Joyland (2022) User Reviews

Joyland (2022)

[maitrasagnik · 8/10 · 10 December 2022]

Through the course of every year, there are a few movies which I mark as the most anticipated ones. Ever since I first watched the trailer for Joyland, I was intrigued and looking forward to experiencing it. Over the course of time, the film gathered accolades in the festival circuit and was banned in its home country of Pakistan. I finally had the opportunity to watch it last week and I was not disappointed. I do have an issue with the film but that is not regarding its quality . More on that later.

This one is a bold film and the director Saim Safiq must be hailed to have the guts to make this film coming from where he is. The smart thing here is that he does not go about demonizing or critiquing something as sensitive as religion. Rather, he attacks the evil of patriarchy and the devastating effect it can have on a family breaking out from its core till nothing is left. While we mostly have films over here which shows how the women are affected by patriarchy, this film does a wonderful job in portraying that it is equally toxic for the men as it thursts unreal expectation of being a Man right from their birth.

Joyland primarily deals with the joint family headed by the father Rana Amanullah and the family of his two sons - Haider and Salim. Each member of the family has their own dynamic. Everyone tries to fit in but each has their own unrequited wants which they are striving for. Haider is the black sheep of the family who, despite his best efforts, cannot live up to the expectations of his father or of the society. He finally finds his calling after he gets a job as a background dancer at a dance group led by Biba. Biba is a transgender in Pakistan trying to carve a place in the society but is not given a chance. Sparks immediately fly between them when the two misfits meet each other. This relation sets in motion a butterfly effect, the results of which are not pleasant.

The acting is brilliant all across the board and the dialouges and screenplay are both commendable but mature. This film shows a mirror to the audience about the everyday casual wrong-doings happening all around us. We can either turn a blind eye to it or address it .The choice is ours as the audience. No one here is a villain, but just trying to live their life as per the standards set for them and trying to break the glass ceiling one step at a time.

Now, coming to the issue of the film. I think the trailer for this film actually did the film a disservice. This film is no way only about the relation between Biba and Haider. People who have not watched the movie are protesting for all the wrong reasons. This is a far more mature film which addresses issues faced by everyone - right from the youngest member of the family to the eldest one. The best scene in this movie, for me,does not even involve Biba. It is the pre-climax scene which has to be the most tender yet the most telling scene in this movie. It packs a punch and by the time the credit rolls, you realise you just finished watching one of the top films of the year.

All the Fun of the Unfair...

[Xstal · 8/10 · 6 March 2023]

The prison you call home has let you go, exchanging places with your wife to earn some dough, leaves her trapped and isolated, while you become more animated, and discover what deep down, you've always known; as you fall for dancer Biba who you're supporting, on the stage but after hours you are cavorting, in a world that can be rigid, you find yourself no longer frigid, then you misjudge the whole vibe, with your contorting.

It's a wonderful and brave piece of cinema that breaks boundaries by some measure (and quite rightly so), as Haider falls for the elegant transgender Biba, and his wife Mumtaz pays the penalty for his indiscretions.

Social-revolutionary film from Pakistan

[chong_an · 7/10 · 14 September 2022]

This depiction of Pakistan is patriarchal and misogynistic. The almost-70 patriach of the Rana clan rules, while the son of the neighboring widow tries to control his mother. Regardless of education or qualifications, women are supposed to be housewives and bearer of (preferably male) children.

Younger son Haider is in an unconventional arranged marriage. Wife Mumtaz works at a beauty salon, while he stays home and is uncle-parent to his nieces. Being belittled and harassed by his father for not working, he accepts a job suggested by a friend as a backup dancer - to Biba, a trans woman - while telling his family that the job is a theater manager. As someone who has never left his home city of Lahore, he falls in love with this more-worldly woman, and his late-night "work" has his wife suspicious.

By western standards, the production values are erratic, and I may have missed some minor plot points due to that. The acting is believable, and the depiction of life is good (I liked the scene in the "women's car" on mass transit.) The film is daring in the subject matter of trans folk and non-traditional sexuality. I saw this at the Toronto International Film Festival, where in the Q+A the director admitted difficulty in casting Haider, when some actors turned down the role after learning of the story. The title, incidentally, refers not just to the amusement park that plays a minor role, but also to people trying to find their place of happiness.

