A treat to watch indeed

‘Joyland’ is a film that is sure to be remembered for years to come

Director Saim Sadiq’s debut feature film, ‘Joyland’ is a poignant and thought-provoking drama about the conflicting gender identities and repressed desires that exist within a conservative society. The film, which was Pakistan’s official entry to the 95th Academy Awards and successfully made it to the shortlist, is a masterful blend of craft and content, appealing to both discerning and popular audiences alike.

Contrary to its title, “Joyland” is achingly gloomy, but at the same time, there is an inherent current of intrigue in the way it is plotted that keeps the audience engaged throughout the melancholic narrative. The film’s writers and characters have the rare ability to look at the lighter side of serious situations, making it a layered experience for audiences who may have grown tired of the typical “woke” essays on patriarchy and queer relationships.

The setting of the film is Lahore, but it could easily be any other city in the region, as the characters and their struggles are relatable to anyone familiar with the inter-generational dynamics and changing social mores of conservative societies. The film’s protagonist, Haider (played by Ali Junejo), is a tender and delicate young man who is unable to sacrifice a goat in a scene that inverts traditional gender roles. He is more comfortable running errands and helping with household chores, and is ultimately drawn to the transgender starlet Biba (played by Alina Khan), with whom he begins a journey of self-discovery.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its unflinching exploration of controversial issues such as transgender rights and gender bias against them. The film’s depiction of these issues is both nuanced and unsparing, raising important questions about the societal construction of gender. The film’s portrayal of gay characters is sensitive and nuanced, avoiding stereotypical representations and instead showing the complexities of homosexual identities and relationships.

The performances of the film’s lead actors are nothing short of terrific, with Alina Khan and Rasti Farooq delivering powerful and nuanced performances that bring the film’s characters to life in a realistic and relatable way. The film’s cinematography and soundtrack are also noteworthy, adding depth and texture to the overall experience.

Despite being banned in Pakistan upon its initial release, “Joyland” has since been lifted and being run in different cinemas across the country, and has been awarded in India. The film’s powerful and thought-provoking exploration of these issues makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of contemporary Pakistani society.

A rare treat to watch indeed, “Joyland” is a powerful and thought-challenging film that takes a deep dive into the lives of a Pakistani family, exploring the challenges and sacrifices of working women, the struggles of a gay family member, and the complexities of marriage and desire. With a masterful blend of drama, humour, and social commentary, “Joyland” is a film that is sure to be remembered for years to come.