US TALK

Abdullah Abid Malik is the ultimate triple threat in the entertainment scene. He’s not just a rising star in front of the camera; he’s also making serious waves behind it, having worked as an assistant and associate director on major projects like Habs, Noor Jahan, Achari Mohabbat, Jaisay Aapki Marzi, Main Manto Nahi Hoon, and Love Guru.

Abdullah’s credentials are rock-solid. A high-achieving alumnus of the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) – from where he graduated with a 3.5 GPA – his record is packed with accomplishments. His mainstream acting career took a significant turn when ISPR brought him into the spotlight with a phenomenal role in Sinf-e-Aahan. He has since gained further recognition for his performance as Ali in Kuch Ankahi.

Currently repped by Six Sigma Plus – the production house founded by industry legend Humayun Saeed – Abdullah aims to make a lasting impact. But his skills go beyond acting and directing. Abdullah is a natural leader and a champion! He earned a shield for winning a British Parliament-based debate on social media influence; showcased his talent in the NUST theatre play Zahir-o-Batin; and even snagged multiple gold medals in sports at the university. On the leadership front, he shone as the Director of Incoming Global Volunteers at AIESEC Islamabad, where he successfully handled international internships.

Keep your eyes peeled, because his impressive journey is about to get even bigger: Abdullah is super excited to start shooting for the highly-anticipated sequel of Jawani Phir Nahi Ani in just a few months, and his journey is going to be straight-up iconic!

Us: How did it feel to choose filmmaking over a more stable career path?

Abdullah Abid Malik: Honestly, it was a leap of faith! I was pretty good at science, math, and English, so I could’ve gone for a straight-up corporate gig or even the armed forces. But I chased my dreams and jumped into the industry without any connections. It’s been a wild ride, but I can say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Us: What was it like making your acting debut in Sinf-e-Aahan?

AAM: Talk about pressure! I was a complete rookie, surrounded by superstars like Sajal Aly, Kubra Khan, and Yumna Zaidi, plus the talented Ramsha Khan, Syra Yousuf, and Dananeer. And don’t even get me started on director Nadeem Baig! I knew I had to step up my game, so I trained hard – from drills to weapon handling. I left no stone unturned.

Us: Can you share a memorable moment from the set that was thrilling?

AAM: Absolutely! There was this crazy day we shot the climax of Habs with Feroze Khan on a yacht. After that, I had to jet ski to shore so I wouldn’t be late for my next shoot of Kuch Ankahi on a different location. That day was nothing short of an adventure!

Us: What was it like being part of the Love Guru team? What do you see in the future for Pakistani cinema?

AAM: Being in Love Guru was huge, especially with icons like Humayun Saeed and Mahira Khan on board, along with the brilliant Nadeem Baig directing. I learned so much from the experienced stars, both on and off-screen. The future is bright; once we start cranking out at least 20 major films a year, it’ll pave the way for innovation, growth, and a new wave of stars. We need to consciously build up the next generation of heroes and heroines.

Us: What really fires you up beyond your role as an associate director?

AAM: Acting lights me up! There’s something raw and vulnerable about it, a true creative outlet. Editing, on the other hand, brings the much-needed structure into the chaos. I think a solid director has to keep the edit rolling in their mind while filming.

Us: Can you recall the most intense scene you’ve ever shot?

AAM: Definitely! Filming the hot air balloon sequence in Love Guru was exhilarating, and the action scenes in Main Manto Nahi Hoon really pushed me physically. But as an actor, for me Sinf-e-Aahan was on another level – it demanded real gun training and mental focus. That first experience was a real wake-up call!

Us: Internationally who is the director you admire the most and draw your inspiration from?

AAM: Sanjay Leela Bhansali is the real deal! His way of weaving emotion and music into storytelling is something I’d love to understand better. His work feels like poetry on screen – it’s truly unmatched.

Us: If you were a Hollywood director, what would be your dream collaboration?

AAM: I’d love to work on a wartime drama with heavyweights like Leonardo DiCaprio or Jake Gyllenhaal. I’m all about something raw, profoundly human, and emotionally charged.

Us: How have your parents supported you on this journey?

AAM: They always encouraged me to follow my heart, be kind, and avoid intentionally hurting others. They taught me to keep my head up by appreciating those who have less, reminding me that gratitude is what keeps you grounded.

Us: What would you like to share with aspiring directors?

AAM: Direct with your heart, not just your head. You have to feel the story. If you’re emotionally invested, your audience will feel it too. Prioritize empathy and honesty – technical skills are secondary. Too many films today have the technical polish but lack soul.

Us: What keeps you grounded off-screen?

AAM: Traveling the globe really broadens your perspective and instils humility. I also make it a point to hit the gym and play sports – football, cricket, anything that keeps me active and focused.

RAPID FIRE

Date of birth?

12th April

Early riser or night owl?

Depends on the shoot schedule, but I usually am an early bird. Early light in filmmaking is golden.

Team tea or team coffee?

Coffee all the way – preferably iced!

Go-to comfort food when stressed?

Italian or Mexican – give me pasta, pizza, or a loaded burrito any day. Anything with herbs, olive oil, guacamole, and loads of cheese can lift my spirits.

One word to describe cadet college life?

Transformative. Those three years were a universe of discipline, enduring friendships, and unforgettable adventures. We lived and learned together, and those bonds are lifelong.

All-time favourite movie and TV show?

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Game of Thrones – both offer epic stories and characters that stick with you.

Rock the uniform or chill in a director’s chair?

The director’s chair, no question. Patience has been my biggest takeaway from this journey. True power comes from calmness and clarity, not what you wear.

In-flight ritual?

I like to catch up on a show, review rough cuts, or just zone out and nap. It’s my essential downtime.

Best route for a long drive?

Cruising up the Margalla Hills at sunrise or sunset is unbeatable. For longer trips, the Karakoram Highway to Khunjerab Pass wins every time – the views are breathtaking.

First celebrity crush?

Emma Watson and Selena Gomez! I grew up on Disney, so it makes total sense.

Idea of a perfect date?

Effortless time spent together. Good food, genuine conversation, and a peaceful setting – whether it’s under the stars, by a serene lake, or up on a mountain. Simplicity always wins the day.

Instant deal-breaker in a relationship?

Dishonesty or breaking trust. Once that foundation is gone, there’s not much left to build on.

Monogamy – a vibe or a relic?

Definitely a vibe! Commitment and trust might seem rare these days, but they’re values I hold dear.