Just what Pakistani cinema needs

[shagnificent · 9/10 · 1 December 2022]

There was much hue and cry about the movie citing it a movie about "LGBT's". Naturally I went expecting a movies centered around that but was pleasantly surprised with everything else the movie had to offer leaving the much talked about issue only secondary. It touched a lot of issues that are neither acknowledged or accepted in Pakistani society and hence no one addresses them.

The protagonist is basically a beta male; Haider living in a patriarchal household where his (alpha) brother is the main breadwinner but has been unable to father a son (despite having 4 daughters) to continue family lineage. There is a Haider in every house in Pakistan who is not allowed to make his life decisions for himself; whether the girl he marries, having the option to "allow" her to work, he cant even have privacy with his wife as his nieces are made to sleep with his wife. AND he is supposed to be the breadwinner and not his wife no matter what profession choices he has to resort it. It is therefore natural for him to fall for a strong willed trans he starts working for at the theatre. The theatre culture in Pakistan is beautifully depicted.

Some things that stood out for me; I really liked the scene where the family is having dinner and its decided that haider's wife will quit her job without her having a say in it. Everyone else getting excited about the baby boy to be born to carry the family name except the mother bearing the child; the inner turmoil of that mother resulting in drastic actions. The treatment of trans in public transport. The neighbor; an aged woman's having no right to make her life decisions. There are just so many relatable scenes in the movie bring so many shades of Pakistani culture to light that I can just keep going on and on about.....

In the end I would like to commend the brilliant acting of Alina Khan as biba, she literally stole the show. Haider's role wasn't easy to play as well so kudos to Ali Junejo as well.

I will be looking forward to more masterpieces by Saim Sadiq.

Best film to come out of Pakistani industry in years

[farazmushtaqk · 10/10 · 2 December 2022]

I guess people have forgotten the difference between the meanings of "promotion" and "depiction". For those who really don't know what these words mean: promotion means to encourage, to support something. And depiction means to show something, to make people aware of something by showing it to them.

Now, Joyland, nowhere in its 126 minutes run supports or encourages or "promotes" homosexuality or anything that is anti-Islamic. In fact, this isn't even the only theme of the film. It covers pretty much every aspect of the domestic life of a lower middle-class Pakistani man and a woman (I didn't mention transgender person because those poor things have only one class of lifestyle). It shows every harsh reality of our society. It shows all the plagues our country is being devoured by, those which aren't remotely related to Islam but have become a part of our tradition despite being highly toxic. These are the stigmas that we suffer from in our lives but no one wants to get rid of them because they have been here for so long that they have become normal. And a life without them would be abnormal or even disgraceful and shameful according to our "elders".

The film does show the homosexuality that exists in our country. It doesn't tell whether its good or bad, it just shows it. The only thing that could be a negative point in my opinion would be the graphic scenes. They weren't really that necessary.

In the end, I would say that Joyland is probably the best film that's come out of Pakistani industry in a long time. We need to support such films and accept the existence of all the brutalities of the society they make us aware about. And lastly, try to do something about them.

The tragedy called life

[Sillyreviews · 7/10 · 18 February 2024]

Joyland is a deep, emotional and quite sad film. The moments of happiness are quite often also wrapped in pain and guilt and the sad moments take the lead in the whole story.

Joyland is a film about a Pakistani man that finds a job as a background dancer in an erotic theatre. The main dancer is trans, who you can see struggles with how she is perceived in society as "not a real woman". The two fall in love which causes problems between the man and his wife. Who live with the father, brother, wife in-law (and their kids), of the man. Who are more conservative.

This film shows the struggles of people who fall out of order in the traditional Pakistani society. Women who want to work although they are married, trans people who are not perceived as the gender they embody no matter what they do and men who don't fit in the masculine stereotype set out by society.

The cinematography and ambience is great in this film. The reason why I gave it a 7 ( although more of an 7,5) was because at times the story felt somewhat slow and boring in a sense, although quite some stuff was happening. I would say over all you should absolutely watch this beautiful film, it will bring you in touch with a world you probably haven't seen before.

Joyland is a pertinent reflection of historically underrepresented voices in society.

[afsheenmq · 10/10 · 7 October 2022]

Joyland is a pertinent reflection of historically underrepresented voices in society. It is relatable to anyone who feels excluded from social opportunities or feels unheard and unseen, or simply feel as if they do not belong....

Joyland juggles heavy subject matters with such integrity. In the 126 minutes the characters offend as readily as they amuse the audience with the reality of not pursuing their dream or desires and settling for something they don't want.

The cinematography and visuals are mesmerising, and absolutely brilliant acting by all actors.

