Saturday 31 May 2014

Did you know? Shaan is expecting an apology from Ali Zafar

Various eminent personalities of the film industry have expressed their displeasure over singer Ali Zafar’s reaction to Shaan Shahid’s negative comments on artistes going across the border to work. Writer-director Mohammad Pervaiz Kaleem said that Shaan evidently loves his country and advocates national integrity while singer Ali Zafar is ignorant about such patriotic emotions. “Our country is our identity. What is appreciable is to use our talent for our own country. Ali Zafar needs to call Shaan Shahid and apologise to him,” added Pervaiz, reported Roznama Express.
Other renowned individuals from the world of entertainment such as director Altaf Hussain also spoke up, saying that those artistes who, because of monetary greed, fall into India’s lap clearly cannot appreciate their own country. He further spoke about Shaan’s father’s patriotism and how Shaan hasn’t let go of his nationalistic roots. Hussain encouraged Ali Zafar to apologise for his unacceptable behaviour.
Filmmaker Chaudhry Ijaz Kamran said that when someone loves their country, they use their talents for the good of their country. “Ali Zafar’s sentiments might be favourably inclined towards India but Shaan Shahid had rejected an offer to work in Bollywood for the sake of his country and instead placed greater importance in offering his services to the Pakistani film industry. Shaan’s families’ services for this country are not hidden from anyone. Ali Zafar needs to respect his seniors and apologise to Shaan for his non-serious attitude,” the filmmaker added.
According to sources, this backlash from the film fraternity was a result of Shaan approaching the Urdu press, asking them to tilt the ongoing controversy in his favour.
In all honesty, Ali has nothing to apologise for and apologising to Shaan is nothing but bizarre.

Sunday 25 May 2014

Operation 021: First theatrical trailer released

Poster of Operation 021.
KARACHI: One Motion Pictures and Azad Film Co have released the first theatrical trailer for Operation 021 which is expected to be screened later this year.
The 2:25 minutes long trailer shows Shaan Shahid in the lead as a rogue agent, along with the likes of Aamina Sheikh, Shamoon Abbasi, Hameed Sheikh and veteran actor Ayub Khoso.
This film is the brain child of Zeba Bakhtiar and her 19 year old son Azan Sami Khan. It is based on a screenplay by award winning writer Summer Nicks and directed by Jami.
The trailer also shows off some of the action in the film, hinting that it will be an action thriller.
Style wise, the film looks similar to the blockbuster Waar, which had also starred Shaan in a similar role.
The film is expected to be released later this year.

Did you know? Meera should play heroine’s elder sister at this age, says Sangeeta

Renowned actor-director Sangeeta says that Meera falls in the league of senior actors now and should play the role of a heroine’s elder sister instead of that of a lead,Roznama Express reported.
She says that Meera and other actors in this age bracket should try playing more challenging and unique characters. The new wave of Pakistani cinema should be associated with a new generation of artistes especially because the actors of the previous generation are no longer suitable to play lead roles.
She reckons that the Pakistani film industry is gradually evolving and Karachi has been producing a considerable number of films that have supported the industry. She is optimistic that Lahore will soon join the race of making quality films and we will witness Lollywood flourish in the future.
Sangeeta, who also ventured into the world of television, was given a tribute last month in which many of her contemporaries lauded her efforts. Whether her comments about Meera are justified or not, one wonders about Sangeeta’s own relevance in this new wave of filmmaking that she herself has referred to.

Saturday 24 May 2014

When cinema was king

There was a time not so very long ago, when there was no television and family members huddled around radio sets to listen to their favorite programs. It was also a time that people in search of entertainment made a beeline for cinema halls - for this was indeed the Golden Era of Pakistani Films. Cinema halls did roaring business and the silver screen was resplendent with quality movies like ‘Intezar’, ‘Armaan’ and ‘Yakkay Wali.’ Then blight descended upon the industry in the shape of cheap action filled movies featuring obscene dances, gory sequences and dialogues that deterred decent family viewing. Some critics also blamed television for the decline and near extinction of cinema and they may have been right because cinema going families now turned to watching good entertainment on the small screen, in the privacy of their homes.

