Filmmaker Onir, a champion of queer narratives and indie cinema, has added another feather to his cap. His latest film, We Are Faheem & Karun, will be screened at the 39th edition of the prestigious British Film Institute’s Flare on March 20 and 22, 2025. The film, which is a queer love story set in the backdrop of Kashmir, stars the lead actor Akash Menon from Kerala and also features Kashmiri actors Mir Tawseef, Mir Salman, Bashir Lone and Sana Javeid.
The filmmaker shared his excitement, stating, “This will be the international premiere of our film and the first time a Kashmiri language film, shot entirely in the border regions of Gurez, Kashmir, is showing at the festival. The film would also be the first queer narrative from the Valley. A love story set in Gurez, Kashmir between a security guard at a construction site, Karun, from Kerala, and a local Kashmiri college student, Faheem.”
The film’s inclusion at BFI Flare marks a significant moment for Kashmiri representation in global cinema. Onir emphasized the importance of this milestone, adding, “I am proud that my Kashmiri cast members too will be present at the screening in London. Representation is very important for me. Apart from lead Akash Menon from Kerala, the film features Kashmiri actors Mir Tawseef, Mir Salman, Bashir Lone, and Sana Javeid.”
Acclaimed filmmaker Deepa Mehta, who is presenting We Are Faheem & Karun, expressed her admiration for the film, saying, “I am proud to be presenting ‘We Are Faheem & Karun.’ This film touched me deeply with its themes of love, friendship, and duty, set against a backdrop of geopolitical conflict. We all must remember our humanity in today’s challenging world, and films like this are so important for shining light through.”
With its poignant storytelling and groundbreaking representation, We Are Faheem & Karun promises to be a landmark moment in contemporary queer and Kashmiri cinema.
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