Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: July 30, 2024 | 
| 中文
(L to R) Sanam Saeed, Salman Shahid, Muhammad Shah, Fawad Khan and Arham Syed in Barzakh
Barzakh is brilliant! A conversation about the drama cannot commence without this baseline being established. The show has been conceived to perfection, marking one of those rare moments in this scribe's journey as a critic, where the review is being written to analyze the show's brilliance, rather than discuss its merits and demerits.
At the helm of Barzakh is Asim Abbasi, a name synonymous with innovation in Pakistani television. Previously famed for Churails, Abbasi brings his unique vision and exceptional direction to Barzakh, seamlessly blending fantasy-fiction, romance, family drama and a touch of horror and dark humor. His direction ensures that every scene is meticulously crafted, pulling the audience into a world where the lines between the living and the dead blur, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and wonder.
(R to L) Sanam Saeed, Salman Shahid and Muhammad Fawad Khan
The production quality of Barzakh is unparalleled. Shot primarily in the picturesque landscapes of Hunza, the drama leverages Pakistan's varied and stunning backdrops to elevate its storytelling. Hunza not only adds a visual richness, but also enhances the narrative's depth, making the story more immersive and impactful. This choice of location reflects a broader trend in Pakistani productions, recognizing that our country's diverse landscapes can profoundly influence how audiences perceive and connect with stories.
Barzakh boasts an ensemble cast that delivers extraordinary performances across the board. The legendary Salman Shahid leads as Jaffer Khanzada, delivering a portrayal that is both mesmerizing and deeply layered. Shahid's character is a fascinating blend of unhinged determination and sharp wit, making his quest to link the worlds of the living and the dead both compelling and believable.
Salman Shahid and Muhammad Fawad Khan
Fawad Khan and M Fawad Khan excel in their roles as Shehryar and Saifullah, respectively. Fawad Khan’s portrayal of Shehryar, a psychiatrist on antidepressants grappling with the loss of his wife, while raising his son, is both poignant and powerful. M Fawad Khan’s Saifullah, Jaffer’s scarred and complex first son, is equally compelling, capturing the nuances of a character navigating a fractured reality.
Sanam Saeed as Sheherzad is a revelation. Her enigmatic presence and nuanced performance keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, eager to unravel her motives and ultimate goals. Khushal Khan, portraying the young Jaffer, delivers a breakout performance, convincingly embodying the younger version of Salman Shahid’s character with striking authenticity and ambition.
Anika Zulfiqar and Khushal Khan in Barzakh
The writing in Barzakh is nothing short of exceptional. Asim Abbasi’s script is intricate, weaving a complex tale of human relationships and emotions. The dialogue is sharp, the character development is thorough, and the plot is refreshingly original. The story’s core revolves around Jaffer Khanzada’s audacious plan to unite the realms of the living and the dead, a premise that is both fantastical and deeply human.
The unravelling of human relationships on screen is handled with finesse. Each character’s actions and motivations are explored in depth, revealing the complexities of human nature. The interplay between characters, their emotional struggles, and their growth are portrayed with a level of sophistication rarely seen in television dramas.
Fawad and Sanam in a shot in Hunza
Barzakh’s visual storytelling is a feast for the eyes. The breathtaking landscapes of Hunza serve as more than just a backdrop, as they are integral to the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Each frame is thoughtfully composed, with attention to detail that invites viewers to become fully immersed in the world of Barzakh.
Emotionally, the drama strikes a chord with its audience. The themes of love, loss, and the quest for connection resonate deeply, making Barzakh a profoundly moving experience. The intrigue and suspense woven into the plot keep viewers engaged, ensuring that they remain glued to their screens from start to finish.
Muhammad Fawad Khan and Franco Giusti
Barzakh defies traditional genre boundaries, creating a fresh and innovative narrative that stands out in the crowded landscape of television dramas. By combining elements of fantasy-fiction, romance, family drama and horror, the show offers something unique for every viewer. This genre-blending approach not only keeps the audience intrigued but also opens up new possibilities for storytelling in Pakistani television.
Barzakh has achieved what every director and writer dreams of achieving: creating a drama that excites viewers and hooks them from the outset. Its success is a testament to the talent and creativity of its cast and crew. The fact that Barzakh is a Pakistani production that has garnered such widespread acclaim, signifies a monumental achievement for the industry.
(L to R) Muhammad Shah, Salman Shahid, Sanam Saeed and Syed Meesam Naqvi
The drama's existence, its high production values, and its ability to captivate audiences will undoubtedly cement its place as a significant piece of Pakistan’s drama history. Barzakh represents a new era of Pakistani storytelling, one that embraces innovation and pushes the boundaries of traditional television narratives.
In conclusion, Barzakh is a must-watch, even for skeptics. Its captivating storyline, exceptional performances, and stunning visuals, make it a standout production in the world of television drama. With episodes releasing on the Zee5 app and the Zee Zindagi YouTube Channel every Tuesday and Friday, there’s no reason to miss out on this extraordinary series.
Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed
Barzakh is not just a drama; it’s an experience that demands to be seen firsthand. The praise and critical acclaim that it is garnering, are well-deserved, and as the story unfolds, it promises to leave a lasting impact on its audience. Dive into the world of Barzakh, and discover why it is being hailed as a brilliant and groundbreaking piece of Pakistani television.
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