The top three documentaries all focused on environmental issues. Fahad Afaq’s production titled The Bovine River was shot at the bank of River Ravi and attempted to highlight the contamination of its water by the waste generated in the city. It also documented the use of the River by buffaloes and cows and captured milkmen in the act – mixing water from the river into the milk before setting off on their daily rounds. A professional filmmaker praised his work but stated that the background score interfered with the mood of the short film.
Arsalan’s silent project focusing on the disposal of the city’s solid waste followed. Through narration hinging on background music, the director attempted to convey the city’s incapacity to handle its generation of waste. His too received some criticism for his choice of soundtracks. Arsalan defended his work stating that the choice was deliberate and meant to defy the stereotypical use of music.
Life, the third offering was shot in the slums near the bank of Ravi. It took the audience through the lives of people dwelling in slum establishments within urban areas – existing within but removed from its luxuries. This film drew a parallel with the first one as it depicted the daily stroll by residents of the slums to gather polluted water from the river for drinking purposes. A faculty member commented that the film could have gone the extra mile by incorporating the history of the river and its gradual pollution.
A large crowd of students, professors, film makers and movie enthusiasts commended the work with loud applause.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 11th, 2010.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