Pakistani teacher turned star faces violent backlash
Noor , a widowed schoolteacher and young boy’s mother, seeks to raise money for a girls’ school in her native Pakistan. As a way to garner interest and donations, she dons a purple wig and takes to social media – for better and much worse.
Her bestie Guchhi , a member of the LGBTQ community, glams her up for a night at the club, and it’s there she witnesses a provocative dancer who inspires Noor to create her alter ego, Wakhri. The film’s first act is a bit messy, offering little context at the outset for viewers unaware of the cultural significance of how Wakhri and Guchhi’s penchant for sequins and bold moves would be received in Pakistan, at least outside of preconceived notions.
While Noor navigates personal and professional challenges, her alter ego Wahkri uses her newfound voice and sexy persona to speak her mind on social media, which ultimately draws violent attention from strangers. The club scenes’ bright lights and bouncing pop music offer an entertaining contrast to daily life; tender moments with Noor’s family create an emotional component that gives perspective in the rapidly changing scenario.
“If you’re one of the misunderstood, a misfit, this film is for you,” said writer and director Iram Parveen Bilal before the screening. Afterwards, she continued, “Every time a brave and unapologetic woman is taken down, it feels personal.” Just as activists make space for change, art makes space for anyone who colors outside the lines.
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