making films, and I hope Altaf Hussain creates another great movie like before.”

    Babra Shairf hasn’t worked for many years, but ,she ruled the silver screen in 1980,s with her captivating performances, stunning looks, and charming on-screen presence. Babra Sharif has given us some of the most iconic films in Pakistani cinema including Mere Apne (1981), Kabhi Kabhi (1983)

  • Sanam Saeed reveals warrior look for ‘Umro Ayyar’

    Sanam Saeed reveals warrior look for ‘Umro Ayyar’

    Actress and model Sanam Saeed has given fans a thrilling glimpse into her upcoming film ‘Umro Ayyar’
    She posted few picture on Instagram of her character ‘Meenu’ dressed in warrior attire, looking fierce and determined.

    The picture also include a selfie with co-star Usman Mukhtar and a behind-the-scenes photo of the cast. Saeed’s caption on her Instagram, “Ayyaron tayyar ho!? Some bts shots of the Ayyars and myself as Meena! Coming to a cinema near you this Eid Al Azha 2024!”

    Sanam Saeed is also set to appear in the Indian web series ‘Shandur’ alongside Fawad Khan, as well as in ‘Barzakh’ and the Netflix film ‘Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo.’

  • Pakistan’s ‘Nayab’ wins at festival in Cannes

    Pakistan’s ‘Nayab’ wins at festival in Cannes

    Pakistani film ‘Nayab’ has won the ‘Best Foreign Film’ award at World Film Festival in Cannes. The film, directed by Umair Nasir Ali, also won the Best First Time Film Maker award in the feature film category. The film is written by Basit Naqvi, Ali Abbas Naqvi

    The story of the film is centered around a young woman determined to break stereotypes by playing cricket for Pakistan’s national team. Her brother, who was once a rising star himself, struggles with his past.

    The director posted a picture on Instagram with the caption, “Happy to share our film “Nayab” won Best Foreign Film and Best First Time Filmmaker (Feature) at the World Film Festival in Cannes – Remember the Future! April 2024 -Despite limited festival opportunities after commercial theatrical release locally and globally, these awards bring us great joy. Thanks to the entire Nayab Team for making “Nayab” possible! Specially @rumina_umair @aliabbasnaqvi88 & @m.basit.naqvi for being there since the inception of the idea which we started in 2019.”

    Yumna Zaidi who played the character of Nayab also posted a picture on her Instagram with the caption, “Nayab” my real star ”

    Note: The prestigious Cannes Film Festival ended on May 25. Don’t confuse it with the World Film Festival in Cannes, a separate monthly competition held in the same city.

  • A fresh take on arranged marriage; ‘Poppay Ki Wedding’ delivers humor with heart

    A fresh take on arranged marriage; ‘Poppay Ki Wedding’ delivers humor with heart

    I recently watched ‘Poppay Ki Wedding’ and thoroughly enjoyed it. The movie tells the story of a modern man who returns to his hometown for his sister’s wedding, only to find out that his family has arranged his marriage to a stranger. Determined to challenge traditional customs, he sets out to catch a glimpse of his future wife’s face before the wedding day.

     

    The cast, including Khushhal Khan, Nazish Jahangir, Rehan Sheikh, Shamyale Nasir, Sara Aijaz Khan, and Aleezay Rasul, deliver impressive performances in this romantic comedy. The film’s writers and directors, Kanza Zia and Ammar Lasani, deserve credit for giving new faces a chance to shine in roles that fit their characters perfectly. The film introduces new faces that fit their roles perfectly.

     

    The story is engaging, with Poppay navigating his conflicting desires and family pressures, all while maintaining a light-hearted, comedic tone.Chu Chu, Poppay’s friend, and Mooda, who is Poppay’s uncle, are standout characters who add a lot of humor to the story. The music in the film is exciting and enhances the film’s lively atmosphere.

     

    The film features four songs: ‘Poppay di Shaan’ (the theme of the film), ‘Pardesi Larka’ ‘Aisa Ishq,’ and ‘O Khuda.’ Each song adds to the vibrant, festive feel of the movie.The film’s message about respecting our parents’ choices and decisions is a valuable one.

     

     While Poppay’s journey from resisting arranged marriage to embracing it is entertaining, it also highlights the importance of family and tradition.This could be on time watch film recommend ‘Poppay Ki Wedding.’ It’s a fun, colorful, and heartwarming film that you can enjoy with family and friends. You won’t regret buying tickets for this entertaining movie.

     

    One drawback of the film, in my opinion, is that Poppay’s cousin’s acting, while showing promise with her expressions, fell short in terms of her dialogue delivery. Her lines often felt forced or unnatural, which detracted from the overall impact of her performance.

  • Director of ‘Gunjal’ wins debut award at India’s Dada Saheb Phalke film festival

    Director of ‘Gunjal’ wins debut award at India’s Dada Saheb Phalke film festival

    Pakistani director Shoaib Sultan has won the debut director award for his film ‘Gunjal’ at the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival in New Delhi, India. The achievement is a big milestone for both Sultan and Pakistani cinema.

