For the longest time, I’ve wondered why Pakistan hasn’t produced original content for OTT platforms. Across the border, even average content finds its way to major platforms like Netflix or Prime due to their massive audience. So, why is it so challenging for Pakistan to create work that can be sold on these platforms?
Watching the first episode of Barzakh intensified my curiosity. Written and directed by Asim Abbasi, known for Cake and Churails, and produced by Shailja Kejriwal, the show features Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, M Fawad Khan (yes, there are two Fawad Khans in Barzakh), Salman Shahid, Khushhal Khan, Sajid Hasan, Uzma Beg, and Nighat Choudhry. Considering that 80% of this high-quality production is Pakistani, I wonder when we’ll create more content for a global audience, not just for ourselves.
The story is set in the mountains, or the ‘Land of Nowhere,’ with stunning fall imagery from Hunza. The plot follows Jafar Khanzada (played by Salman Shahid), determined to marry for the third time—this time to the ghost of his first true love, Mehtab, who died 60 years ago.
Jafar invites his sons from his previous marriages—Shehryar (Fawad Khan), a widower with a nine-year-old son, and Saifullah (M Fawad Khan)—to join his celebration atop a mountain. It quickly becomes clear that both sons have their own issues. Sanam Saeed plays Scheherezade, the manager of Mahtab Mahal, a luxurious estate with a dubious past.
Without delving too much into the plot, it’s evident within minutes of the first episode that Abbasi’s storytelling transforms the picturesque Hunza Valley into a mysterious, otherworldly zone between life and the afterlife, which is essentially the meaning of “Barzakh.”
The beauty of Barzakh is not confined to a single element; it lies in the perfect casting, performances, storytelling, character development, direction, and set design. Despite these strong elements, the writing and direction stand out the most. Asim Abbasi deserves applause and should work more frequently—waiting years between his projects is too long.
Mo Azmi also deserves immense credit for the stunning cinematography, blending lighting, colors, and hues to perfection, making every frame visually captivating.
Saeed and Fawad Khan deliver compelling performances, as expected. M Fawad Khan matches his counterparts’ strength while portraying his emotional struggles. Salman Shahid’s role is unique and intriguing, and he executes it flawlessly. Sajid Hasan is a delightful surprise, compelling in his brief screen time. I’m eager to see more of him.
Besides her excellent acting, Saeed’s narration adds to the plot’s mystery and brings a theatrical charm to Barzakh.
The first episode is packed with information, and the upcoming episodes will unravel the mysteries and answer viewers’ questions. I, for one, can’t wait for Tuesday!