Lahore was undoubtedly the ‘Hollywood’ of Pakistan (the word Lollywood had not yet been invented) and the two major studios on Multan Road produced excellent stuff. Lahore also showcased some great cinema halls; Plaza, Regal and Odeon showed English movies, while Sanobar, Capital and Nishat were known for Urdu and (occasional) Punjabi films. Rex and Auriga were later additions to the list, while Malik Theatre was a popular pre-independence cinema hall outside Bhatti Gate, which was snottily never reckoned amongst the names listed above.

There were usually four ‘classes’ in (good) cinemas starting from the front rows in the main hall that terraced upwards. One could buy a seat here for only twelve aanas or three quarters of a rupee. Watching the movie from the front rows was torture as one had to tilt one’s head upwards at a very uncomfortable angle. The back rows in the main hall were classified as the Dress Circle separated from the twelve aana rows by a chain. These seats were on higher elevation, each costing two rupees and four aanas. This was a category that was very popular with middle class families and was overshadowed by a curving balcony on top. It was known by no other name than the ‘balcony’ where each seat cost two rupees and ten aanas. This was where most cinema goers with means could be found. Overlooking the balcony were eight to ten private boxes. These were equipped with plush sofas and velvet curtains, with an entrance door in the rear. Each box could accommodate eight people, who were served refreshments and snacks on demand.

Plaza Cinema was a very popular venue for two reasons – one, it showed blockbuster Twentieth Century Fox Films and second, because it had a dancing school located on the first floor en route to the ‘balcony and boxes. It was while watching a movie in this theatre along with a young relative, that a large magnitude earthquake hit the city. As the building began swaying and the lights went out, I found myself the only occupant of the hall. Even today, whenever I happen to pass by the spot (accompanied by the gentleman who is now a senior bureaucrat), we remember the incident and laugh at our divergent responses.

All movies in those days began with a black and white newsreel called ‘Pakistan ka Tasweeri Khabarnama.’ This was followed by a cartoon and some trailers before the actual movie began. The show ended with the Pakistani flag appearing onscreen and the playing of the National Anthem. I remember that there was no talking and much less fidgeting in the hall than one sees now, whenever the National Anthem was played.

Mercifully, a few creative and brave souls took it upon themselves to revive cinema in Pakistan and succeeded in doing so. We can now proudly say that our films, such as ‘Khuda ke liye,’ ‘Mein Hun Shahid Afridi’ and ‘Waar’ can compete with movies made in Bollywood or Hollywood. By all indicators and standards, the Golden Age of Films has returned to Pakistan.

Naina Baloch believes in hard work for success

naina Lollywood actress – model Naina Baloch says, “I am bold, true, but getting famous through scandals; is not my scene.” Talking to the media Naina further said that she believes in hard work therefore to get recognised; she doesn’t need cheap publicity, reports PopBluster.
On the occasion of a very recent commercial shoot, Pakistani model, actress Naina Baloch admitted that she’s bold but made it very clear that to attain success; she won’t be involved in any scandal(s) and won’t look for a shortcut either.

“I strongly believe in hard work, only hard work, and soon my fans would see me on the silver screen and make my name through my talent.”

Friday 23 May 2014

Zeba Bakhtiar's 'Operation 021' set to release this year


Pakistan's spy action thriller, Operation 021, is set to release later this year on Eid-ul-Adha.
The film has been produced by Zeba Bakhtiar and her son Azaan Sami Khan, in collaboration with Australian director Summer Nicks.
Launched as a project of One Motion Pictures, the film has Shaan Shahid starring as the lead actor, with supporting roles played by Shamoon Abbasi, Aamina Sheikh and Ayub Khoso.
Filmed mostly in the remote rural areas of Pakistan, Operation 021 is scripted to address the political events in Pakistan and bring awareness to the Pakistani audience.

Thursday 22 May 2014

Did you know?: Adnan Siddiqui to be seen in Pakistani film Yalgaar

Television actor Adnan Siddiqui, who has been affiliated with the entertainment industry since more than two decades, will soon be seen depicting an important role in Pakistani film Yalgaar. Adnan shares that he will be portraying the character of an army officer in the film, which has been directed by Dr  Hassan Waqas Rana, reports Roznama Express.
The actor says he has been doing unique and challenging roles in television serials, but those who are envious of his success are relentlessly trying to spread negative propaganda. “While some are worried about my age, some object to young female actors being cast opposite me,” he says. “But none of this bothers me,” he comments. “I do my work with honesty and determination. I always try that my acting reflects reality.”
Adnan expresses that despite having been a part of the industry for many years, he continues to do good work, which is why the audience appreciates his acting. “This is why producers of private productions and private channels make and air my drama serials with keen interest. And this is also why I have a multitude of fans in the country and abroad who like my work.”
Other than earning his spurs through mega-budget serials, he is hopeful that his role inYalgaar will be commended by film enthusiasts. The movie is the most expensive Pakistani film that is being made.
Adnan has acted in television serials such as Meri Zaat Zara-e-Benishan (2009) and Maat(2011). He also played a small role along with Hollywood actor Angelina Jolie in the film A Mighty Heart (2007).

