In a bold move to ensure their film reaches its intended audience, filmmaker Zarrar Kahn and producer Anam Abbas are gearing up to self-distribute their highly-anticipated production “IN FLAMES” in Karachi. The film, tailored for Karachi audiences, has faced challenges in securing traditional distribution partnerships, prompting the creators to take matters into their own hands.
Typically, films collaborate with distribution companies for a wide release, but despite exhaustive efforts, no Pakistani distributor was willing to take a chance on this venture. Consequently, the duo is venturing into self-distribution, leveraging their expertise and passion for the city.
The Censor Board has given the film a green light and The team is eager to ensure the film reaches the right audience – film students, activists, cinephiles, and those seeking a thrilling experience.
The creators have announced that “IN FLAMES” will be showcased at Atrium Cinemas in Karachi from October 20th to October 31st. They invite the community to participate and engage with the film during this window. Furthermore, they are actively seeking partnerships with various communities, emphasizing their desire for organic, grassroots engagement to maximize the film’s reach. They urge interested parties to reach out for community bookings and join them in spreading the word and amplifying the film’s message.
International Recognition
Upon reflecting on its journey, it is imperative to acknowledge that “In Flames” has already garnered international acclaim. It stood as a trailblazer, being the inaugural Pakistani project chosen for the prestigious Berlinale Talent Project Market and gaining prominence at the Frontières Buyers Showcase during Marche du Cannes. Additionally, Kahn’s directorial debut shone brightly on the global stage, having secured the MPA-AFA First Prize Pitch Award at the Busan Film Festival. These acknowledgments affirmed the film’s exceptional narrative and marked it as a standout within the international film community, further bolstering Pakistan’s burgeoning influence in the global cinematic landscape.
The journey continued with its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2023, paving the way for subsequent premieres at film festivals in Toronto. Pakistani cinema continued its impressive stride on the international stage as “In Flames” recently clinched the prestigious award for Best Feature at the International South Asian Film Festival Canada (ISAFF Canada). Renowned Indian filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, celebrated for his discerning cinematic taste, had previously commended “In Flames,” describing it as more than a moody horror film. He lauded the film for its profound exploration of societal issues, laying them bare for audiences and leaving a lasting impact.
The Plot
“In Flames” presents the struggles of Mariam, a Karachi medical student dealing with personal loss while supporting her grieving family. An estranged uncle reenters their lives, raising suspicions about his intentions. Asad, a fellow student from Canada, offers romance and security but also poses dangers. A motorcycle accident leaves Mariam vulnerable, and she senses a mysterious presence stalking her through the city’s streets. The film explores themes of trauma, internalized abuse, and misogyny in fundamentalist cultures, drawing inspiration from Guillermo del Toro’s empathetic ghost stories. In his directorial debut, Zarrar Kahn tells the story of women navigating an oppressive and patriarchal society marked by random violence.
The film features Rameesha Nawal, Bakhtawar Mazhar, Adnan Shah Tipu, and Omair Javaid.
