Tag: shine

  • Sonya Hussyn and Sami Khan shine in ‘Aik Chubhan Si’

    Sonya Hussyn and Sami Khan shine in ‘Aik Chubhan Si’

    It’s too early to know where ‘Aik Chubhan Si’ will go, but with Sonya Hussyn and Sami Khan on screen, there’s more to the story than meets the eye. Here’s why we’re giving this one a go.

    The story is different from the usual stuff on screen. There’s no love story with our hero and heroine falling in love at first sight. This Pakistani drama is about post-marital (non-marital) bliss. Naila and Haroon are happily married, but we see a husband who’s not too happy to serve Naila’s family. However, the story’s subtle and relatable details keep us watching.

    Naila insists on looking after her uncle because he raised her. Haroon agrees, but reluctantly, with no toxicity (yet) in his attitude. There’s curiosity about Maheen, played by Hira Khan, as her character seems to have more to reveal, especially in the final scene of the first episode. Is there a hint of mystery, thrill, or something else in the drama? The first episode sets the stage and keeps us intrigued to learn more.

    As the drama unfolds quickly, we hope the story won’t fall into the trap of overly stretched plots and typical ‘other woman’ conspiracies.
    Sonya Hussyn and Sami Khan share great on-screen chemistry. If you’re a fan of this couple, then Aik Chubhan Si is a drama you should try. They appear comfortable on screen and make their characters believable and true to life. Their effortless interactions make the drama more enjoyable to watch.

    Fahad Sheikh plays Moiz, Hira’s cousin, and his performance here is a step up from his past roles. Whether it’s the direction or Fahad’s acting, his character evokes sympathy, even in the first episode. We’re looking forward to more from him. Hira Khan’s character seems a bit toxic, but we hope she will prove to be more complex and interesting.

    ‘Aik Chubhan Si’ is written by Rukhsana Nigar and directed by Mohsin Talat. The cast features Sonya Hussyn, Sami Khan, Asma Abbas, Hira Khan, Fahad Sheikh, and others.

  • Palestinian stories shine at Arab film festival in Berlin

    Palestinian stories shine at Arab film festival in Berlin

    The ALFILM festival in Berlin is standing strong in its promise to highlight Palestinian stories, even when faced with tough opposition. Despite the difficulties and tensions around discussing Palestine in Germany, the festival organizers are determined to give these important stories a platform.

    Pascale Fakhry, the director of ALFILM, knows it’s harder now, but she’s still committed to the festival’s mission. She says, “It feels like an impossible task right now. It doesn’t even feel like an act of courage. It feels like a suicide somehow, honestly.”

    But the festival keeps going, knowing how important it is as a big part of Arab culture in Germany. Fakhry says it’s crucial to keep talking and sharing stories, even when things seem tough.

    Even though there have been some tough moments, like questions from authorities about the festival’s venues, the organizers stay strong in their goal of creating a diverse and welcoming cultural space.

    In a time when antisemitism is growing and tensions are high, the festival is a symbol of strength and unity. Filmmakers from around the world are encouraged to speak out, even on sensitive topics.

    This year, the festival is focusing on Palestinian cinema with a special section called “Here is Elsewhere: Palestine in Arab Cinema and Beyond.” One documentary, ‘Bye Bye Tiberias’ by Lina Soualem, tells stories of Palestinian women and their strength through generations, showing how history still affects them today.

    Stories like Soualem’s are important because they challenge stereotypes and make sure Palestinian voices are heard. Even when it’s hard, the ALFILM festival keeps fighting to share these stories and promote understanding through art and cinema.