Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: June 07, 2023 | | 中文
Haroon Kadwani, a budding actor who has a long way to go before achieving star status, is the leading man in the enthralling drama Jhoom, a creation brought to life by the masterful pen of Hashim Nadeem and the directorial finesse of Ali Faizan. In this intense love story, Kadwani takes on the role of Aryaan, an anguished young man, while the talented Zara Noor Abbas is playing the character of Dr. Maryam, the enchanting leading lady. With an unconventional age difference adding depth to their connection, Jhoom dares to explore the intricacies of love while challenging social norms.
The first episode of Jhoom brought a blend of praise and criticism, it undeniably left an indelible mark on viewers. Among the varied opinions, Haroon Kadwani's acting skills received both applause and reproach. Though his performance displays commendable growth from his previous endeavors, there remains room for refinement in his dialogue delivery. Conversely, the Original Soundtrack (OST), aptly titled Zindagi Awargi Hai, captivated audiences and swiftly garnered millions of views within a mere twenty-four hours.
The show airs every Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm on Geo TV, unfolding a tapestry of seamlessly enthralling storytelling. The drama has managed to secure a place among the current top 10 Pakistani dramas. Against the backdrop of stunning cinematography and meticulous framing, the production quality of Jhoom stands tall, showcasing a commitment to excellence. However, at times, the allure of these visual elements, intensified by peculiar color grading choices, overpower the story, evoking a sense of cinematic dissonance. Often one is too mesmerized by the picture being painted in front of them to remember to pay attention to the dialogue and acting. But in hindsight, that may be intentional.
Within the depths of this compelling narrative lies a tale of forbidden love, where Aryaan a mechanical engineer with rage issues, and Dr. Maryam, a woman who was once hurt while deeply in love. The drama shows us how the two courageously navigate the turbulent seas of societal pressures and familial conflicts. The drama dares to defy the societal taboo of pairing an older woman with a younger man, aiming to dismantle the walls built by narrow-minded conventions. As the story unfolds, viewers are drawn into a world where age becomes a mere backdrop to the resilient power of love, shattering the constraints of marital stereotypes.
The ensemble cast of Jhoom brings vitality to the characters they portray. Zara Noor Abbas shines brilliantly as Dr. Maryam, flawlessly capturing the essence of her character's profession and emotional journey. Additionally, Noreen Gulwani's stellar performance continues to impress, leaving audiences longing to witness her talent in a leading role. Reham Rafiq, a promising discovery, possesses the potential to expand her horizons beyond the confines of a stereotypical "hip friend" role, exploring the vast spectrum of diverse characters.
The return of Usman Peerzada to the screen is a refreshing delight, reminding viewers of his undeniable prowess as an actor. However, the drama falters in its portrayal of the friends of Dr. Maryam’s brother (played by Haris Waheed), casting a shadow over an otherwise stellar cast. Their performances fail to resonate with the depth and nuance required, leaving viewers yearning for a more thoughtful selection. Regrettably, the dubbing of Jhoom disrupts the immersive experience, veering into unsettling territory that detracts from its otherwise engaging narrative.
Up till now Jhoom has succeeded in weaving a fresh and an engaging storyline, but how long will the audience’s interest last as Sherry (Maryam’s brother) continues to toy with Aryaan, based on a childish personal vendetta that is fueled more and more by his waster friends. It is good that the audiences were made aware of the fact that both characters have troubled pasts, making sense to the way the two choose to act in different situations.
In conclusion, Jhoom offers viewers an exciting journey through the labyrinthine corridors of love, exploring themes of passion, heartbreak, patience and societal pressures. While the drama exhibits notable production quality, the directorial execution is mediocre.
We would still recommend the drama to audiences, but also caution them to take it with a pinch of salt, as it is not very realistic and at times even absurd.
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