Tuesday 20 May 2014

Samina Peerzada to pull Lollywood out of crises


Samina-Peerzada Pakistan’s veteran actress-turned Lollywood director Samina Peerzada plans two new films. The 59-year-old has decided to take measures to ‘pull’ Pakistani Film Industry out of the prevailing disappointing situation; by directing two films. Samina thus wants the things ready at the earliest.

“I really feel regretted to look at the present condition of Lollywood Industry,” says the Pakistani television and film actress. Samina, who has appeared on both silver and small screens on numerous occasions, added further, “All I wish is to bring the Pakistani families and moviegoers back to cinemas smiling, happy and satisfied; that their time and money wasn’t wasted.”

Towards the end of her conversation, Samina revealed her plans about doing at least two new films about which she said, “the initial homework is already underway.”

Friday 16 May 2014

‘Who was that?’ Edhi asks after meeting Veena

Veena said that philanthropists like Edhi are the need of the hour for this country. PHOTO: FILE
KARACHI: 
Actor Veena Malik recently went to Edhi Homes to inquire about the health of Abdul Sattar Edhi. After the young female actor left with the swarm of cameras accompanying her, Abdul Sattar Edhi unassumingly asked, “Who was that?” A teenage girl beside him smiled and replied, “Veena Malik”.
The congested poverty stricken area of Old Karachi houses the philanthropic headquarters of Edhi Homes, which had a celebrity visitor on Wednesday but Edhi was quite unaware of that. Veena Malik entered the ground floor of the lobby where Edhi was seated and greeted him.
“I have wanted to meet you for ages. Philanthropists like you are the need of the hour for this country.” While clutching his hand tightly, she said, “My family members and I have been regularly praying for your speedy recovery.”
To this, Edhi said in a low tone, “Do pray to the Almighty to allow me to do more work for others.” Malik smiled and raised her hands to pray. But the well-respected philanthropist had no idea who was praying for him.
Speaking to the media, who had surrounded them, she said, “It’s an honour for me to meet him in person. We are two ambassadors of human rights. Even if Pakistanis, in general, do 0.1% of the good he has done for the suffering humanity, the country will be a better place to live in. I wish and I hope to follow his footsteps.”
Malik said she is in talks with the International Human Rights Commission regarding the role she would like to play in three principle areas concerning health, education and women empowerment.
Her husband Asad Basheer Khan Khattak, who had accompanied her, said “It is my childhood dream to come and meet Edhi sahib. I don’t have the words to describe it.”
During a five-day visit to Karachi, Veena also paid a visit to Abdullah Shah Ghazi’s tomb and was hoping she could visit M.A Jinnah’s tomb as well and pay her regards to the founder of the nation.  When questioned if she plans on meeting politicians residing in the city, she said, “No, that’s not in the schedule.” However, with the budget release round the corner, she hoped that the government would initiate projects for the promotion of Pakistani culture and nationalism.

Monday 12 May 2014

“There is now a class system in the industry”


“There is now a class system in the industry”