Do not miss this MASTERPIECE......

Well Done But Somewhat Overhyped

[brentsbulletinboard · 7/10 · 30 April 2023]

Wiping away sexual taboos in countries where the culture's tolerance for such things is, shall we say, somewhat "limited" can indeed be a slow, painful and difficult process. Such conditions are presented with remarkable candor on a number of fronts in this groundbreaking debut feature from Pakistani writer-director Saim Sadiq, who unflinchingly depicts the frustration that many are feeling in a nation yearning for greater social acceptance and personal freedom when it comes to alternate lifestyles. And this work is certainly commendable for the bold, courageous steps it has taken in this regard. However, these ideas are far from anything new in the world of cinema, and, as I watched this film, I couldn't help but think that the praise that has been heaped on it is somewhat hyped, primarily because of the venue in which the story is set. Don't get me wrong - this is a well-made picture, and I would imagine that the impact it has had on its country of origin is substantial, but I don't believe it's quite on par with the sweeping accolades that have been showered upon it. (Its victory at the Independent Spirit Awards for Best International Film, for example, was an overstatement in my book compared to some of the other nominees.) As a first feature for the filmmaker, it's a fine work that shows a great deal of promise for its creator, who clearly possesses an abundance of talent that I can't wait to see further developed. But there are elements of his craft that could use some further refinement to elevate him to the level of the big leagues (case in point, a conclusion that has been done several times before and almost comes across as trite here). "Joyland" certainly makes a powerful statement that needs to be said (and acted upon), and it does so in a highly capable way, but aspects of it could have been improved upon to make this a truly great film worthy of the honors that have been bestowed upon it.

A love letter to Pakistan

[zhyusuf-925-960315 · 10/10 · 18 November 2022]

Sad that after recieving clearance for release by a special committee formed by PM Shehbaz Sharif, the film #Joyland gets banned by Punjab Government; And that politicians/ adults in Pakistan would be so petty and spiteful as to deny people their fundamental right to live.

The film that's giving the LGBTQ community in Pakistan a voice, has been banned yet again in Pakistan. Can't use personal religious belief to ignore morals that demand equality among all humans. Love is understanding.

Telling people what to do with their body has emerged as a social sickness of the 21st Century. People who cannot change, are telling people not to change. Future isn't something you passively wait for, but something you create yourself.

We have to start making sense as humans. That every human has the right to live is a moral, not a religious issue.

a valiant effort

[onefineday36 · 6/10 · 31 March 2023]

For a film from a third world country to get an international distribution and recognition, international film festivals are often the only option. Most of these festivals take place in major Western countries, and films aiming to get an invitation from them are inevitably either artistically, stylistically or topically set to appease their taste to a degree. 'Joyland' is definitely one such an example, and without anyway disapproving the importance of the subject matters it touches, I feel it does sacrifice the gritty authenticity. I was very impressed how polished product it is, but at the same time, I kind of wished there were a bit less blue and orange lightings and bit less arty compositions of the scenes.

But there's no denying 'Joyland' is a valiant effort, and a pretty mature product overall. It has to be praised for its bravery considering where it's from; most characters are multi dimensional with moments of both strength and vulnerability; conjures up the complex mixed themes of sexuality, feminism and social bigotory pretty efficiently; and as a result, 2 hour long run time was not slow or boring at all.

I hope this film creates enough recognition and footing for the director and writer so that their next effort could be something transcends a 'festival film'.

Excellent Drama! Bad acting ?? Really?

[talharaheel90 · 9/10 · 20 November 2022]

This movie is getting hate for no reason. It's a flawless family drama! The Acting is superb and the cinematography is mesmerizing. People claiming that the acting is bad, might be blind. The narrative is so interesting that the run time felt short to me. 2 hours passed by pretty quickly. This movie is made for proper movie watchers, not some casuals. Cinematic literacy is needed here. Don't go to it thinking that you'll get a cliche masala movie. Make sure you watch it If you enjoy good acting, cinematography and a well written narrative. I'd say it's the best Pakistani movie ever made. P. S i haven't seen maula Jutt yet.

Missed Opportunities and Contrived Romance

[temur_tariq · 6/10 · 8 August 2023]

"Joyland" attempts to weave a narrative that delves into themes of identity and unconventional romance, but ultimately struggles to strike a meaningful chord. The film's premise, revolving around Haider's misrepresentation of his job and his infatuation with Biba, a strong-willed trans woman, has the potential to explore societal taboos and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. However, it appears that the execution falls short of expectations.

