Karachi: The real promise of science fiction and fantasy (SFF) lies in its ability to absorb paradox. As an individual, this desire manifests itself in varying degrees. Everything everywhere at once has a time curve. The techno dystopia of Black Mirror. Then there are superhero movies from the Marvel and DC universes. While Batman has mechanical tricks and stealth life, Superman defies gravity in his rugged form.
The relationship between exploration and absurdity has never been sidelined in fiction, especially in SFF. Over the years, many have been surprised by Clark Kent’s lack of recognition from his peers due to his likability and performance in general. Or the elevator is always-empty for a last-minute change of clothes. Most importantly, Superman doesn’t need a head, but he does need Umro Aiyar’s armor.
As the story goes
Director Azfar Jafri Umro Aiyar – New Beginnings, Guns Abound. The legacy of the Aiyars, a powerful group of warriors dating back to the medieval Persian empire. Of course, the family fortune was held by Amar’s late father. Interest is a way for oppressed communities to feel about themselves.
Usman plays Amar, a college professor who teaches quantum physics during the day and pursues his scientific curiosity as a hobby. The 38-year-old actor, who was earlier seen in Chikkar, seems to be aiming to develop a close relationship with the new Pakistani filmmaker. Like Umro Aiyar, he stumbles in conversation and in battle, but there is an irresistible charm to his rudeness.
A staunch scientologist, his world turned upside down when his fate in the library turned him into an adrenaline-fueled fugitive with nocturnal demons and demons. Amar learns that, like his elderly father (Adnan Siddiqui), he is the Umro Aiyar of his time. Under the tutelage of the legendary Manzar Sehbai, the Guru, he must learn to use his superpowers to defeat the evil forces led by the funny and ruthless Lakka (Faran Tahir).
Sanam Said shines as a “knowing” Self with the ability to learn from other dimensions. As one of Amar’s greatest champions, Mane’s character is renewed, and he acts as a central figure without diminishing romantic interest. Sana Fakhar’s portrayal of the witch Cheno sends chills down the spine with a restrained yet effective performance.
Ali Kazmi looks great as Amar’s uncle Farhana, Simi Raheel, Daniyal Raheel as Babar and Salman Shaukat as Azam as the brave warrior Maaz. Hamza Ali Abbasi dons the cap of Idrees, guardian of Koh e Kaf, in a much awaited cameo.
A new beginning promises
Umro Aiyar brings a lot of good news. As a result, local cinema has reached a level where decent production design can be accepted. A good acting performance does not always lead to excessive praise. The cinematography does what it needs to, as does the sound design.
The cast of Jaffrey’s film isn’t in contention for the Academy anytime soon, but it seems Pakistani cinema has finally figured out how to keep a good show going without cutting cinema. The same goes for the VFX team, who managed to enter the world of Amar and Lakka with a sense of depth and horror. Smoke towers, bricks, and tunnel vision after tapping into Amar’s power to support the necessary subtlety.
However, Umro Aiyar’s biggest trump card is the script and short changes. Usman brings Amary to perfection, a character that has been written. While there are many molds to fit the transformation of an ordinary man into a formidable superhero, Usman fills the void. His comedic timing is excellent and often delivered with natural preparation. By the end of the film, his heroism is a work in progress – terminal fear and confusion.
Making it even more interesting is that the film flows like it knows where it is going – a rarity for a Pakistani film. The ending hints at a bigger battle that sets the stage for the sequel. The result is a fast-paced story that is rare, well-acted and relentless in its depiction of Lakka’s terror.
Down memory lane
The similarities between Umro Aiyar and the usual host of Hollywood superheroes are unfounded. From popular reception to critical acclaim, Jaffrey’s film gave Pakistani cinema its long-awaited superhero. In that case, Marvel and/or DC fans will find the Jaffrey movie interesting, but other than that, the parallels try too hard.
You don’t need supporters to cry at the limits of Martin Scorsese’s imagination, taking Marvel movies out of the box office. In fact, even mainstream superhero movie reviews are frankly boring and unnecessary, writing about one’s opinion.
Review: ‘Umro Ayyar’ spells a new beginning for Pakistani sci-fi and fantasy
