1. Festival Fever: “Ghost School” & “Lali”
Pakistani cinema is making waves on the global stage this month as the 76th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) begins.
- “Ghost School”: British-Pakistani filmmaker Seemab Gul is premiering her debut feature, which uses “magical realism” to explore the haunting reality of abandoned schools in rural Sindh and Balochistan.
- “Lali”: Acclaimed director Sarmad Khoosat‘s latest film, Lali, is also set for its European premiere at Berlinale. The film is described as a dark, surreal exploration of human emotions.
2. The Return of the Superstars
Fans are buzzing about the reunion of Pakistan’s most beloved on-screen pairs.
- Mahira Khan & Fahad Mustafa: Following the success of Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, the duo has wrapped up their next big film, tentatively titled “Aag Lagay Basti Mein” (ALBM). Produced by Big Bang Entertainment, the teaser released in January showed the stars in daku-style masks, hinting at a high-octane heist comedy. It is slated for a major 2026 release.
- “Neelofar”: After its worldwide release in late 2025, the Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan starrer continues to be a topic of discussion for its poetic storytelling and Mahira’s portrayal of a visually impaired woman.
3. Local Film Festivals
- Women International Film Festival (WIFF X): The 10th edition of this festival is currently taking place in Lahore (Feb 14–15). It is showcasing 23 women-led films from around the world, providing a platform for female directors to share diverse social narratives.
- Margalla Film Festival: Concluded on February 9 in Islamabad, celebrating independent cinema with screenings like Frontline: Kashmir and Beyond the Wetlands (the first feature shot at -30°C in the K2 region).
