The Guardian has bestowed the title of “best films of 2023 so far” upon Saim Sadiq’s groundbreaking film, Joyland, and Nimra Bucha’s Polite Society. Despite facing bans and domestic censorship, Joyland, featuring Ali Junejo and Alina Khan, continues to create ripples on the global stage even a year after its release.
Joyland and its achievements
The film has achieved remarkable milestones, including Pakistan’s first-ever Cannes award in the Un Certain Regard category and being shortlisted for the 2023 Oscars. The Guardian aptly described Joyland as a “subtle trans drama from Pakistan that explores the unsettled social and sexual identities of a widower and his children with delicacy and tenderness.”
This recognition highlights the film’s ability to navigate sensitive subjects with grace, shedding light on the complex realities of social and sexual identities within Pakistani society. By acknowledging Joyland and Polite Society as the best films of the year, The Guardian brings attention to the remarkable talent and creativity emerging from Pakistan’s film industry.
Also read: PPP’s Famous “Dila Teer Bijja” Becomes A Hit At A Club In India, Video Goes Viral
These films serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and cinema’s ability to challenge societal norms while evoking empathy and understanding.
Have anything to add to the story? Let us know in the comments section below!