Wakhri (film)

Wakhri is a Pakistani film directed by Iram Parveen Bilal who co-produced it as well, and starring Faryal Mehmood in her debut film lead as a widowed school teacher who gets viral on social media. The film is inspired by the late social media celebrity Qandeel Baloch, who was murdered in 2016. The film had its world premiere in Red Sea International Film Festival in December 2023. It was later theatrically released on 5 January 2024 nationwide.

Cast

 * Faryal Mehmood
 * Saleem Mairaj
 * Bakhtawar Mazhar
 * Sohail Sameer
 * Akbar Islam
 * Shees Sajjad Gul
 * Tooba Siddiqui

Production
In December 2022, it reported that Pakistani-USA director Iram Parveen Bilal has wrapped the principal photography of her upcoming film which is inspired by Qandeel Baloch. Faryal Mehmood was selected to portray the title character who was finalised after giving an audition and it took over two months to confirm her. While talking about her casting, Bilal stated about her social media trolling, which is also severely faced by the protagonist in the film. Mehmood dedicates the film to her ex-husband Daniyal Raheal. The film was edited by Aarti Bajaj and the production was designed by Kanwal Khoosat.

The film's trailer was released on 7 November 2023. The film was debuted on Red Sea International Film Festival in December 2023. On 4 December 2023, the film was cleared by Central Board of Film Censors for a nationwide release. The film was distributed by Mandiviwalla Entertainment, and released on 5 January 2024 in Pakistan.

Critical reception
In a review by Trending In Social, Bilal's directorial brilliance was praised by the author who wrote, "Credit for the film’s success also goes to director Iram Parveen Bilal, who skillfully navigates the blend of masala-style and art-house elements. Bilal’s direction brings out the activist streak in the second half, adding layers to the narrative and elevating the film beyond conventional storytelling."

Sara Danial of Dawn Images heavily praised the Mehmood's performance and wrote, "Mehmood’s portrayal of Noor is nothing short of brilliance, seamlessly encapsulating the nuances of her character, resonating with authenticity and depth."