Pakistani filmmakers have impressed everyone in 2024 with amazing stories, great acting and beautiful visuals. This year, Pakistani cinema delivered unique stories that challenged stereotypes and conveyed powerful messages. Here are The Current’s top five picks for best Pakistani films of 2024.
1. The Glassworker
The Glassworker is Pakistan first animated feature film, which is a visually stunning masterpiece, It tells a moving love story between Vincent, a glassblower, and Alliz, a colonel’s daughter, set against the backdrop of war. Directed by Usman Riaz and written by Moya O’ Shea, the film is produced by Mano Animation Studios.
The Glassworker was also selected as Pakistan’s Oscar submission. The film is inspired by Studio Ghibli and has set a new benchmark for Pakistani cinema. The cast includes Art Malik, Sacha Dhawan, and Maya Saroya.
2. Poppay Ki Wedding
Poppay Ki Wedding is a romantic comedy that explores the story of a modern man returns home for his sister’s wedding only to find his family has arranged his marriage to a stranger. The film humorously tackles traditional customs while delivering heartwarming moments. With its fresh take on relationships, Poppay Ki Wedding could be one time watch film. It’s directed and written by Kanza Zia and the cast includes Nazish Jahangir, Khushhal Khan, Rehan Sheikh, Sara Aijaz and Aleezay Rasul.
3. Taxali Gate
Taxali Gate takes a bold approach to sensitive issues like consent, set against the vibrant backdrop of Lahore’s historic old city. Directed and written by Abu Aleeha, the film’s stars includes, Yasir Hussain, Mehar Bano, Ayesha Omer, Nayyar Ejaz, and Ally Khan. The film is one of Abu Aleeha’s best works, blending social commentary with emotional storytelling.
4. Na Baligh Afraad
Na Baligh Afraad, set in the 90s, follows two teenaged brothers, Mazhar and Fakhar, whose innocence leads them into a series of comedic misadventures.
The film is directed and written by Nabeel Qureshi and produced by Fizza Qureshi. It features an outstanding cast, including Meera, Rimha Ahmed, Mohammed Ehteshamuddin, Samar Jafri, and Aashir Wajahat. With its nostalgic vibe and laugh-out-loud moments, this film is a must-watch.
5. Nayab
Nayab tells the story of a young woman portrayed by Yumna Zaidi determined to break stereotypes by playing cricket in Pakistan’s national team.
The film is directed by Umair Nasir Ali and written by Basit and Ali Abbas Naqvi. Its talented cast is compromised o fYumna Zaidi, Usama Khan, Adan Siddqui, Javed Sheikh, Fawad Khan. Nayab also won the Best Foreign Film’ award at World Film Festival in Cannes.
These films defined 2024 with their creativity, bold themes, and unforgettable performances. Which one did you enjoy the most?