Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: May 19, 2023 | 
| 中文
Sadia Khan and Mikaal Zulfiqar in Huey Tum Ajnabi
Like a complex tapestry, woven with good intention and ambition than actual craftsmanship, Huey Tum Ajnabi unfolds before our eyes, seeking to delve deep into the vivid hues and intricate patterns of the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Directed by journalist-turned-filmmaker Kamran Shahid, this cinematic endeavor aims to thread together a unique perspective on this chapter in subcontinental history.
Huey Tum Ajnabi is a poignant film set during the Indo-Pak War of 1971 and the consequential fall of Dhaka. At its core, the movie revolves around the love story of Nizam (Mikaal Zulfiqar) and Zeenat (Sadia Khan), who are confronted with the arduous task of reconciling their deep affection for each other with their unwavering loyalty to their homelands. Against the backdrop of war and political unrest, the film intricately explores the complexities and dilemmas that arise in their relationship. It paints a vivid picture of the emotional struggles, sacrifices and profound choices that individuals face during times of conflict and uncertainty.
Mikaal Zulfiqar in the film
Within the seemingly rich but actually poorly woven fabric of Huey Tum Ajnabi, a talented ensemble cast breathes life into the tapetry's characters. Mikaal Zulfiqar, Sadia Khan, Ayesha Omar, Samina Peerzada, Shamoon Abbasi, Sohail Ahmed and Mehmood Aslam skillfully navigate the narrative, their performances are one of the few saving graces of a film that has too many problems for one to simply ignore.
Sohail Ahmed as a transgender
That said, what the story lacks in depth and connection, the cinema work and Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) make up for. Each frame is a brushstroke on the canvas of Pakistani cinema, capturing the evolving landscape with unparalleled beauty and precision. From delicate miniature paintings to awe-inspiring sequences of marine ships and jet planes, and the captivating interactions between Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the visual tapestry of Huey Tum Ajnabi is a sight to behold, captivating the senses and immersing the viewer in its arresting imagery.
A scene from the film
Yet, as with any intricate tapestry, there are moments when the threads of historical accuracy and narrative cohesion threaten to unravel. The film grapples with the delicate balance between a sweeping romantic narrative and the weighty historical events it seeks to portray. At times, the stitching feels strained, as if two distinct fabrics were hastily stitched together, detracting from the overall unity of the story. Within the intricate tapestry of Huey Tum Ajnabi, the motives behind the Bangladeshi liberation movement are hardly addressed or discussed with any seriousness. The hues lack the necessary depth and shading, leaving us yearning for a more vivid portrayal. Unfortunately, the excessive use of violence and negative stereotypes associated with the Bangladeshi characters destroys the integrity of the film, raising questions about the fairness of its historical representation.
Shamoon Abbasi as a Mukti Bahini commander in the film
As the story unfolds further, the depiction of casualties and battles on the Pakistani side is shown in an idealized form, far removed from the harsh realities of war. By doing so, the film becomes historically inauthentic.
And then, amidst the vibrant threads of history, a tender love story finds its place within the tapestry of Huey Tum Ajnabi. While it adds a touch of allure, this thread alone cannot mend the flaws that tarnish the overall composition. Nevertheless, the honest depiction of intimacy between the lead protagonists offers a glimmer of authenticity, weaving a strand of realism into the intricate fabric of Pakistani cinema.
Samina Peerzada in the film
Like a symphony echoing through the halls of time, the music in Huey Tum Ajnabi reverberates with emotive resonance. The harmonious melodies, sung by luminaries such as Abida Parveen, Baqir Abbas, Sahir Ali Bagga, and Naveed Nashad, provide an auditory backdrop that elevates the film’s emotional depth, enveloping the audience in a melodic embrace.
So, in conclusion, while Huey Tum Ajnabi has some commendable performances and visually stunning cinematography, it falls short of achieving a seamless and harmonious composition of a well-made film. The historical inaccuracy and the partisan portrayal of the Bangladeshi liberation movement weakens the film’s integrity. Furthermore, the idealized strokes of casualties and battles on the Pakistani side wash away its harsh realities. Though the love story adds a glimmer of charm, it fails to mend the film’s flaws. The music is superb and resonates with the soul, but the film Huey Tum Ajnabi, gets a modest rating of 2 out of 5, because it lacks cohesion and depth.
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