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Over the past decade, Pakistani cinema has left a lasting impression, capturing the attention of film enthusiasts. Fresh talent in both acting and directing has reignited interest in cinema, drawing audiences back to theaters. Several films have not only resonated with audiences, but also made significant strides at the box office. Let’s test your knowledge of Pakistani cinema and see how well you’re acquainted with the rebirth of cinema after ages of being dormant unless you’re thinking of certain regional films.
1. Which Pakistani film, reimagining iconic
characters from the ‘70s with a new cast and
narrative, emerged as the highest-grossing Pakistani film, featuring the
country’s top stars?
a) Waar
b) The Legend of Maula Jatt
c) Punjab Nahi Jaungi
d) Jawani Phir Nahi Ani
2. Which Pakistani film actor had the honor of making her Indian film debut alongside Shahrukh Khan?
a) Mahira Khan
b) Meera
c) Sajal Ali
d) Saba Qamar
3. Which Pakistani film
director shines as a brilliant actor, embodying the role of an Urdu short story writer with impeccable diction, in contrast to Indian actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who also depicted the same character in a film by Nandita Das?
a) Bilal Lashari
b) Asim Raza
c) Nadeem Baig
d) Sarmad Khoosat
4. Which film marked the directorial debut of Kamal Khan, a seasoned director renowned for his work on Coke Studio?
a) Gutur Gutur
b) Kabootar Ja Ja Ja
c) Laal Kabootar
d) Ek Kabootar, Do Kabootar, Teen Kabootar
Answers
1. ‑b) The Legend of Maula Jatt, featuring Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, and Humaima Malick, stands as the highest grossing Pakistani film, amassing over 400 crores worldwide, as confirmed by producer Ammara Hikmat. Although some of the characters are from the 1979 Pakistani classic, Maula Jatt, the screenplay was rewritten by writer Nasir Adeeb and the film’s director, Bilal Lashari and was not a remake of the original film.
2.‑ a) Mahira Khan indeed had a stroke of luck in this aspect, making her debut in Indian cinema alongside superstar Shahrukh Khan with the movie, Raees. Released in 2017, it marked an anticipated milestone in Mahira’s potential career in Bollywood. However, due to political tensions between India and Pakistan, that opportunity never came to fruition. Nonetheless, we can still cherish Mahira and Shahrukh Khan’s delightful chemistry in the aforementioned film.
3. ‑d) Sarmad Khoosat demonstrates his versatility not only as a director but also as a compelling actor. In the film Manto, he not only wore the director’s hat but also portrayed the titular character. Even though Nawazuddin Siddiqui is a brilliant actor, he couldn’t bring the same degree of gripping complexity to his portrayal of the same character.
4. ‑c) Laal Kabootar marked the impressive directorial debut of the magnificent Kamal Khan. Boasting a fast-paced script, hypnotizing music, and an authentic portrayal of Karachi, the film earned praise from both fans and critics. Kamal Khan’s outstanding work as a first-time filmmaker earned him the prestigious Lux Style Award for Best Director in 2020. From casting to music to showcasing Karachi almost like a character, it was one of the most spectacular films to release in Pakistani cinema’s history. We can’t wait to see what Kamal Khan does next - as a filmmaker.
