The Nueplex Film Festival kicked off in Karachi with a focus on highlighting young talent and independent filmmakers. Held at Nueplex cinemas, the three-day event aims to showcase 18 films by emerging filmmakers, aiming to create cinematic excellence despite limited experience and resources.
On the opening day, nine films, including Discarded, Circus, Cardiac Arrest, Barzakh, Shikray Ka Gudda, Reverie, Ticket to Paradise, Haibat, and Sentinel Jet, were featured, with another nine scheduled for presentation today. Sharmeen Ali, the director of Reverie, expressed her joy at being part of the festival, considering it an honor for her film to be nominated and recognized. She emphasized the valuable opportunity to have her film evaluated by industry leaders like Bee Gul, Humayun Saeed, Siraj ul Haq, Zanjabeel Asim Shah, and Nadeem Baig.
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Director Siraj ul Haq highlighted the diversity of films shown on the first day, noting that the standout moment was the inclusion of science fiction films by Pakistani directors. He emphasized the significance of exploring this genre on a global scale and the potential for Pakistani stories to reach a broader audience.
Taha Chaudhry, portraying the antagonist in Sentinel Jet, discussed the challenges faced due to limited resources while creating a sci-fi film in Pakistan. Despite limitations in makeup and production, he commended the team’s efforts, expressing his enthusiasm for participating in a neo-noir and futuristic film.
Addressing the importance of storytelling in films, the festival management introduced the Best Screenplay Award. Jury member Bee Gul observed that while concepts were present, the execution through scripts was a weak aspect of the films showcased on the first day.
The festival continues with the presentation of the remaining nine films today, culminating in an award distribution ceremony on day three. Categories include Best Director, Best Film, Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Sound Design, and Best Production Design, in addition to the Best Screenplay Award.
