KARACHI: The Nueplex Film Festival kicked off in Karachi to highlight the work of young talent and indie filmmakers.
The three-day festival will showcase 18 films by emerging filmmakers, with a focus on creating cinematic magic despite limited experience and resources.
On the first day, nine films were screened, including “Discarded,” “Circus,” “Cardiac Arrest,” “Barzakh,” “Shikray Ka Gudda,” “Reverie,” “Ticket to Paradise,” “Haibat,” and “Sentinel Jet.” The festival has provided an opportunity for filmmakers like Sharmeen Ali, director of “Reverie,” to connect with peers and industry professionals. She expressed her excitement at being part of the festival and the honor of having her film nominated and shortlisted.
The festival also offers the chance for industry leaders such as writer Bee Gul, actor Humayun Saeed, director Sirajul Haq, writer Zanjabeel Asim Shah, and director Nadeem Baig to judge and critique the films. Director Siraj ul Haq highlighted the diversity of films showcased on the first day, particularly noting the presence of science fiction films, a genre not commonly explored by Pakistani filmmakers.
Actor Taha Chaudhry, known for his role in the sci-fi movie “Sentinel Jet,” discussed the challenges of working within a limited budget and the unique shooting style associated with the genre. He praised the team’s efforts in bringing the film to life, despite resource constraints.
However, Bee Gul, also a member of the jury, noted that scriptwriting was a weak aspect of the films showcased on the first day, emphasizing the importance of effectively conveying concepts through scripts.
The festival will continue with the screening of the remaining nine films, followed by an award distribution ceremony on the third day. Awards will be given in various categories including best screenplay, best director, best film, best actress, best actor, best editing, best cinematography, best sound design, and best production design.
