Khuda Ke Liye Hindi Movie
Well, going by predictability, political correctness and the recent (and very welcome) spirit of bonhomie and goodwill surrounding relations and cultural exchange between India and Pakistan, I guess it would perhaps be appropriate to be nice and appreciate the first Pakistani film to find a release on this side of the border, especially since it is one that has been apparently appreciated worldwide for its groundbreaking portrayal of Islam and strong indictment of fundamentalism.
But then being nice is not really my job, and as much as it breaks my heart to say this- truth be said, Khuda Kay Liye is not exactly a great watch. Brave effort and noble attempt notwithstanding, the film is unquestionably a patchy effort, marred by didacticism and some limp performances. The film also gets tiresome after a point, and with its unnecessary and exhausting length of about 160 minutes, one is left desperately hoping for the film to end- for God's sake, if little else.
The film essentially attempts to capture the state of liberal Muslims caught up in a hostile post-9/11 environment, the evil perpetuated by fundamentalists and the burning debate within Islam about its image, beliefs and tenets. The film follows two parallel and related narrative strands, and the material has the meat and potential to be tremendously compelling, however it's a pity that doesn't quite happen. The only part of the story that perhaps manages to affect a little is that centered on Miriam, a UK born half Pakistani girl who is forcibly married to her cousin in Pakistan and consequently sentenced to a life of virtual imprisonment in Afghanistan. The scenes involving the suppressed womenfolk are particularly engaging and touching as we see the quiet desire of the women to live freely and help Miriam return to her own life.
Iman Ali, who plays Miriam, is also the only actor who manages to leave an impression, as the light eyed actress confidently portrays her character's journey through anger, desperation, hope and freedom. The rest of the actors including Shan, Fawad Khan and Rasheed Naz range from strictly average to pure cardboard- and Naseeruddin Shah are decent in his small rabble-rousing role.
Khuda Kay Liye is a bold effort, nevertheless- and it is good to see that it has been released and accepted with great warmth by the Pakistani audience. Though average at best as a film, it is a prayer for peace and sanity, something that the world really needs, and if the film manages to speak to its intended audience, Shoaib Mansoor can be proud of himself.
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