Despite the initial intrigue, the movie seems to struggle in effectively addressing the social issues it aims to highlight. Rather than skillfully weaving these themes into the story, the inclusion of unnecessary vulgarity and cringeworthy moments detracts from the intended message. The cultural representation, particularly the portrayal of a conservative Pakistani family, appears inaccurate and out of touch with the reality of inner Lahore. The smoking scene on the rooftop and the portrayal of a woman staying alone at a neighbor's place seem detached from the cultural norms and dynamics.

Furthermore, the romantic subplot between Haider and Biba feels contrived and lacks the necessary depth to make their connection believable. The absence of a well-developed backstory explaining Haider's sudden infatuation with Biba leaves audiences struggling to connect with their relationship. This lack of emotional investment weakens the overall impact of the film.

"Joyland" seems to have taken inspiration from Bollywood films that tackle social issues in India, yet it fails to replicate their success in addressing relevant topics within its Pakistani context. Despite a potentially thought-provoking premise, the film ultimately falters due to its weak storytelling, misguided attempts at shock value, and a disconnect from the cultural and emotional aspects it attempts to depict. The backlash the film has received is reflective of its missed opportunities and underwhelming execution.

While the film falls short in its main plotline, it does manage to shed light on the challenges women face in a patriarchal society. The portrayal of clinical depression and its lack of recognition in third-world countries is commendable, serving as a brighter spot in an otherwise lackluster narrative.

Okay-ish drama

[Karthikhari_9404 · 5/10 · 2 January 2024]

It's an okay-ish drama. There were moments I enjoyed, but the movie as a whole wasn't that gripping for me. The movie makes an effort to tell stories of multiple characters, but each one felt incomplete. Would have liked to see more.

It had some good performances. Sarwat Gilani, the actor who played the character Nucchi, was my favorite. She didn't have that much screentime, but in the time she got, she put up a great performance.

The cinematography was nice. The aspect ratio gives off a claustrophobic vibe, which I think is to represent the boxed-in feeling the characters have. The movie also had some beautiful frames.

Fantastic!

[shehzeenmuzaffar · 10/10 · 22 November 2022]

The fact that I got to watch this in a Pakistani cinema feels really great.

Joyland is a movie told in moments and every scene still has me in a chokehold. I was sobbing by the end and for me, if a movie can move you to tears then its a great one!

It will also make you very uncomfortable and it should because what we see on the screen is a reality of every women and every trans person. This is our life on screen and its a mirror to our society.

The cast was stellar and I truly hope that Pakistanis continue to make movies that tells a real story. I am also so freaking proud that we didn't let the bigots win this time.

A brilliant film

[scottjtepper · 10/10 · 3 November 2022]

This is a brilliant film. It will be a strong entry in the Foreign Film category, but like Parasite it should also receive a Best Picture nomination. And Alina Khan is revelatory. She deserves a nomination as Best Actress. But the entire cast is fantastic.

I was fortunate enough to see a special screening of this film and was moved by it.

At a time when transgender rights are a divisive social issue in the United States, one can only imagine how much more difficult it is for a transgender person in a strict Muslim society. This film touches upon that issue, but is broader than that. This is a film of love, family, expectation and belonging.

I was stunned by the ending. This film is a masterpiece.

Joyland

[CinemaSerf · 7/10 · 25 February 2023]

The title here is a theme park that features only tangentially in this enjoyable and potent tale of "Haider" (Ali Junejo). He lives with his extended family, unemployed, whilst his wife "Mumtaz" (Rasti Farooq) goes to work. He is a bit put upon: he must carry out many of the household chores - even doing the ironing for his brother "Saleem" (Sameer Sohail). His brother has just had a child - another daughter and his father (Salmaan Peerzada) is desperate for a boy to carry on the family name. "Haider" goes and gets himself a job - and an unlikely one, at that. HeThanks to his friend, he auditions for a dancer's job at the local theatre and despite having two left feet, manages to secure a job at 40,000 Rupees per month for just two concerts. He fibs to his family about the exact nature of the job, and is soon flailing around at the behest "Biba" (Alina Khan) who is the undoubted star of the show. As we progress, however, we discover that there is a bit more to "Biba" the originally thought and as the two become friends we also discover a little more behind the reasons why a son is so slow in coming for the otherwise loving married couple. There is an effective chemistry between Khan and Junejo and as the story unfolds we are exposed to quite a few scenarios that challenge established (admittedly, Western) views of just how society should operate - from the role of both women and men through to the increasingly obvious issues faced by people who don't run in that linear two-horse race. It is funny at times and the dialogue is efficient at helping this characterful story along towards the denouement. Now this is where I felt a little disappointed. Not that it doesn't work - but somehow it seemed to me to be a bit of a sad cop-out from the writers who almost seemed to go along with the prevailing spirit of compliance at all costs. Still, you must judge that for yourselves if you watch it - which I suggest that you do.

