Birthday treat: Ali Zafar unveils dream project 'Deosai'

Action drama will be set in the northern areas of Pakistan, and is scheduled for a worldwide release in 2016

KARACHI: Pakistani superstar Ali Zafar, who time and again has expressed his desired to produce a feature film, finally announced his dream project on his birthday, May 18. 

The actor is all set to produce and act in a feature film titled Deosai.

The action drama will be set in the northern areas of Pakistan, and will be shot on real locations. Scheduled to go on the floors by the end of summer 2015, it is listed for a worldwide theatre release by mid-2016.

Earlier on Sunday, Ali announced to disclose his dream project.

I will be announcing my dream project, my next feature film, tomorrow on my Birthday :)

— Ali Zafar (@AliZafarsays) May 17, 2015

Imran Babur, one of Pakistan's most respected names in visual storytelling, will be directing the film.

Read: Ali Zafar rejects 3 Bollywood films to work in Pakistani film

"Having worked intensely in the northern areas, I fell in love with the idea and story Ali shared with me,” says Imran. “It's an extremely powerful story and I am excited and honoured to be a part of this project."



PHOTO: PUBLICITY

Talking about the film, Ali said, "Being an artist who likes to discover the intricacies of various art forms ... for me, venturing out into creating a feature film is a thrilling beginning.”

The artist says he wants to play his part in the revival of the Pakistani film industry and make films that are not just avant-garde in their narrative and aesthetics but also meaningful.

Read: VIDEO: A sneak peek into Ali Zafar’s Peshawar tribute

“… films that can make a difference and are remembered for a long time for their content besides aiming to be successful commercial ventures,” he says. "I waited for that right intuition and idea for my first film as an actor/producer and I am extremely happy with the way it has shaped up.”

Ali loves mountains, and is eager to begin the film shoot at the earliest.

“I just can't wait to visit and shoot in all those breath-taking locations in the north, especially the second highest plateau in the world, Deosai, which is known as the land of the giants, after which we have named the title.

I am most excited and feel lucky to have found a great director and a talented and experienced team to translate a dream into reality."

The team is currently looking to cast a female lead.