In recent years, OTT (Over-the-top media) platforms have forged a new path in the local drama industry, offering an alternative - in terms of production quality and stories - to the traditional soaps on our television screens. Many shows on OTT platforms, such as Zee5 or Netflix, however, are not necessarily made for collective viewing with the family. The Indian drama industry, however, has embraced this shift, with Netflix and Amazon Prime producing a number of acclaimed 'Originals' in India.
The Pakistani drama industry has earned praise at home and abroad - primarily in neighbouring India - on free-to-access digital platforms such as YouTube, but it has struggled to carve out a niche on OTT platforms. Thanks to Zee5 (which previously helped create Churails), we now have Barzakh. The show was written and directed by Asim Abbasi, previously known for his unconventional and critically acclaimed works such as "Cake" and "Churails". With Barzakh, Abbasi has allowed himself to be even more experimental while weaving a complex tale of human relationships and emotions. There are, however, moments in the series that compel you to call the director and ask him to elucidate the meaning behind a particular shot or a scene. It may be argued that if the creator has to explain the meaning behind his work, it ends up undermining the art itself. Others may argue that not everything has to be understood - some things are just meant to be experienced.
Barzakh is not your typical drama, even by OTT standards. It is a complex tapestry that defies easy categorisation, blending supernatural elements with themes of lost love, revenge, failed marriages, father-son relationships, depression, grief, and identity crises. With so many themes intertwined, it demands the audience's full attention and is not something you can watch casually. Abbasi's work is a maze that must be experienced with patience.
The series is beautifully shot against the stunning backdrop of Hunza, making it a visual feast and contributing to an otherworldly experience. The aesthetics keep you hooked even when the story's thematic substance becomes overwhelming. The background score perfectly complements the visuals, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The cinematography by Mo Azmi, one of the greatest in the field, is spellbinding. Every frame is a work of art, with sequences like the mushrooms scene and the dance-off between Saifullah and Jafar showcasing Azmi's mastery.
Often, aesthetically pleasing series or movies fall short on acting, but Barzakh also excels here. Veteran actor Salman Shahid delivers an award-worthy performance as Jafar Khanzada, embodying the stubbornness, audacity, and toxicity of a traditional South Asian patriarch with remarkable authenticity.
Sanam Saeed, playing Jafar's enigmatic attendant Scheherezade, brings a mysterious allure to her character. As the chief narrator, her beautiful, enigmatic accent and crisp Urdu add a lyrical quality to the storytelling. M. Fawad Khan, an accomplished theatre actor, portrays Jafar's lost and confused elder son, Saifullah. Even though he has few dialogues, he relies on his expressions, pauses, and body language to convey his character's inner turmoil.
The inclusion of a homosexual character has sparked tremendous controversy around the show, but it was expected, and the creators must have anticipated this backlash from Pakistani viewers
Then comes Fawad Khan, playing the younger son, Sheheryar. In the series, he is Jafar's from another marriage. Fawad delivers a grounded and believable performance, portraying an extra-cautious father, a tormented widower, and a disgruntled son all at once. He even put on slight weight to achieve the "dad bod" look for authenticity.
The young actor playing Sheheryar's son is perhaps the only weak link among the otherwise stellar cast. While not terrible, another child actor might have done better. The rest of the cast delivers strong performances, including the veteran Sajid Hassan as the patriarch's brother and nemesis. Khushhal Khan's cameo as young Jafar is also quite impactful and moving.
As for critique, the show can feel quite self-indulgent, which I personally enjoy but might not appeal to everyone. The use of difficult Urdu with long monologues seems unnecessary at times, and the use of English could have also been toned down without losing any impact. The inclusion of a homosexual character has sparked tremendous controversy around the show (even forcing Zee5 to pull the show from distribution in Pakistan on YouTube), but it was expected, and the creators must have anticipated this backlash from Pakistani viewers.
Overall, Barzakh is a groundbreaking addition to the entry for Pakistani dramas in the OTT space, offering a fresh, multifaceted narrative supported by stellar performances and breathtaking visuals. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate complex storytelling and high production values.