Lahore – The cast and crew of the Pakistani film Aar Paar — which has already bagged a record entry into eight international film festivals and won five to date, while it is awaiting the announcement of the categories it has won in, in the remaining three — held its press conference here earlier today to celebrate its laurels with the media and to give them an opportunity to meet the people behind its resounding success.
Produced by Kalakar Entertainments and written by Mashood Qadri whose earlier venture Saawan received over ten awards and was nominated for the Oscars by Pakistan’s Oscar Committee, Aar Paar has been directed by the talented Saleem Daad and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire cast and crew. The cast comprises a galaxy of veterans and upcoming sensations including the evergreen Moammar Rana, Shamyl Khan, Erum Akhtar, Okasha Gul, Mashood Qadri, Furqan Ahmed, Zuhab Khan, Ahmed Hassan, Areej Chaudhary and others. Ryena Moammar Rana, daughter of Moammar Rana also makes her debut in this movie.
The programme began with the host, Sumaira welcoming the guests and inviting the lead cast, producer and director on the stage. A presentation was shown of all the international awards that the film has won, after which clips from the movie and the trailer was shared with the audience.
Speaking on the occasion, Qadri said “This critically acclaimed film is a fine fusion of action, suspense, and drama while subtly tackling issues of women empowerment, delicate relationships, especially between a husband and wife, and friendships that stand the test of time. I am thrilled that Aar Paar has received so many awards and such rave reviews at prestigious international film festivals and feel proud that I am doing my little bit to put Pakistan on the map of quality entertainment providers.”
The cast and crew then fielded questions from the media after which high tea was served.
About the film:
The captivating plot follows the journey of friendship across borders – between Kamal (Shamyl Khan) and Arman Singh (Moammar Rana) — as well as their familial relationships (Kamal is married to the headstrong Sara played by Erum Akhtar and they have two children, while Arman is married to the simple Soniya (Ukasha Gul) and they have one daughter. Focusing on the challenges that life throws at them, it also showcases women empowerment and promises to be a game changer in the world of Pakistani cinema, introducing a narrative that challenges conventions and sparks conversations.
Aar Paar is set to hit theatres in Punjab this Eid-ul-Azha, promising an extraordinary cinematic experience that will captivate and resonate with audiences worldwide. With its compelling storyline, exceptional performances, and a focus on women’s empowerment, AAR PAAR is poised to become a milestone in the realm of cinema.
List of Festivals that have recognized Aar Paar as winner or shortlisted it for an award:
1. Ganges International Film Festival (GIFF) Award Winner Of Its 9th Season – (Category: Best Women’s Film Category)
2. Five Continents International Film Festival – (Category: Best Feature Film)
3. Sweden Film Awards 2023 – (Category: Best Drama)
4. Ponza Film Awards – (Category: Best Feature Film)
5. Calcutta International Cult Film Festival (CICFF) – (Category: Film On Women)
6. The Oniros Film Awards – (Category: Best Screenplay – Quarter Finalist Winner)
7. CKF International Film Festival (CKFIFF) — an IMDB-Listed Film Festival – (Category: Best Screenplay)
8. Belgrade International Film Festival – (Category: Best Original Screenplay)
