In a significant achievement for Pakistani filmmakers, Shehrezad Maher’s short film The Curfew will premiere at the Venice Biennale on September 4, marking Pakistan’s sole entry at the festival this year.
The Venice Biennale is among the world’s most prestigious film festivals, running alongside Cannes and Berlin as part of the “big three.” It is known for spotlighting groundbreaking works from across the globe. Pakistan has previously made its mark at the festival, most notably when Saim Sadiq’s Darling clinched the Best Short Film Award in 2019.
Maher’s 19-minute film brings together a cast including Sathya Sridharan, Balinder Johal, Sara Haider, Rajesh Bose, Chris Thorn, and Salwa Khan.
At its heart, The Curfew explores the delicate relationship between Ayaan and his grandmother, whom he cares for temporarily. Their struggle to overcome a language barrier reflects deeper questions about silence, memory, and the remnants of colonial history.
Critics note that the film’s focus on personal yet universally resonant themes highlights how Pakistani filmmakers are increasingly engaging with identity and social transformation. Maher’s selection also adds momentum to the growing recognition of South Asian cinema on the world stage.
The Venice premiere could open doors for the film to travel to other global festivals, amplifying Pakistani voices in international storytelling.