What made you decide to return to the silver screen after an absence of eight years?
I started my career in cinema in 1995 and stayed active for more than a decade. During the period I made more than seventy-five films, several of which went diamond, platinum, gold and silver jubilee. Jeeva, Love 95 and Chor Machaye Shor were wildly successful and broke several records at the box office. As an actor, I came to be recognized not just from my looks and glamour but also for my acting and intelligence. But all the success notwithstanding, I started getting bored in the film industry after about spending ten years in cinema. I started feeling that I had accomplished what one could have in Pakistani cinema at the time and wanted to explore new avenues. So I returned to television and modeling, and slowly moved away from cinema.
But there was an item number you did for the film Chup.
Yes, there was. Shan is a veteran of the film industry and a good friend of mine. Chupwas his film and I wanted to be a part of the project. Doing an item number, as you call it, was a good way to work in Chup and have some fun. Shaan did an excellent job with the sets, lighting, music and costumes for my song. It was something new for me and I enjoyed doing it.
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Swaarangi is one of the most visually appealing films ever made in Pakistan
Coming back to your return to cinema…
Yes. I had been looking for a challenging role. I could not do more films of the kind I had already done and needed to work in one that was different, off-beat and daring.Swaarangi was that film.
Did you find the film industry to have changed much during your absence?
The industry has seen a lot of change in the last decade, particularly in the last couple of years. Most of the change has been for the good. Technology is behind a lot of it. New Digital SLRs, the RED series, the Panavision Genesis and other digital cameras have made it possible to make high quality films without using film. The cameras cost less to acquire and operate. A lot of functions such as editing and creating special effects is infinitely easier in the digital world. We no longer have to worry about wasting film by doing multiple retakes.
There have been other changes as well. Producers and directors have now moved out of their studios and are shooting in actual homes and on location. Poorly crafted sets no longer bring the quality of films down. My film Swaarangi has been shot on location in its entirety and the results are stunning. I think it is one of the most visually appealing films ever made in Pakistan.
Photo by Ammar Shareef
Photo by Ammar Shareef
One positive change – the one that actually got me to return to film – has been an increase in the number of subjects explored in our films. We are no longer limited to making love stories with songs and dances. Khuda Ke Liye, Bol, Lamha, Zinda Bhaag,Waar, and Chambeli broke new ground in Pakistani cinema. Films like these were not made in Pakistan in the past.
A lot of ‘new’ people have entered the film industry. Quite a few are very well-educated and have a lot of exposure to good cinema and the arts. The current set of filmmakers come from a variety of social, educational, cultural and financial backgrounds and have their own inqie talent, skill and persuasion. The diversity has led to the intellectual growth of Pakistani cinema.
Have there been any negative changes?
Yes. A class system has been introduced in the industry. People with better education, with more money and social standing, tend to look down upon veterans of the industry. They believe that they belong to a ‘superior’ class of filmmakers. This is wrong. One has to value and respect seniority and experience.  Our seniors, perhaps a little less educated, kept the industry alive through the years. And it was not always easy.
What is Swaarangi about?
Swaarangi is an art movie about the role of a woman in our patriarchal society. It shows the burden and responsibility a Pakistani woman carries on her shoulders and how she deals with adversity, unfairness and misfortune. The film celebrates the strength, integrity and resilience of the Pakistani woman.
I play Salma, a beleaguered woman whose husband is a drug addict and dependent on his wife in more ways than one. The wife believes in standing by her man’s side, and is in love with him, inexplicably, but struggles with the problems caused by his addiction. They are surrounded by people who do not want to see the husband kick his habit. The movie documents the tragic actions taken by the husband to support his habit and the catastrophic effect they have on Salma’s life. It is a sad but meaningful story.
Resham, Ally Adnan & Sharoot Adnan
Resham, Ally Adnan & Sharoot Adnan
How was the experience of working for an off-beat film and with a team relatively new to feature films?
It was a very fulfilling experience. This was the kind of film I had been wanting to do for a long time; the more I understood Salma’s character, the more I enjoyed it. I do not think people all over the world realize the weight that a Pakistani woman carries on her shoulders. I am grateful that I have been able to play a part in a film that honours her strength.
The teams was wonderful. The director, Fida Hussain, and producer, Mazhar Abbas, are new to the film industry. Absolutely wonderful people. Watching the earnestness and sincerity with which they worked on the film brought tears of happiness to my eyes. My two principal co-stars – Naveed Akbar and Waseem Mazoor – are new to films as well but very talented. They are also a lot of fun.  We had a great time during the shooting of the film. I hope to work with the team again.
