Circus of Life

Keeping all controversies aside, the state's seriousness towards the performing arts genre becomes evident through the Directors' three-minute message before the film begins.

The movie started off with a powerful and engaging introduction, capturing the audience's attention from the beginning. However, as the story progressed, it seemed to lose its direction, and the film began to unfold shot by shot without a cohesive narrative, leaving the viewers somewhat perplexed.

Despite the film's weak storytelling, it was evident that the plot held great potential, presenting a captivating premise. Regrettably, this struggle with storytelling is a recurring issue that many Pakistani films face. It is essential for filmmakers to enhance their narrative techniques and pacing to fully realize the potential of their stories.

Amidst the film's shortcomings, the performances by Arif Hasan as Rahat Khawaja and Samiya Mumtaz as his wife were truly commendable. Arif Hasan's portrayal of Rahat Khawaja exuded strength and conviction throughout, while Samiya Mumtaz's portrayal of his wife added a touch of warmth to the movie. Their chemistry was delightful and proved to be the main highlight of the film.

In conclusion, while the film's promising beginning and stellar performances contributed to its appeal, the lack of a cohesive and well-developed storyline hindered its overall impact.

Finally, finally, finally I get to see "Zindagi Tamasha", a brainchild of the immensely talented Pakistani director, Sarmad Sultan Khoosat, that had not seen the light of day in cinema screens across the country due to its criticism and depiction of the mainstream religious clergy dominating the socio-political spectrum of the country.

Unfortunately though, the only medium graced by this movie, a considerable loss for all associated with the creation of this gem, was You Tube. Khoosat, in his introductory note, is visibly emotional as he lets his creation out of a cage imposed upon it by fundamentalists that have, for decades, proved to be an impediment to free artistic growth and expression in the country.

"Zindagi Tamasha" depicts an aging man who still has an air of youthful exuberance about him along-with a genuinely affectionate heart trapped in a quagmire of criticism and societal rejection when a video of him replicating a childhood dance to his friends is posted on social media.

"Zindagi Tamasha" depicts the human need to categorize events and characters into "right" and "wrong", "good" and "evil". It talks about how an intellectually starved society has no space to cultivate acceptance and fluidity of thought, emotions and opinions. Rather, every individual is expected to fit a mold, a pre-conceived caricature of righteous and non-righteous beings. In this belief, a transgender individual is an inherently evil being while an aged man who recites religious hymns is inherently pious, devoid of any interest in activities that do not fit the ideals of a dominant sect.

Voices like Sarmad Khoosat are key in the preservation of artistic expressionism in a country that has, in recent years, lost its voice out of fear and repudiation. In a spine-chilling scene a typical Molvi (cleric) unabashedly blackmails the protagonist, Rahat Khawaja, in a crowded gathering by saying, "Lagaun naara?" ("Should I raise the allegation?"), referring to the weaponization of archaic blasphemy laws prevalent in the country that to this day are used to stifle dissenting voices and minds.

A true gem of Pakistani cinema and a beacon of hope for independent, thought-provoking film-making in a country that is in dire need of it.

Just watched it after they released it for free on youtube.

The pace of the movie is rather slow but the acting from the leading characters is very good.

There aren't any dialogues or lines in the movie that stand out (comparing to other hit Pakistani movies like Bol/Khuda Kay Liye) but some scenes are very powerful. I really liked the scenes involving the hypocrisy of the clergy.

The soundtrack is nice as well.

Some, especially the international audience, might find the story slow or boring and might not really understand the subtleties of the topics in the movie, but it is quite relevant to the Pakistani society.

It's a good effort by everyone involved.

It's a truly remarkable film that takes a bold look at the complexities of society. The movie presents a heartfelt narrative that reveals the hidden truths and double standards prevalent in our world. Through its captivating storytelling, the film dives into themes of judgment, hypocrisy, and the misuse of religion.

Sarmad Khoosat's directorial finesse is evident in every frame. He didn't disappoint me, and my love for his direction and acting has increased. The movie doesn't just tell a story; it raises thought-provoking questions about our society's values and behaviors. It was an emotional rollercoaster and I felt the pain of the main character.

A must watch for everyone, don't know who are the idiots who banned it.

Kudos to creative team for dealing with subject of masculinity, patriarchy and religious orthodoxy in one go. Personal is political!

Characters i liked- Rahat had a stoic presence in the way he dealt with the mayhem around him. He was just being human and enjoying his little delights. Alas! Society thinks otherwise Son In Law - Such a sweetheart. Mediator between daughter and father. Supported the family without any judgment throughout. World needs more men like this

Being from a neighbouring country, could relate to each and every nuance portrayed in the movie.

Breach of privacy and memefication of someone's personal moments, that's how our society is behaving. Mercilessly, creating stir in one's life.

Appreciate the way LGBTQ community is showcased in many Pakistani dramas. Quite sensitive.

Overall, a must, is you want to watch drama without theatrics!