The growth of mainstream, commercial cinema in Pakistan has certainly not hindered the progress of independent, experimental film-making. While the found footage subgenre may be known to wider audiences through films like Paranormal Activity or Capturing the Friedmans, director Emraan Hussain has brought it to Pakistan with the country’s first-of-its-kind film, Aksbandh.
According to a press release issued on Saturday, the film is set to hit theatres across Pakistan on May 20. Aksbandh revolves around six friends who are making a found footage horror movie. In the process of an adventurous filming trip, they experience actual paranormal activity.
“The duration of the film is 90 minutes and we have shot it in a way that it gives a very realistic feel to it,” said Hussain. The director is hopeful that it will have an impact on audiences who come to cinemas to watch the film. “Aksbandh is Pakistan’s first found footage horror film of its kind.”
Co-produced by comedian-actor Ayaz Samoo who is also acting in the film, Aksbandh features a cast comprising Bilal Yousufzai, Danial Afzal Khan, Saud Imtiaz, Shehzeen Rahat, Mahrukh Rizvi and Arshad Ali. Screenwriting has been carried out by both Samoo and Hussain.
Aksbandh has been produced under the banner of Cinematic Media and Big Idea Entertainment.