You have been in show business for more than twenty years now. Have you enjoyed being in the limelight?
I guess you can say that I have. My career in show business has afforded me many benefits – money, social status, certain entitlements and cultural awareness; but I have had my share of adversity as well. The ups and downs one inevitably sees in the film industry are a great teacher. They certainly were for me. I learnt the value of money, success and celebrity in this industry. I learnt how to recognize true friends from amongst the many people who surround a successful star. I learnt how to deal with the capricious behavior of people, and the fickle nature of their friendships, when I was down. Most importantly, I learnt a lot about myself. My experience helped me understand who I was as a person, what really mattered to me, what made me happy, what caused sadness and what I looked for in friendships.
Resham and Babra Sharif
Resham and Babra Sharif
Friendship with Babra Sharif adds a lot of happiness to my life
Do you have meaningful friendships?
Yes, I do. I have very good friends both in the film and fashion industry as well as out of it. One of my closest friends is the very glamorous film actor of yesteryears, Babra Sharif. She is an intelligent, warm and wise person; her friendship adds a lot of happiness to my life.
What was your first experience in the film industry?
My first experience may well have been my best one. Syed Noor sahib cast me in his film Sangam after seeing me model. He is a seasoned director who has introduced many new people to the film industry. He worked diligently with me as I learnt the craft, and made sure that my debut in cinema was perfect. I put my heart and my soul into Sangam and the result, thankfully, was very good. It was a film I won the national award for. I think my performances in Sangam and in Sameena Peerzada’s Inteha are two of my best ones.
Was it easy for you to get into the film industry?
Yes, it was. I was lucky in that regard. I had been modeling and working on television for a while before Syed Noor sahib spotted me. He wanted someone who understood acting but was new to cinema. I fit the bill. Unlike a lot of others, I did not have to struggle to secure my first starring role in a feature film.
Do you attribute your success in the film world to your looks or to your talent?
I certainly hope that it is more talent than looks, but in an industry such as cinema, looks do matter and help. They certainly did in my case.
Doing an item number was a good way to have some fun
How did you learn to act?
Television played a great role in teaching me how to act. I believe that I was always an artist on the inside but my experience in television made me a complete actor. Reading the script, understanding character, delivering dialogue, facing the camera, managing continuity, reacting to other actors’ performances,  being relaxed on set – these, and many other things, need to be learned. Television helped me in this area. I developed my proficiency and skills in acting by working in television plays. Pakistan Television is a venerable institution, a university, if you will, one that has trained and groomed some of the finest actors of Pakistan. We must never forget that.
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You have worked as a model, in feature films, on television and on stage. What is it that you have enjoyed the most?
I enjoy television the most, followed by film. Modeling is fun but not as fulfilling as acting.
What do you enjoy doing when not performing?
I enjoy reading books. It is my first love. I read both prose and poetry. I am also a lover of music. I enjoy good music and always have something on when alone.
I have not been romantically involved with anyone since
Is there a man in your life today?
No, not today. There was one up until three years ago but I have not been romantically involved with anyone since. I am enjoying being single.
Do you plan to get married and raise a family?
Yes, yes, yes!  I am planning on getting married and hoping to find, very soon, the right person to spend the rest of my life with. And, yes, I want to raise a family.
Do you have any regrets about the life that you have led?
No, I do not. I have been fortunate to have had success both in my personal and my professional life. I have mostly made the right decisions and learnt from the ones that were wrong. Some not-so-good things have happened in my life but, I believe, that everything happens for a reason. We may not always understand them but there are benefits associated with adversity. I am happy with the life I have led thus far. Very happy.
What keeps Resham going?
It is my passion for doing well in my field. I want to always continue to improve and evolve as an actor; my ambition and desire to do more, and to do better, keeps me going.
What does the future hold for Resham?
It is difficult to predict the future but I know that I will always be an actor and that I will marry and raise a family. I think the two are not mutually exclusive. I do not subscribe to the misogynistic view that a woman has to choose between family and career. She does not. Absolutely not. A woman can do well in both. There is no limit to what a woman can accomplish.

