Legends and folklore hold a profound place in the hearts of people, playing a crucial role in cultural narratives. When adapting these stories for the screen, it's essential to maintain a balance between modern relevance and the preservation of their timeless nature. The Pakistani film 'Umro Ayyar - A New Beginning' successfully achieves this balance, providing a contemporary rendition of the classic Persian epic. Focusing on Umro Ayyar, a trickster who, together with the adventurer Amir Hamza, confronts formidable adversaries such as sorcerers, jinns, and demons. Usman Mukhtar, who portrays the titular character, explains, "This is a modern take on a well-loved story that has the potential to revitalize a cherished legend while remaining faithful to its mythical origins." The film's team recently discussed the project at the Khaleej Times office, and the film is now released across the UAE.
Usman Mukhtar shared his excitement about being the first Pakistani superhero, reminiscing about his childhood fascination with characters like Umro Ayyar. He discussed the film's international ambitions, including participation in the WonderCon Film Festival, and the involvement of a stunt team from 'Game of Thrones' to ensure high-quality action sequences. Mukhtar also touched on his personal challenges, such as learning complex choreography and performing stunt-heavy scenes, which he hopes will enhance his overall performance skills.
Sanam Saeed discussed her journey as an actor, embracing diverse roles across various platforms, and her role in the Ayyar clan in the film. She expressed concern about the current generation's lack of engagement with traditional media and the impact of social media on self-perception, emphasizing the importance of providing meaningful content that blends past and present to inspire and provoke thought among the youth.
Salmaan Shoukat shared his experiences with stunts in the film, highlighting his preparation and the challenges faced during action sequences. He noted the importance of a month-long workshop in understanding the technical aspects of stunts, which helped in executing them effectively in the film.
