Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning is Pakistan’s first superhero movie hitting cinema screens on Eid Al Adha with a global release. Directed by Azfar Jafri and starring Usman Mukhtar, Faran Tahir, Sanam Saeed, and Ali Kazmi, the film has garnered a rating of 4.5 stars. It is based on the classical Persian epic of Umro Ayyar, a legendary trickster who fought alongside Amir Hamza against sorcerers, jinns, demons, and false deities. The story originated as oral folklore and gained popularity in India during the Mughal era before being written down in Urdu.
One of the film’s greatest achievements is its ability to present Indo-Islamic heritage through a modern cinematic lens, similar to Hollywood superhero films. It portrays the eternal battle between good and evil through the perspective of the ayyars, special individuals with powers dedicated to restoring balance and justice in the world. On the other side, the forces of evil, led by the sorcerer Laqqa and sorceress Cheno, rely on dark magic to spread violence and injustice. The film’s framing of this ancient legend brings a new perspective to the classic tale.
The stellar cast of Umro Ayyar includes Usman Mukhtar as Amar, a quantum physics professor turned superhero heir to Umro Ayyar, and Sanam Saeed as Meena, a ‘knower’ with access to other dimensions. Mukhtar’s portrayal of Amar’s transformation and Sehbai’s role as Guru guide the audience through an engaging narrative. The antagonist Laqqa, played by Faran Tahir, delivers a captivating performance that balances terror with humor. Sana Fakhar’s portrayal of sorceress Cheno and Ali Kazmi’s role as Maaz contribute to the film’s captivating performances.
The strong script by Atif Siddique, combined with Azfar Jafri’s direction and stunning visual effects, bring the fantasy adventure of Umro Ayyar to life on the big screen. The film’s depiction of female lead Meena as a champion without a romantic interest in the male lead is a refreshing change in the superhero genre. Additionally, supporting performances by Adnan Siddiqi, Simi Raheel, Daniyal Raheel, and Salman Shaukat, as well as a special appearance by Hamza Ali Abbasi, add depth to the film’s narrative.
In conclusion, Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning offers a fresh take on a classic tale through its engaging storyline, stellar performances, and high production value. The film’s ability to blend ancient folklore with modern cinematic techniques makes it a must-watch for audiences of all ages. With a diverse cast and a compelling narrative, Umro Ayyar sets a new standard for Pakistani cinema and promises an unforgettable movie experience for viewers worldwide.