Friday 9 May 2014

ARY boasts of first ever ARY Film Awards 2014

ARY Film Awards 2014
ARY Film Awards 2014
ARY Network has been celebrating after the success of its first ever Pakistani movie awards called ARY Film Awards.

The event took place at the end of May at the DHA Golf Club, Karachi. It celebrated and honored filmmakers, writers, actors and artists who have been instrumental in reinvigorating the Pakistani film industry.
After establishing ARY Films as the country’s leading films company, ARY held one of the biggest ever film awards in Pakistan’s history. This event also aims to serve as a platform to motivate the young blood that has been injected into this decades old passion of the nation.

The master of the ceremony was Lollywood superstar Shan, and was later joined by co-hosts: TV stars Fahad Mustafa, Hamza Abbasi, Sarwat Gillani and the pop sensation Ayesha Omar. The awards were divided into three different categories i.e. The Viewer’s Choice Awards, Jury Awards and Technical Awards.

The show featured entertaining performances by Amna Illyas, Khurram Patras on a song from their internationally acclaimed movie ‘Zinda Bhag’. Avid dance performer Ahsan Khan also shared the stage with actresses Urwa Hocain and Ushna Shah dancing to a medley of songs, Marium performed a song the upcoming movie ‘Pura Chand’. The handsome Humayun Saeed and the young Noman Habib performed with the sensational Mathira on a song from their popular movie ‘Main Hoon Shahid Afridi’. Young hearththrob Sheheryaar Munawar and the promising Sohai Abro danced on a song from the upcoming movie ‘Kambakht’. Film industry stars Saima, Noor and the legendary Babra Sharif also graced the stage and did special dance performances for the audience.
Apart from these star studded performances the show also featured glittering line up of Award Presenters like Waqar Ali Khan, Saba Qamar, Sangeeta, Mustafa Qureshi, Tapu Javeri, Maheen Khan, Aijaz Aslam, Noor, Meesha Shafi, Yasir Nawaz and Nida Yasir, HSY, Ayaan, Sanam Baloch, Wassay Chaudary, Faisal Qureshi, Sunita, Ali Zafar, Mohib Mirza, Ayesha Khan, Nomi Ansari, Sana Bucha, Asad-ul-Haq, Zeba Bakhtiar, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, Syed Noor, Saima, Asim Raza, Iman Ali, Humayun Saeed, Humaima, Javed Shiekh and Reema Khan.

Speaking about the event the Founder and President of ARY Digital Network Mr. Salman Iqbal said, “As far as films is concerned, I would like to say that it is our mission to take things forward one step at a time. Last year we presented some great movies and this year we are creating a platform where great movies will be appreciated. I think that Pakistan has lost many years as far as the development of the film industry is concerned so we must all join hands and take out talent of our industry to where the international films and global cinema stand today”.
“Another milestone is achieved by the Pakistan’s film industry with ARY Film Awards. It is a matter of pride for us that we are creating another platform to appreciate the talent of Pakistan and motivate the young and creative to make more films year after year and keep the ball rolling”.

ARY Film Awards 2014 will broadcast on ARY Digital during Eid period this year (July).

Thursday 8 May 2014

Did you know?: Mah-e-Meer a film inspired by Mir unveiled

Miraqsm Media presents Mah-e-Meer, a film by Sarmad Sehbai and directed by Anjum Shehzad.
Miraqsm Media presents Mah-e-Meer, a film by Sarmad Sehbai and directed by Anjum Shehzad. The movie is inspired by the work of Mir Taqi Mir, the first classical master of Urdu poetry. Mah-e-Meer meaning the promiscuous moon is a story that follows the struggle of a contemporary poet and draws parallels with events in Mir’s life.
His conflict with the royal court, his romance with a courtesan, his ideals of bringing Urdu poetry to the people in the streets and his eventual madness in full moon; all reflected in his poetry. The official trailer of the film, produced by Badar Ikram and Khurram Shahzad is out. The film is featuring Manzar Sehbai as Dr Kareem, Fahad Mustafa as the lead role Jamal, Iman Ali as Mahtab, Sanam Saeed as Naina Kanwal and Aly Khan as Nawab Sahab.
The movie has five songs knitted in the script, which are written by veteran writer and director Sarmad Sehbai. This will be Sarmad Sehbai’s cinematic premiere.
The total running time of the film is 120 minutes and the film is currently undergoing its post-production phase.  According to the producers of the movie, Badar Ikram and Khurram Rana, negotiations with distributors are under way and release details will be finalised soon.

Tuesday 6 May 2014

Celebrating the new face of Pakistani cinema


KARACHI- Lights - camera - action. Let the show begin. After a hiatus of nearly a decade Pakistan film industry is on the roll again. This is evident from the activity and glamour generated by the first ARY Film Awards 2014 held the other day at the DHA Golf Club. It was celebration of the revival of Pakistani film industry. The filmmakers, writers, actors and artists who have been instrumental for this revival were honoured at the event, which was perhaps the biggest ever film awards held in Pakistan’s history.

