Europe comes to Pakistan through cinema

Romanian film screening fosters cultural exchange, artistic dialogue, and stronger ties

ISLAMABAD:

A Romanian feature film and a wider slate of European cinema have brought fresh attention to Pakistan's growing cultural engagement with Europe, highlighting the potential of storytelling as a bridge between nations.

The screenings, part of the fourth European Film Festival (EUFF) and supported by the Pakistan Romania Business Council (PRBC), offered audiences in Karachi and other cities a window into diverse European histories, experiences, and perspectives. At the Karachi Film School, a Romanian feature drew an enthusiastic response from attendees. Set during the country's political transition in 1989, 'The New Year That Never Came' allows audience a glimpse into social and political upheaval.

Organised jointly by the Romanian Embassy, Romanian Cultural Institute, Romanian Language Institute, Romanian National Archives, PRBC, and the Pakistan-Romania Friendship Association, the screening underscored how cultural initiatives complement diplomatic and economic ties.

PRBC Adviser Atif Farooqi said the film helped viewers understand Romania's history and emphasised how cultural activities foster dialogue while supporting long-term cooperation between countries. The Karachi screening marked one of several activities reflecting the six-decade-long relationship between Pakistan and Romania. The event demonstrated how cinema can illuminate national narratives while building bridges between audiences in different countries.

The Karachi screening was part of the larger European Film Festival, which is running from November 7 to 23 across Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Hosted by the Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan and curated by Olomopolo Media, the festival showcases 19 feature films and 10 short films.

Interactive installations, live performances, and artistic activities are also designed to immerse audiences in the creative process. The festival is free and open to the public, drawing families, students, artists, diplomats, and cinema enthusiasts alike.

The Karachi leg unfolded on November 15 and 16 at the Karachi Film School, where screenings were complemented by readings, social dances, and interactive performances.

Attendees experienced a vibrant fusion of European storytelling and local cultural energy, with each evening concluding in a celebration of art, music, and social connection. The Lahore segment, scheduled for November 22 and 23 at Alhamra Arts Council, will feature a similar mix of films, installations, and interactive spaces, including dramatic readings and social dances, reflecting the city's longstanding passion for the arts.

Across all three cities, EUFF 2025 transformed venues into hubs of creativity, incorporating exhibits such as the 'Wall of Fame', the 'Auteur Ego', 'Human Slot Game', and 360° camera experiences.

Complementary spaces like The Reading Nook and Kids' Corner encouraged reflection and engagement, while food kiosks, photo booths, and open-air lounges contributed to a festival atmosphere that extended beyond traditional cinema-going.

Events like the Romanian screening and broader festival programmes illustrate how cinema can act as a bridge between nations. By offering Pakistani audiences access to international narratives, the festival supports long-term cultural, educational, and diplomatic cooperation.

PRBC representatives noted that such initiatives complement bilateral ties, creating opportunities for dialogue and mutual learning while strengthening connections between Pakistan and Europe, particularly Romania.

As EUFF 2025 continues, organisers hope that the momentum from the festival will inspire further collaboration, cultivate appreciation for global cinema, and reinforce cultural understanding that transcends borders.