Manto A Tale Of Classic Cinema

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The man himself Sarmad Sultan Khoosat does not require any introduction. He started his career way back from comedy, romance, social issues and now biopic he proved his versatility with par excellence.  Honestly, I never like the whole idea of capturing someone life’s in a frame. Sarmad without losing the essence showed us how to exhibit classic cinema without being tagged offbeat or commercial cinema.

This is the story of famous short story teller Saadat Hasan Manto, known for his conspicuous statements and controversial writing. The plot revolves around manto when he was released from Punjab Mental Hospital in 1951. Recent partition damaged Manto’s tolerating level and continues struggle with inner self and obligation's from society leads great mental suffer. 

While he was still juggling with his trauma and family. Unconventional  stories which depict taboo in a dignified manner grabbed  his attention. While in this states his addiction for alcohol ruined so many things. Manto’s relationship with his woman and children and the way his alcoholism damaged his relationships.

Well defined intriguing first half to well tamed second half. Manto had edgy relationship with his wife and children. Sania Saeed played manto's wife Safia, her character revolves around the support for her family, her responsibilities, and children. 
Further encounters with individuals from different backgrounds of life.  His serenity bond with famous singer Madam Noor Jahan. This tale depicts every inch of his trauma.

Yay:

From authentic sets, perfect lighting, amazing appearances and oodles of cameos. Manto shows us the real cinema with extraordinary efforts. Mahira Khan with peerless appearance scorched the screen. Saba Qamar brings the vintage glamor in her cameo but somehow I felt she tried way too hard. Sarmad chemistry with Nimra Bucha is something looking for, in some scenes they both were incomparable. Every cameo is well executed, placement is spot on. Kudos Sarmad he surely knows how to play with his strength and weakness.

Nay:

Brownie points for Sarmad Khoosat, It’s hard to find a glitch in this masterpiece. truly well structured and skillful production. I expected more detailing on manto's wife and how they transformed the bond between them. 

Verdict:

Sarmmad Khoosat shines like a bright diamond star, Power packed performance indeed. Sania Saeed is effortlessly best. Pakistan industry is in emerging phase finally a relief from Gujjars, armature actions, and loud item numbers. We need more classic cinema like Manto to regain our stardom.