Instant Carma

OTT platforms and streaming services have created a revolution of sorts, even in Pakistan. But a full-length film to be screened in cinemas still hasn’t lost its charm. The latest in that regard is a movie produced and directed by Kashan Admani, whose teaser has caught everyone’s eye, and is called Carma. Against the backdrop of the city of lights, Karachi, its story — according to its makers — moves away from the usual rom-com mode and “follows the path set by the iconic Hollywood director Quentin Tarantino”. That’s a huge claim. If Carma achieves even half of what Quentin T’s films have, it’ll be a great accomplishment… almost an act of karma.

Treatment and Justice

When news of murder accused Zahir Jaffer getting preferential treatment in jail broke, it was received with dismay and anger by social media users. Justifiably so. Actress and VJ Anoushey Ashraf did not waste time in reminding the authorities concerned that “every time Zahir Jaffer asks for hospitals, bail and nice ironed shirts to wear to his trials, I hope the people deciding his fate remember, see and shudder when they think of Noor’s angelic face,” referring to Noor Mukaddam, the young woman killed in the most horrific way. “I hope they can’t sleep knowing she’s waiting on them to deliver justice.” You’re right, Anoushey A. Not only must justice be done; it must also be seen to be done.

Bomb Scare

On August 6, Mumbai Police’s control room got an anonymous phone call claiming that bombs had been placed at three railway stations (Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Byculla and Dadar) in the city, and at the bungalow of actor Amitabh Bachchan. The police reacted promptly by sending bomb disposal squads to the mentioned spots. They also strengthened security around the stations, and around Mr Bachchan’s house. Fortunately, no bomb was found at any of the places. What are the odds that the call was made by a film industry insider?

Turkish Delight

If you think only Pakistanis watch Turkish drama serials with a great deal of fondness, you’re mistaken. Indian film star Swara Bhasker is also a fan. No, not of Dirilis: Ertugrul, but of another series titled Muhtesem Yuzyil. Taking to Twitter she exclaimed, “Discovered Muhtesem Yuzyil/ Magnificent Century, Turkish series on Ottoman emperor Sulaiman the Magnificent and consort Hurrem Sultana…

I’m 10 years too late to this party, but I’m hooked.” Well, Swara B, better late than never to be introduced to Mera Sultan.

Daniel’s Pick

Daniel Radcliffe is now too grown up to play Harry Potter’s character if a newer version of the film is made. He’s 32. And yet, he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of working in a reboot movie in a different role. In fact, in one of the two different roles that are his favourites from the franchise. They are: Remus Lupin (originally played by David Thewlis) and Sirius Black (Gary Oldman). Hmmm… Since both characters become father figures to Harry Potter after his parents’ death, we suggest Daniel R should look for a new part, such as the ghost of his father… or mother.

Jen’s Jab We Met

Refuse to get jabs to protect yourself from Covid-19 or doubt the presence of the lethal disease, and risk losing Jennifer Anniston’s friendship. Giving an interview to a magazine, the Hollywood A-lister has said that, nowadays, her circle of friends is smaller because she’s “cut out individuals who chose not to get vaccinated for coronavirus… I’ve just lost a few people in my weekly routine who have refused or did not disclose if they had been vaccinated, and it was unfortunate.” Good going, Jen A. Keep needling them until they understand the importance of getting jabbed.

Published in Dawn, ICON, August 15th, 2021