Wonderful, well written and tragic

[martinpersson97 · 10/10 · 30 September 2023]

This incredible, and in its homeland controversial, feature - already shortlisted for an Oscar, is definitely deserving of all the praise it has gotten.

The themes and explorations of personal imprisonment and sociatal expectations are very powerfully conveyed - and the actors all do an incredible job.

The cinematography, cutting and editing is great, and it is all around beautifully put together.

Overall, a very tragic, real and subtle script that does not dwell in clichés, to say the least - and is all around very complex.

Definitely a very profound and powerful drama, that is highly recommended for any lover of film!

Beautiful and Interesting Romance story from Pakistan

[chenp-54708 · 7/10 · 1 February 2023]

Saw this at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival

"Joyland" is a story about the youngest son in a traditional Pakistani family takes a job as a backup dancer in a Bollywood-style burlesque, and he quickly becomes infatuated with the strong-willed trans woman who runs the show. "Joyland" won the Un Certain Regard Jury Prize at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival and I heard very positive things about this film. With the chance seeing it at Sundance, I can see why. The film follows a simple predictable story but what makes the film work is the direction, social commentary, production, and characters.

The deception of Pakistani families, culture, and lifestyle is well presented with each of these aspects were explored through the narrative. The characters that you may enjoy or not enjoy have their purposes of why they are they way they are and it's pretty well-explored. The production, costumes, and soundtrack is colorful and pretty bloated with beautiful patterns. I am not familiar with Pakistan cinema but those aspects reminded me a lot of Bollywood cinema. Saim Sadiq's direction felt fresh and realistic. All the performances from the cast members were excellent. Even the child actors were great. The chemistry between Ali Junejo and Alina Khan was excellent and I was able to buy into their romance.

While I did enjoy this film a lot, I wished I did love it more but there are a few issues I had with the film. With the simple narrative, it does get predictable and by the end, I kind of what able to predict a little what may happen next which is something I don't usually like to do. Some of the pacing could have been improved and certain dance sequences have some strange technical choices that I don't know if I like them. But the overall experience of watching Joyland had been great and I am glad I got to see it.

Rating: B+

marvelous / moving

[naseerbalochblonde · 10/10 · 24 November 2022]

I was really mad due to the banning of this movie but at last it got released and it's worth every penny.

Even though the movie was heavely censored and multiple scenes were cut i enjoyed it alot. If you are going to watch it be prepared for an emotional rooler coaster because you will be laughing once and then you'll cry.

The story is about a family in lahore which goes through alot of loving as well as uncomfortable situations, there is alot about mental health and the casual transphobia of pakistani people.

They also depicted the voilence against trans people, how they go through abuse from our society and they also depicted the high rates of killing of trans people in pakistan.

Go to the cinema and watch this.

[asnjahangir · 10/10 · 8 December 2022]

This is one of the best dramas I have ever seen (and I have seen a lot). Its raw, its real and its hard to digest because it depicts a side of the Pakistani society that everyone knows exists but no one wants to admit.

There has been a lot of baseless propaganda about this film just because it humanizes a trans person. That is it. There is literally nothing objectionable n this film.

In a society that treats trans people worse than animals, it is very hard for people to watch it when this movie shows a glimpse of our everyday reality. Whatever is shown in the movie happens in Pakistan everyday, literally.

It is not promoting or demonizing anything. It just shows who we really are. I feel sad for people who are rating it 1 star just because they heard somewhere that this movie promotes something againt their beliefs. What are your beliefs anyways?

Almost all 'khwaja sara's in Pakistan are abandoned by their parents at birth or after a few years. Does anyone critise that? Have you criticised the kind of humiliation they face everyday forno reason? Have you ever wondered where do these people come from? Are they some aliens or just humans like us born a little differently? The violence these people face everyday is beyond imagination. And it is very sad to see that some people are trying to get this movie banned because its an attempt to humanize the most vulnerable segment of the society.

