Pakistan hit a historic high this week by showing their first-ever all Pakistani-based feature film in Berlin film festival.
“Lali,” directed by Sarmad Sultan Khoosat had its world premiere on Thursday to a packed audience.
The screening was well received, especially by members of Berlin’s Pakistani community, including Pakistan’s ambassador to Germany.
Khoosat called it an achievement and at the same time a responsibility. He called the premiere a “sign of validation” of a story rooted deeply in local culture and language.
A tragedy with Dark Humour
Set in Sahiwal, the black comedy film in Punjabi is about Sajawal, played by Channan Hanif, and his new bride Zeba, played by Mamya Shajaffar.
Rumors are swirling around their neighborhood since Zeba’s previous suitors died she is under a curse.
The film is a mixture of sharp humour and social commentary. Much of the comic energy is provided by Sajawal’s outspoken mother, Sohni Ammi.
In one memorable scene, she encourages men in the neighbourhood to fire celebratory gunshots at the wedding, to end up with an injury herself.
Balancing Humour and Serious Topics
While comedic on the surface, “Lali” also touches on some deep issues including desire, sexuality, trauma and hints of the supernatural.
Khoosat has gone out of his way to ensure that nothing in the film is physically impossible, even when events seem magical.
The story paints an interesting balance of realism and suggestion.
A New Generation of Pakistani Cinema
Khoosat thinks the film symbolises a new generation of filmmakers in Pakistan. He added that there has been a slow decline in the country’s film industry over the past 20 years.
“Before that, we had a big cinema scene which made more than 100 movies a year,” he said.
However, the industry had problems in adapting with the changing media landscapes as well as newer audiences.
Khoosat hopes that the international attention will be gained for films such as “Lali” to help revitalise the cinema at home and provide an opportunity for new talent.
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