It all began about a year ago when ARY announced launch of ARY Films a company that would support Pakistani film industry. Around eight films were released last year under its banner. It is heartening to know that at last our movies are going global as most of these films were also released in UK, UAE and some other countries. It was a good beginning as now the company has 25 films projects at hand. It decided to hold first ARY Film Awards 2014 as a platform to motivate the young blood that has been entered the field and come up with new innovative ideas in filmmaking.

The new face of the cinema was none other than superstar Shan, who has acted in 575 films and is spearheading the campaign for revival of cinema industry. The 43-year-old actor is acting in a number of new films and making movies as well. Shan was the main host at the event and opened the grand awards ceremony. Over the years his hosting skills have honed and now one can safely say he is one of the best. He was witty and humble at the same time, which is the sign of a good host. The respect he showed to all his senior artistes and colleagues was appreciable. But there was one thing that Shan should avoid in future and that is getting personal with some guest. His remarks about people working in India and abroad and the remarks by Ali Zafar to which Shan replied twice were uncalled for and should have been avoided.
Shan He was later joined by co-hosts: TV stars Fahad Mustafa, Hamza Abbasi, Sarwat Gillani and the pop sensation Ayesha Omar. It was heartening to see that all the audience gave a standing ovation to film legend Nadeem Baig when he came on stage to receive Lifetime Achievement Award.

The awards were divided into 3 different categories i.e. The Viewer’s Choice Awards, Jury Awards and Technical Awards. The awards ceremony also featured entertaining performances by Amna Illyas, Khurram Patras on a song from their internationally acclaimed movie Zinda Bhag. Heartthrob Ahsan Khan and actresses Urwa Hocain and Ushna Shah danced to a medley of songs. Ahsan Khan’s grand entry from up above the stage with the help of a crane was applauded by the audience. Marium performed a song the upcoming movie Pura Chand. The handsome Humayun Saeed and the young Noman Habib performed with the sensational Mathira on a song from their popular movie Main Hoon Shahid Afridi. Young hearththrob Sheheryaar Munawar and the promising Sohai Abro danced on a song from the upcoming movie Kambakht.  Film industry stars Saima, Noor and the legendary Babra Sharif also graced the stage and did special dance performances.

Fahad
Apart from these star studded performances the show also featured glittering line up of Award Presenters like Waqar Ali Khan, Saba Qamar, Sangeeta, Mustafa Qureshi, Tapu Javeri, Maheen Khan, Aijaz Aslam, Noor, Meesha Shafi, Yasir Nawaz and Nida Yasir, HSY, Ayaan, Sanam Baloch, Wassay Chaudary, Faisal Qureshi, Sunita, Ali Zafar, Mohib Mirza, Ayesha Khan, Nomi Ansari, Sana Bucha, Asad-ul-Haq, Zeba Bakhtiar, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, Syed Noor, Saima, Asim Raza, Iman Ali, Humayun Saeed, Humaima, Jawed Shiekh and Reema Khan.
ARY Film Awards were Presented by Nokia, Powered by L’OrĂ©al  Paris Total Repair-5, Refreshed by Tang and Brought to you by Pel and Tarang. The Hair and Make-up was done by the creative teams at Nabila and N-Gents, PR of the event was handled by Tehmina Khaled’s Take-II.

Speaking on the occasion Founder and President of ARY Digital Network Salman Iqbal said “As far as films is concerned, I would like to say that it is our mission to take things forward one step at a time. Last year we presented some great movies and this year we are creating a platform where great movies will be appreciated. I think that Pakistan has lost many years as far as the development of the film industry is concerned so we must all join hands and take out talent of our industry to where the international films and global cinema stand today”.

