Pakistani cinema, often overshadowed on the international stage, just had a proud moment in China. At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival, two standout Pakistani films—Deemak and Nayab—walked away with prestigious awards, proving that the country’s film industry is stepping up in a big way.
Deemak: A Haunting Exploration of Trauma
Rafay Rashdi’s Deemak—a psychological horror starring Samina Peerzada, Faysal Quraishi, and Sonya Hussyn—took home the award for Best Editing, a nod to its layered, gripping storytelling. On the surface, it’s about a woman dealing with a mysterious bug infestation in her home. But it quickly becomes clear that the true horror lies within—trauma that festers beneath the surface, consuming her from the inside.
What makes Deemak stand out is how it weaves psychological tension and horror to explore mental health in a deeply symbolic way. Rashdi’s bold vision and nuanced storytelling left an impression on the international jury. The director called the win “a historic moment for Pakistani cinema on an international platform.” Sonya Hussyn, who accepted the award alongside him, shared her pride on Instagram, calling it “a proud moment for Pakistan.”
Nayab: Breaking Boundaries with Heart
On the other end of the genre spectrum, Nayab—directed by Umair Nasir Ali and starring Yumna Zaidi and Usama Khan—tackles the story of a young woman who dreams of playing professional cricket despite societal and familial pressures.
Far from being just another sports drama, Nayab digs into the challenges women face in male-dominated spaces. With themes of ambition, gender bias, and family expectations, it resonated powerfully with the jury at SCO. Out of 19 competing films, Nayab was honored with the Jury Special Award—a huge recognition of its emotional depth and authenticity.
Director Umair Nasir Ali was visibly moved, calling the win both “deeply personal and profoundly national.” More than just celebrating the film’s success, he emphasized the importance of telling stories that reflect Pakistan’s diverse voices and experiences. He also hinted at future international collaborations, particularly with China and other SCO member countries.
A Turning Point for Pakistani Cinema
What’s most exciting about these wins is what they represent: a bold new chapter for Pakistani filmmaking. Directors like Rashdi and Ali are taking creative risks—be it through horror, sports dramas, or socially conscious storytelling—and international audiences are taking notice.
These accolades don’t just validate the talent behind Deemak and Nayab; they also signal Pakistan’s growing influence as a cinematic force in the region, distinct from—but no longer overshadowed by—its neighbors. As Pakistani cinema continues to evolve, stories like these pave the way for global recognition.
Congratulations to the cast and crew of Deemak and Nayab. Here’s to more international wins and boundary-pushing storytelling from Pakistan!