I loved all the characters, loved the music, loved the setting and more than anything loved the acting. Everything together was a punch in the gut. It made me uncomfortable, it made me cry, it made me laugh outloud and beyond anything else, it made me think. I cant stop thinking about this movie since I watched it last night. Would happily watch it again over the weekend with my mother since I am in Pakistan only for a short while.

Congratulations to the creators and actors in this film. You have created a masterpiece.

One of the best South Asian movies ever

[vesndg · 10/10 · 4 December 2022]

Beautifully written/direct tale of a family's misfortune. Joyland left me in tears. Great Job Pakistan for promoting pure art. Great storyline and delivery!

Depiction of dance "mujraverse" was pretty nice. Hoping Joyland will pickup some major awards and open pathways for Pakistani art to become more mainstream. So much talent and cultural beauty that we can share with the world.

Lastly, to all supporting movie ban: Please take a close look at your society. It is what it is. People live diverse lives and they aren't going to change. That's the beauty of being human. Nothing against islam or Pakistani culture in this movie.

Reminiscent of American work by Tennessee Williams

[brucetwo-2 · 10/10 · 9 November 2023]

"Cat on a Hot Tin Roof"--married couples living under the roof of an elderly authoritative patriarch and the psychological and social and sexual frustrations they each endure.

Human nature may be the same everywhere. Decades after Williams' famous play and movie American society has moved on from one "extended" family of several generations living together to the post-WW2 "nuclear families" of Mom and Dad and 2 children living in their suburban homes. And now we have the "fragmented families" of today, with divorced couples, single parent households, LGBT children and adults.

Changes in the American economy helped make most of these changes in society and the family structure happen. And this change took place over many many decades here, with a great deal of conflict and upheaval.

In "Joyland" we see a third-world Pakistani family going through these changes. This film is especially good in showing the lives of several people in this family, in a believable way. This is more complete and more complex than the publicity and reviews would lead you to expect. It is much more than one Pakistani guy discovering his 'gay identity'.

Highly recommended!

Funny, dark, heartbreaking.

[tobypanatti · 9/10 · 5 March 2023]

Joyland is a film that defies genre, in equal parts romantic comedy, family drama and tragedy. This gem of a movie features incredible dialogue, beautiful cinematography, fully realised characters and some truly hilarious gags. It's a cliche, but you will laugh, cry but more importantly, think.

When the final credits roll you end up asking yourself, who is the villain in all of this? The answer is: society. All the characters in their own way are powerless victims of a patriarchal, heteronormative, deeply religious and conservative context that forces them into roles and circumstances that are beyond their control. The awful inevitability of their fates and the dark finale only serves to remind us that until we are all free to be ourselves, none of us are free.

Incredible film that needs to be seen.

Masterpiece

[gangeshgnair · 10/10 · 7 December 2022]

The word masterpiece is just not enough to define this movie. This is the first pakistani movie I am watching and I am sure this is definitely my most favorite movie of the year 2022. Each frame of the movie is like a painting. The cinematography is just so brilliant and marvelous. I am just out of words to define this movies beauty. The way they show the geography, the way the interior shots are staged and the lighting in thoes scenes, the scenes in the metro train, all are my favorite. There is nothing in this movie that i did not like or felt could have changed. The music is awsome, I mean such a groovy and nice music that just blends amazingly with the scenes. The writing of the characters is again something of a different level. Such amazing and compelling characters. Each character gets its complete expression in the movie. The dilouges are amazing, so natural. I seriously don't have words to describe the performances. Alina khan as Biba is the star of the movie, just so marvelous and beautiful. Ali junejo, rasti farooq, sarwat gilani, the father character and the kids, all give such natural and astonishing performances. The way this movie shows the intricacies and complications in a relationship is very rarely seen and shown in movies.

I can just keep on praising the movie. So happy to have seen such a amazing movie.

Excellent Movie

[faizan_fiqbal · 10/10 · 1 December 2022]

This movie has definitely raised the bar for Pakistani cinema. The cinematography and acting was top-notch. The story was beautifully shown and often gave goosebumps. The film touches on important issues like patriarchy and succeeds in this. The transgender community of Pakistan is less often treated like other communities. There several deep moments in the film where the viewer is forced to question stereotypes. Great job by saim sadiq and sarmad khoosat. It is sad to see why this film became controversial. It genuinely and accurately depicts the "Lahori" people and mindset. Highly recommend this movie!