Film

Wakhri

Queer Creation

By Rimsha Kamran | February 2024


‘Wakhri,’ the much-anticipated Pakistani film directed by Iram Parveen Bilal, has finally graced screens nationwide, marking a collaboration with Mandviwala Entertainment following the success of ‘The Legend of Moula Jatt.’
This cinematic creation, brought to life by the production team of Abid Aziz Merchant, Apoorva Bakshi, and Iram Parveen Bilal, does more than entertain; it serves as a poignant exploration of societal challenges through the lens of a narrative inspired by the tragic real-life tale of Qandeel Baloch.

Set against the prevailing sociocultural situation, the film introduces us to Noor (Faryal Mehmood), a schoolteacher and single mother who quickly establishes herself as a resilient protagonist navigating life’s complexities. Accompanied by her queer confidante, Gucchi (Gulshan Majeed), Noor immerses herself in an underground club scene, celebrating independence with a diverse crowd to the beats of a high-energy pop song.

The narrative deftly unfolds, revealing Noor’s struggles, including the domestic pressure she faces from in-laws seeking custody of her son Sulay (Shees Sajjad Gul). Bilal skillfully portrays Noor’s borderline over-protectiveness, providing a touching thread that weaves through the film. Despite the challenges, Bilal ensures that the bond between Noor and Sulay is portrayed authentically, presenting a heartwarming aspect of the storyline.

In the classroom, Noor endeavors to empower young girls by teaching them Mathematics and Science while simultaneously striving to raise funds for an all-girls school—a testament to the hurdles faced in a society explicitly favoring boys. Gucchi’s narrative, dealing with societal expectations around heterosexual stereotypes, contributes visually but struggles to maintain momentum as the storyline progresses.

Faced with minimal success in fundraising through conventional means, Noor ingeniously creates the alter-ego Wakhri on social media. This character is sexy, outspoken, and unapologetic in speaking truth to power. Faryal Mehmood’s portrayal of Noor and Wakhri is praiseworthy, with hair and makeup artist Waqar Hussain’s talented work adding depth to the character transformations.

As Wakhri’s fame grows, so does the complexity of Noor’s double life, setting the stage for inevitable trouble. The film skillfully navigates these challenges, keeping viewers engaged in a gripping narrative that goes beyond the superficial allure of social media stardom.

Though the storyline of Wakhri is not new, the film does speak volumes about the immense talents of the young people running Pakistan’s film industry despite all odds and challenges. The film’s premiere at Nueplex Cinema in Karachi marked the commencement of its nationwide release, promising audiences an immersive experience with its compelling story and exceptional direction. Award-winning director Iram Parveen Bilal describes ‘Wakhri’ as a special project, a heartfelt tribute to women globally, aimed at amplifying the voices of the marginalized and bringing their stories to a global audience.

Producer Abid Aziz Merchant proudly notes the film’s recent acclaim at the Red Sea International Film Festival, underscoring its unique storytelling and direction. ‘Wakhri’ not only reflects the challenges faced by women but also serves as a mirror to societal norms, earning Pakistani cinema recognition on the global stage.