Good Morning Pakistan

A fresh and exceptionally well-acted narrative that puts a family in the midst of a conflict with stereotypes as role-models, at their worst, and best. The experience is like watching a documentary disguised as Bollywood/Lahore romance, with all the trappings, where the cast and director have conspired to signal there's something better afoot than the straightforward plot. The director has stated his artistic goal is to bring daylight to the oppressed conditions women endure in his home country, Pakistan, but also that of the hijras (transgender) community who are simultaneously normalized and victimized. The combination of straight-up message and compassion we witness in the cast, for each other, as well as the audience, succeeds in providing a much needed lift of hope in a longstanding history of despair and struggle.

Congratulations to Hassan Zee for inviting us to visit daily life in Pakistan, a Pakistan we don't often see through the terror-drenched headlines of newspapers and websites. Hassan highlights the brutal situation faced by women and trans people with humor and dignity, as he takes us into the rich culture of his home town - its markets, shrines, and music. Thanks, Hassan.

I was amazed, and not only the FIRST time that I saw this movie! Salaam Pakistan immediately shined as a new film that possessed beautiful, breath-taking views of the geography of Pakistan as well as intimate insights into the cultural dispositions that Pakistan yields.

Mastering the art of producing applause worthy films, Mr. Zee has crafted and delivered a poetic dance of gorgeous nature and dramatic theater scene by scene, calling for inspired investigation for where, why, and how this film was made. You'll be amazed at the hypnotizing beauty that Mr. Zee has captured here in his film.

Witness the vitality of this cast of actors as they marvellously unravel a thought-provoking plot bound by modern-day paradigm conflicts and clashes that challenge families and their communities world wide. Salaam Pakistan wastes no time here in providing it's audience gripping accounts of that an average family may face, because of not only multi-cultural roots, but also multi-cultural aspirations.

Get a hold of the film Salaam Pakistan! Invite a friend, share the film, enjoy it.. you won't regret it!

Before I walked into the theatre to see Salam Pakistan, I had no idea what Pakistan would actually look like. All I had ever thought about Pakistan is that it is a dangerous place. Where terrorists walked the streets caryying guns, and people hated America. Instead I was greeted by a relatable story of young man searching for his purpose by traveling to his home country a vibrant mesmerizing sight, which must be seen to believe. Amidst all the funny characters, beautiful locations and eastern beauties, I was left thinking about the true problems facing Pakistan. I was astonished to see the beautiful perfectly preserved shrines that decorates the lush landscape and how the belief in spirituality plays a part in the culture. My favorite character was Happy Heart who is never afraid to take little snips at other characters nor speak the truth no matter what.

I enjoyed the movie and commend the director in handling such a wide range of social issues in one film that hit right on target. The director's love for the village Chakwal and his homeland Pakistan is in every scene and his need to present the many social issues facing the country is quite apparent. I specially liked the name of the heroine, "Diya", (candle) as very appropriate. She is the candle that attracts the hero Omar to her flame and he himself noted that he would lose his soul without her. Omar exemplifies/symbolizes the "true lover" in Persian/Urdu poetry. "Happy Heart" is another great name for the character because he/she is always smiling and putting on a happy face even through adversity and discrimination. Happy Heart's character not only provides the comedy break in the movie but the sweeping arm movements, spur-of-the-moment dancing, exaggerated facial expressions, and somewhat catty comments are quite authentic. Omar has a desire to go back to his roots, a universal theme that most immigrants can relate to. The grandparents' love and understanding is very soothing. We understand why Omar would want to be near them. The home life depicted and general environment are also very relaxing to view and Omar seems very content in his decision to go back home. Even though I live in a moderately large city, I didn't feel claustrophobic and stifled in watching the small village surroundings because the scenery is infused with beautiful colors and I found peace in the natural tranquility of Chakwal. The ending is powerful because of the actress' heart-wrenching emotion and painful reason for her distress. Her restlessness and agony is a great way to present another social problem and injustice brought upon women in Pakistan. Through this film, the director, Dr. Hassan Zee, hopes to make a change in people's thoughts and behavior and at the minimum, present the social problems inherent in Pakistan that need to be addressed.