The director shares the idea behind his first short, Khuwahish that highlights toxic elements in society
Islamabad-based actor, writer and producer Usama Naeem of UN Entertainment Group has been associated with theatre and music for the past few years. Some of his past works include the three-part Patari and Zeera Plus series, Dharti, and a campaign for SIUT that he worked on in collaboration with Jami Mehmood.
The most recent addition to the list is his new short Khuwahish that marks his directorial debut and is scheduled to screen in Islamabad in the coming days. Instep had a chance to watch the two and a half minutes long short exclusively, before the screening. Upon viewing, it must be acknowledged that Khuwahish is a brilliant effort.
Written and directed by Usama Naeem, who also stars in the short, Khuwahish is produced under UN Entertainment Group and features Sayyada Naina, and Moid Aslam Rajput – aside from Usama – in key roles.
Given that Khuwahish isn’t too long and is hasn’t had its official premiere, we would refrain from revealing much except that Usama essays an anti-hero of sorts while Sayyada co-stars against him. Her character is in an abusive relationship with him and no possibility of escape. Wait for more until the short film is made accessible to viewers!
For now, we must appreciate that the short has been shot really well and beautifully depicts the idea behind it without relying on words. The shots, the colour grading, the score is captivating while the actors have delivered remarkable performances, particularly Usama; he looks the part and has nailed the character effortlessly.
We got in touch with him to speak about Khuwahish and what paved the way for it. “I try to have a multi-layered plot as well as characters in my narratives and this is what I focused on in Khuwahish as well,” he told Instep in an exclusive conversation. “The three key characters in the short are a projection of the society; they personify major elements operating in our society. The female character represents desire – for money, love, etc. – her abuser reflects power, control and manipulation while the ‘other guy’ signifies emotions.”
“I envisioned the idea and decided to work around it as I feel ethics are shrinking these days,” he added. “I look forward to how people differently react to the same things happening around them, based on their perceptions and experiences.
I had written the script for a telefilm but before releasing that, I decided to make a shorter version of it to see how it goes. I feel it’s a smart way of conveying the idea to the viewer and get their feedback.”
Usama also informed that after the screening in Islamabad, he plans to send Khuwahish to some competitions with an aim for a digital release in the coming months.
He is of the view that with the growing number of smart phone users with each passing day, it is essential to make the project accessible to as many people as possible so that the message reaches a wider audience.
