Even though Pakistani films have been relatively sparse in the past, towards the latter year, the film industry has been picking up momentum and has produced a number of impressive additions to its cinemas, even making marks in international theaters. A mix of cultural expression and contemporary comedies, here is a list of 10 intriguing Pakistani films to explore:
- Bol (2011)
Having earned significant recognition for the impact caused by its narrative, Bol focuses on addressing key social problems prevalent in the country. The film follows the story of a financially struggling household led by a father who has several daughters and desires a son, focusing on daring and controversial themes such as patriarchy, gender, and religious extremism.
- Laal Kabootar (2019)
Set during the darker times of Karachi, the film is classified as a thriller and follows the murder of a journalist in broad daylight. Starring an Uber driver and a newly widowed woman seeking revenge, this film is a gritty portrayal of the chaos of the streets and a raw expression of loss, anger, dreams, and responsibilities.
- Cake (2018)
Cake is a significant part of Pakistan’s contemporary cinema, which, in its basic form, represents the importance of family. Following the story of an estranged family who is reunited due to their father’s illness, this Pakistani Urdu film is set in the countryside and is filled with beautiful performances that portray secrets, broken promises, dark pasts, and redemption.
- Moor (2015)
Partially filmed in haunting yet beautiful landscapes in Baluchistan, this movie is a tribute to laborers who remain rooted in honesty. The film follows the story of an excellently portrayed railway stationmaster who tries to cope with loss and estrangement. The story also confronts social corruption and the mafia to a certain extent, presenting a grounded yet emotionally engaging film.
- Zaraab (2018)
Considered one of the biggest successes of the Balochi film industry, Zaraab confronted the harsh reality of the failure of major developmental projects that sought to improve the conditions of Balochistan. Addressing pressing issues, specifically unemployment, poverty, and the overall poor conditions of the locals, the movie received worldwide acclaim, including an award in the International Exposure competition held in the United Arab Emirates.
- Pinky Memsaab (2018)
The film portrays the story of a young Punjabi woman, Pinky, who is taken to work as a maid for a socialite and aspiring writer in an upper-class household in Dubai. Witty and emotional, with comedic moments sprinkled into the plotline, Pinky Memsaab discusses the gap between upper-class and lower-working-class individuals and the complex reality of navigating relationships.
- Manto (2015)
Manto is a Pakistani biographical drama film that captures the latter years of a short story writer’s life, during which he composed some of the greatest and most controversial works of Urdu literature. The film is an artistic expression that captures the journey of Manto through the prevalent socio-political conditions at the time and an exploration of his craft.
- Teefa in Trouble (2018)
Putting aside the heavy themes for a moment, Teefa in Trouble is an enjoyable film with lighthearted content that you could watch with your friends or family. A typical romantic action comedy, this film is known to be one of the highest-grossing, big-budget films and is seen to nail the delivery of dialogue and originality of its comedy while preserving the quality of the storyline. The movie, portraying the cliché yet beloved trope of a local gangster falling in love with a girl he needs to abduct, features some of the best action sequences in Pakistani cinema.
- Jawani Phir Nahi Ani (2015)
If you’re looking for a movie to watch with friends, Jawani Phir Nahi Ani (2015) is a great choice. Jawani Phir Nahi Ani follows a divorce lawyer and his group of friends as they embark on an adventurous holiday to escape the monotony of their lives, turning comedy into a successful film that audiences around the world enjoy. Released in 2015, the film made a mark as the highest-grossing Pakistani film at the time.
- Mah e Mir (2016)
Mah e Mir, yet another biographical drama film, presents a romantic narrative that follows a modern-day poet and newspaper columnist. Drawing parallels to an Urdu poet of the 19th century, the film is a beautiful, albeit complex, presentation of literary concepts.
