Banned Pakistani film, Javed Iqbal: The Untold Story Of A Serial Killer, will receive its world premiere at the Opening Gala at the 24th UK Asian Film Festival. The movie will now see the light of day as the opening film of 2022.
The film was banned in Pakistan a few days before its release. The film depicts the untold story of Lahore’s notorious serial killer, Javed Iqbal. As he confessed to police and media that he had abducted, sexually abused and murdered more than 100 boys in Lahore between 1998 and 1999.
He was arrested and sentenced to death. But just two years into his sentence, he allegedly committed suicide in his prison cell. The authorities suspected his horrific crimes were part of a broader paedophile ring.
Inspired by writer and director Abu Aleeha’s novel, ‘Kukri’, the film provides a detailed analysis of Iqbal’s statements and his time in police remand. Without sensationalising the subject matter, the film delves into the psyche and character of Iqbal. At the same time depicting the seriousness and sensitivity of Lahore police during the investigation.
24th, UK Asian Film Festival
The theme of this year’s festival is “Dare To Dream”, which commemorates 75 years of India and Pakistan’s Independence. The curation will acknowledge personal and societal freedoms. At the same time, addressing topical issues such as climate change and human resilience in the face of oppression. The festival format will include screenings, premieres, live events and industry panel discussions.
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UK Asian Film Festival Founder and Director Dr Pushpinder Chowdhry MBE say, “We are looking forward to opening UKAFF 2022 with Javed Iqbal, a film that digs deep into the psyche of a serial killer and that highlights the importance of mental well-being. Abu Aleeha’s directorial tells a compelling, real-life horror story of a psychopath captured by a woman police officer, sensitively played by Ayesha Omar.
The importance of this film cannot be underestimated. It brings to light an issue. The abuse and mass murder of young boys as it is of the utmost importance and yet rarely discussed. It has always been far too convenient for South Asian societies to brush such issues under the carpet, but only by creating safe spaces to confront these issues and their root causes can we begin to create the meaningful social change we need. In that way, we all owe a debt of gratitude to the creators of this film.”
Yasir Hussain’s Statement
The lead actor of the film Yasir Hussain who played the role of the serial killer also shared the news on his social media, stating,
“It is a very proud moment for us that UK Asian Film Festival is giving our movie so much respect. However, it is unfortunate that we always fail to acknowledge our content and people.”
“This Pakistani story might have been banned in Pakistan, but make sure to feature five cultural films on Eid.”
UK Asian Film Festival 2022 will run from 4th – 15th May in venues across London, Birmingham, Leicester, Coventry, Warwick, Bradford, Stockton and Glasgow; and online via FI Player and Modern Films.
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