REVIEW – Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning – Ambitious Visuals, Lackluster Storytelling

“Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning” strives to elevate Pakistani cinema by adapting the legendary fable of Umro Ayyar into an epic fantasy film. However, despite its commendable ambition and impressive visual effects, the film falls short in several key areas, particularly in storytelling and character development.

The story revolves around Amar, a young science professor who is unaware of his lineage as the last descendant of Umro Ayyar. His mundane life takes a dramatic turn when he is targeted by the evil Laqqa and is subsequently saved by a group of supernatural beings known as the Ayyars. Amar is then introduced to his rich legacy and trained by a wise Guru to combat dark forces. The narrative follows his journey of self-discovery and battle against malevolent entities.

Visually, the film is a treat, showcasing some of the best special effects seen in Pakistani cinema. The VFX team has done a commendable job in creating a fantastical world filled with magical elements, from volumetric simulations to green-screen work and 3D compositions. These visual spectacles provide a glimpse of what local filmmakers can achieve with the right resources and expertise.

However, beyond the visual appeal, the film struggles with its script and character development. The plot lacks coherence, and the story is bogged down by excessive exposition and predictable twists. Usman Mukhtar’s portrayal of Amar is unconvincing, with his character’s transition from a skeptic to a leader of the Ayyars feeling rushed and poorly developed. The supporting cast, including talented actors like Sanam Saeed, Manzar Sehbai, and Ali Kazmi, are constrained by weak dialogues and underdeveloped roles.

Manzar Sehbai, as the Guru, has a few standout moments, particularly in scenes where he shares Amar’s lineage and legacy. However, his final scene could have been executed better to provide a more fitting farewell for such a significant character. Sanam Saeed’s character, despite her strong screen presence, is undermined by lackluster dialogues that fail to utilize her acting potential. Ali Kazmi, known for his impressive looks and physique, delivers a decent performance but is hampered by a lack of substantial material.

One of the film’s significant flaws is its over-reliance on setting up a larger cinematic universe at the expense of a self-contained story. This results in a narrative filled with breadcrumbs for potential sequels rather than focusing on delivering a complete and satisfying story. The absence of key elements from the original Umro Ayyar tales, such as the famous “Zambeel,” further detracts from the authenticity and depth of the film.

The cinematography and lighting also leave much to be desired. The lack of dynamic camera movement and inconsistent lighting choices detract from the film’s visual storytelling. Notable issues include poorly lit scenes and unflattering lighting on actors, which could have been avoided with better planning and execution.

In conclusion, “Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning” is a valiant effort to bring a beloved fable to the big screen with high production values and stunning visuals. However, it falters in its storytelling, character development, and script coherence. While it marks a step forward for Pakistani cinema, it highlights the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes both visual spectacle and compelling narrative. The film’s potential to generate interest for sequels or prequels will largely depend on its reception and box office performance, but it underscores the importance of strong storytelling in creating lasting cinematic impact.