Gunjal

Starring: Resham, Ahmad Ali Butt, Ahmed Ali Akber, Amna Ilyas

Directed by: Shoaib Sultan

Inspired by the story of child activist Iqbal Masih, who was an underage laborer in Pakistan, Gunjal follows a journalist’s investigation into the former’s murder in 1995. As harrowing as the story itself is, the film is a must-watch as fictional exploration of a historical case.

Kukri

Starring: Yasir Hussain, Ayesha Omar, Paras Masroor, Rabya Kulsoom

Directed by: Abu Aleeha

Pakistan heard of a local serial killer most prolifically in 1999, when Punjab native Javed Iqbal confessed to assaulting and murdering a hundred children. Kukri follows the case from when Iqbal turns himself in, to the ensuing investigation. As upsetting as the subject matter is, the film deserves a watch for Yasir Hussain’s performance.

Chikkar

Starring: Usman Mukhtar, Ushna Shah, Nausheen Shah, Faryal Mehmood,
Adnan Shah Tipu

Directed by: Zaheer Uddin

A dancer is honor-killed in Diyalpur, and as the lead investigative officer dives into the case, he unveils systemic injustices and how every dot connects to build a messed up picture.

Babylicious

Starring: Sharoz Sabzwari, Syra Yousuf, Ankur Rathee

In a mass of grave storylines, Babylicious was the pop of color we all needed. A long-delayed production, the film follows a heartbroken young man post breakup, and as he tries to win the love of his life back. Described as the perfect date night movie, Babylicious should be on your list of local movies to watch.