    The festival, which celebrates great filmmaking, featured films from around the world, and Sultan’s work shone brightly among them. Sultan thanked the organizers, saying the award is a big step forward for Pakistani cinema.

    ‘Gunjal’, a Pakistani movie released on December 15, 2023, has gotten a lot of attention for its talented cast, including Ahmed Ali Akbar, Resham, and Amna Ilyas.

    Speaking from Saudi Arabia, where he currently resides, Sultan expressed his gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him.

    He said, “The award has encouraged everyone in the Pakistani film and cinema industry.’ He added that support from the current government and the announced funding for the Pakistani film industry will lead to the production of better films and provide people with better opportunities to watch movies.

  • Cross-Border Love: ‘Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’ takes viewers on emotional journey

    Cross-Border Love: ‘Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’ takes viewers on emotional journey

    ‘Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’ is a heartwarming family movie that tells the enchanting love story of Simi Chahal as Meher and Imran Abbas as Ali. Their on-screen chemistry is delightful, drawing viewers into the world of Punjabi cinema. The film beautifully captures the essence of love, dreams, and heartbreak, taking audiences on an emotional journey.

     

    Director Thappar skillfully portrays the love story across borders, showcasing picturesque locations in England, Lehnda, and Charda Punjab. The cinematic experience is elevated by the stunning set designs and vivid location descriptions.

     

    The stellar performances of the cast add depth to the film. Simi Chahal’s bubbly nature and charming attire light up the screen, while Imran Abbas shines in his debut role, becoming the new heartthrob of Punjabi cinema. The supporting cast, including Mintu Kapa and Udaya Vakati, leave a lasting impression with their commendable performances.

     

    The film was released in Pakistan and worldwide on February 16, 2024. It falls under the romance and drama genres, with Punjabi as the primary language. The total budget of the film is five crore, and as of now, it has collected approximately 0.4 crores Indian rupees at the box office, which converts to approximately 95.92 lakh Pakistani rupees. The film holds an IMDb rating of 6.3/10, indicating an average review about the movie.

     

    In my opinion, the producers should consider changing the climax to a happier one. This would elevate the movie’s appeal, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings. The film’s cross-border casting and engaging storyline make it a must-watch.

     

    The film’s engaging storyline, filled with clever one-liners and glimpses into the characters’ personalities, keeps viewers entertained throughout. The well-timed songs, especially the title track ‘Jee Ve Sohneya’ sung by Atif Aslam, enhance the emotional impact of the scenes.

     

    Overall, ‘Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’ offers a complete entertainment package with its compelling story, stellar performances, and soulful music, making it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

    Here are a few audience reviews buzzing on social media about the latest film ‘Jee Vee Sohneya Jee,’ capturing diverse opinions and insights into the viewer’s experience with the movie.

     

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by Imran Abbas (@imranabbas.official)

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by Imran Abbas (@imranabbas.official)

     

     

     

     

  • Celebrities donate to cinema for Gaza auction

    Celebrities donate to cinema for Gaza auction

    Louis Theroux, Aimee Lou Wood, Nicola Coughlan, Peter Capaldi, and Jenna Coleman are among the many celebrities who have donated items to help Cinema for Gaza.

    Famous musicians, filmmakers, actors, and photographers like Annie Lennox, Jonathan Glazer, Brian Cox, Tilda Swinton, Misan Harriman, Gurinder Chadha, Juliette Larthe, and Naqqash Khalid have also donated to a Cinema for Gaza Auction.

    Film journalists and filmmakers Hanna Flint, Julia Jackman, Leila Latif, Sophie Monks Kaufman, and Helen Simmons have started Cinema For Gaza with a planned auction to help Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).

    Many talented filmmakers from the UK and beyond have donated too. A-listers like Tilda Swinton, Jonathan Glazer, Ramy Youssef, Juliette Larthe, Peter Capaldi, Imelda Staunton, Brian Cox, Joseph Quinn, Mike Leigh, Misan Harriman, Joanna Hogg, Aimee Lou Wood, and Josh O’Connor.

    Juliette Larthe, who helped start PRETTYBIRD UK and made the award-winning movie IN CAMERA, is giving a mentoring session over Zoom. And the director of IN CAMERA, Naqqash Khalid, is giving a mentoring session and two tickets to see his movie.

    Some cool things in the auction are Tilda Swinton reading a bedtime story, special seats for the play Long Day’s Journey into Night with a chance to meet Brian Cox, signed movie posters from Jonathan Glazer, a photo taken by Misan Harriman, a small part in Gurinder Chadha’s next movie, handwritten lyrics to Annie Lennox’s song ‘Sweet Dreams’, and a Zoom serenade from Olly Alexander.

    Louis Theroux, Aimee Lou Wood from Sex Education, Nicola Coughlan from Bridgerton, and Peter Capaldi and Jenna Coleman from Doctor Who have also given things to Cinema for Gaza.

    MAP helps Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees by giving them medical aid and working on building up local healthcare. Right now, they’re helping with the emergency in Gaza.

    The auction is online until Friday, April 12th, at midnight BST. You can bid on the lots here.