Written by: Hurmat Majid
Posted on: January 22, 2024 | 
| 中文
Ahmed Randhawa, Saba Qamar and Fahad Hashmi as police officers in Serial Killer
Green Entertainment continues to push the boundaries of conventional Pakistani dramas with its latest offering, Serial Killer. This gripping thriller, directed by Fahd Nur and penned by the prolific Umera Ahmed, stands out as a refreshing break from the ubiquitous family dramas that dominate television screens. As the drama unfolds, it becomes apparent that Serial Killer is not just a crime drama but a meticulously crafted exploration of crime, investigation and societal transitions.
The story kicks off with a chilling murder, setting the tone for the series. A mysterious woman, concealed in a niqab, drags a Delsey suitcase into an apartment building, sparking curiosity among the viewers. This enigmatic red suitcase becomes a recurring motif, appearing again at a bus terminal and leading to the discovery of a woman's body in it. The narrative is deftly woven, and the intrigue is palpable from the first episode.
A mysterious murder scene in the drama
At the center of the storm is Superintendent Sarah Sikander, portrayed with finesse by the talented Saba Qamar. Returning to Pakistan after a stint as a Fulbright Scholar in the United States, Sarah assumes the role of a no-nonsense police officer in the Special Branch. Qamar's portrayal of Superintendent of Police (SP), Sarah, is commendable, bringing depth and authenticity to a character that could have easily become clichéd in less capable hands. However, one complaint we continue to have for Saba Qamar is that she fails to shed the persona of a larger-than-life superstar on screen, for she has continued to look picture-perfect in every scene. We wish for her to shed her off-screen identity and roughen up a little for roles like these, so that her acting shines through even more. That said, what saves Saba, always, are her expressions and the way she is able to breathe life into various characters.
An ode to Saba aside, the real star of this show is Faiza Gillani, who as Babra, is the perfect enigmatic, shady yet glamorous makeup artist, who has finally made her mark after many years. We know there is something dubious about the character she is playing, and it is obvious that she is anything but straight.
Faiza Gillani and Sabeena Farooq in Serial Killer
Coming to a couple of weaknesses in the drama: they are not able to catch the rickshaw driver who has brought all the women to the police station many times. It seems that he has managed to hide in plain sight. There are other glitches in the story, but it is still an enjoyable watch.
What sets Serial Killer apart is its commitment to authenticity in police procedures and forensic investigations. SP Sarah, meticulous and relentless, embodies an almost idealized version of a police officer, neither too green nor too jaded. The drama deftly explores the challenges she faces in a department entrenched in stereotypes and tropes, emphasizing the importance of evidence over conjecture.
Ahmed Randhawa, Saba Qamar and Fahad Hashmi
Umera Ahmed's writing shines in her ability to introduce compelling secondary characters. The rickshaw driver and Imaan, a trans woman, add layers to the narrative. The drama cleverly plays with the viewer's inner detective, planting clues and red herrings that keep the suspense alive.
The first few episodes unfold a multifaceted plot that goes beyond the murder mystery, delving into the lives of characters adapting to a society in transition. The drama navigates through societal norms, shedding light on issues like gender identity and social media stardom. It is a commendable departure from the predictable family politics often portrayed in Pakistani dramas.
Saba Qamar as a police officer
Fahd Nur's direction deserves applause for seamlessly blending elements of suspense, drama and societal commentary. The cinematography captures Lahore's essence, adding a layer of authenticity to the storytelling. The pacing is swift, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, while allowing the narrative to breathe and the characters to evolve.
The ensemble cast, including Alee Hassan Shah, Sabeena Farooq, Amina Malick and Faiza Gilani, complement Saba Qamar's stellar performance. Each actor brings depth to their characters, contributing to the overall immersive experience.
Saba Qamar's birthday scene in the drama
Serial Killer is a testament to Green Entertainment's commitment to delivering fresh narratives to Pakistani audiences. The drama signals a shift towards more diverse genres on television, and the audience’s response to the first episode is a testament to its success. The overall cinematic feel, combined with the exploration of crime and societal nuances, has resonated well with fans eagerly anticipating each episode.
In conclusion, Serial Killer is a triumph for Green Entertainment, Fahd Nur and Umera Ahmed. It is a masterful blend of suspense, crime and societal commentary, offering viewers a riveting escape from the predictable tropes of Pakistani dramas. As the plot thickens, Serial Killer stands as a beacon of innovation in the television landscape, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting the next revelation in this enthralling journey into the world of crime and mystery.
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