Jerjees Seja, CEO ARY Digital Network said, “Another milestone is achieved by the Pakistan’s film industry with ARY Film Awards. It is a matter of pride for us that we are creating another platform to appreciate the talent of Pakistan and motivate the young and creative to make more films year after year and keep the ball rolling”.
The show which continued till late hours of the night also showcased the upcoming movies that would be supported by ARY. The cast and main crew members were introduced to the audience while trailers and posters of these films were also shown to the audience. Shan has brought rights of Indian film Arth. He is making the movie with new script and filmmaking techniques. Humaima would be playing the female lead in it. Waar 2 and film Yalgaar are also in pipeline. The trailer of film Jaleebi was also shown and its cast that includes mostly new young artistes were introduced. The show containing pure Pakistani content was a huge success and brought together all the ‘who is who’ of the film and TV industry. The initiative’s success can be gauged from the fact that a number of people have started thinking about entering the film industry. Famous designer HSY is planning to make a movie for which he has already started work on the script. Yes it may be hard to believe but he is himself writing the script and hopes to direct it too. Well he is not new to film industry. He choreographed and directed a song in the blockbuster Teray pyar mein in the year 2000. Shan and Zara Sheikh played the lead roles in the film. Actor Shamoon is making a film ‘Gidh’ for which he has signed Shan in the lead role. Similarly TV anchor Amir Ghauri is also planning to make a feature film and is also writing its script. Like them a number of young people in their conversation with this scribe showed interest in acting or being part of film projects. This renewed interest in Pakistani films is a good sign that good days are around the corner and our cinemas will once again be buzzing with activity.



Viewer’s
Choice Award



Best Film
Waar (Winner)
Zinda Bhaag
Main hon Shahid Afridi
Chambaili
Ishq Khuda

Best Actor Male
Shaan -Waar (Winner)
Humayun Saeed -Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Mohib Mirza -Lamha
Khurram Patras- Zinda Bhaag
Adnan Shah Tipu -JOSH
Ahsan Khan – Ishq Khuda

Best Actor Female
Amina ilyas -Zinda Bhaag
Amina Sheikh -Lamha
Aisha Khan -Waar (Winner)
Hareem farooq -Siyyah
Mahnoor Baloch -Main Hon Shahid Afridi

Best Director
Ismail Jillani -Chambaili
Meenu & Farjad -Zinda Bhaag
Bilal Lashari -Waar (Winner)
Syed Ali Raza (osama) -Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Shahzad Rafique -Ishq Khuda
Azfar Jafri -Siyyah

Best Supporting Actor Male
Hamza Ali Abbasi -Waar (Winner)
Noman Habib -Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Ehtisham -Chambaili
Gohar Rasheed -Lamha
Salman Ahmed Khan -Zinda Bhaag

Best Supporting Actor Female
Meesha Shafi -Waar (Winner)
Ainny Jaffri -Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Mahnoor Usman -Siyyah
Naghma Begum -Zinda Bhaag
Naila Jaafri -JOSH

Best Performance in a Comic Role
Ismail Tara- Main Hon Shahid Afridi (Winner)
Zohib -Zinda Bhaag

Best Music
Sahir ali Bagga- Zinda Bhaag
Najam Shiraz-Chambaili
Kami- Shani – Main Hon Shahid Afridi (Winner)
Amir Munawar – WAAR
Wajahat Attre -Ishq Khuda

Best Performance in a Negative Role
Javed Sheikh – Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Shafqat Cheema-Chambaili
Shamoon Abbasi- WAAR (Winner)
Mahnoor Usman -Siyyah
Naseeruddin Shah- Zinda Bhaag

Star Debut Male
Khurram Patras- Zinda Bhaag
Hamza Ali Abbasi – Main Hon Shahid Afridi (Winner)
Ehtisham – Chambaili
Ali Azmat -WAAR
Noman Habib – Main Hon Shahid Afridi

Star Debut Female
Amna ilyas- Zinda Bhaag
Aisha Khan – WAAR (Winner)
Amina Sheikh -Lamha
Ainny Jafri – Main Hon Shahid Afridi
Maira Khan- Chambaili

Best Independent Movie
Josh (Winner)
Lamha
Siyaah

Best Singer Male
Rahat Fateh Ali -Zinda Bhaag (Winner)
Abrar ul haq -Zinda Bhaag
Umair Jaswal -Waar



Technical Award



Best Action (Hasan Waqas Rana)
Best Background score (Sahir Ali Bhagga)
Cinematography (Bilal Lashari)
Best Choreography (Pappu Samaraj)
Best Dialogue (Wasay Chaudhari)
Best Editing (Bilal Lashari )
Best Story (MINU AND FARJAD)
Best Screen Play (Usama Khalid BUTT )
Best Special Effects (waar)
Best Make-up (Nabila)
Best Costume Design (Sara Ghandhapur)

Jury’s Choice Award

Best Film (Zinda Bhag)
Best Actor Male (Humanyun Saeed)
Best Actor Female (Amna Ilyas)
Best Director (Bilal Lashari)