An exciting time it is for Pakistani cinema as we witness growth in filmmaking; a flux of movies, either in production or ready for release, and the variety of genres that are being tested by our filmmakers. One of the several films that is ready to head in the direction of the audience comes from Wajahat Kazmi Films. That film we are referring to is none other than Fatwa. Showbiz Pakistan interviewed Wajahat Kazmi to gain insights to his upcoming film, let's have a look at what he had to say...
Tell us about your upcoming film, Fatwa
Fatwa is an upcoming Pakistani film directed by Zeeshan Kazmi , written by Imran Haider and produced by Wajahat Kazmi Films. It stars Murtaza Raza, Hina Sadiq, Fani Jan, Atif Khan and Yawar Abbas in prominent roles. The film offers audience's the chance to explore the reasons of increasing extremism present in our society.
What is the message of the film and where did the idea for Fatwa come from?
Idea of Fatwa came into our minds by the current scenario of Pakistani society, where extremism has knocked on every other door; it was alarming and somebody had to take a step forward to state it. The film is an overview, a comment and a statement of what ordinary people are going through while living in 21st century Pakistan.
What were some of the challenges you faced when making the film?
It is always very difficult for independent filmmakers to plan and execute a film in Pakistan. The first challenge was the lack of human resources. Artists and technicians of Pakistan have not “practiced” film since a while, which affects.
overall quality and speed of the process. Secondly, the nature of project we were doing was very sensitive, due to which we were left with very few options in every department of filmmaking.
The teaser has been available for sometime now, what kind of response have you received from the audience who has watched the it?
People have completely appreciated it but there are some exceptions where people thought it’s a film made to malign Islam, our religion. We, at Wajahat Kazmi Films, would like to clarify the fact that this film has nothing like that, it definitely doesn’t target Islam or any of its sects and should not be taken in that context.
Tell us about the film locations
We needed an old city which is rich in architecture and culture. So, the film was shot mostly in houses, mosques and outdoors of Lahore, Pakistan and its surroundings.
When will the film be releasing?
We have a plan to get it released very soon, subject to censorship of the film.
What can we expect from Wajahat Kazmi Films in the future? Do you have other projects lined up?
There are, of course, couple of projects in the pipeline and we will announce them as soon they are scripted completely.
Finally, what can the audience expect from watching Fatwa?
They will get to experience what an ordinary Pakistani experiences every day when facing extremism and how it affects overall life of that individual who is its victim. They will be “engaged” rather than “entertained”.
Fatwa Director Zeeshan Kazmi:
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