Latest news with #FahadMustafa
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Nobody's content with the 'content'
Recently, Fahad Mustafa's old comments against family vlogging and the overuse of the word 'content' resurfaced online and caused an uproar among Tiktokers and YouTubers. "'Content' is the most overrated word in this country. There is no such thing as content. Everyone is selling their families. They haven't even left graveyards alone. They go to their mother's grave, and record themselves saying I'm missing my mother, please pray for her. What kind of 'content' is this?" Mustafa had said when asked about sharing the screen with digital content creators during a TV appearance. "I can tell a good or a bad story. But I can't sell my family. I can't sell myself. If you go on a film or TV shoot, it takes time to do this. They can't understand that this takes us 8 to 10 hours since they live in a 10-second world." While the comment offended the Instagram, TikTok and YouTube content creators especially Rajab Butt, as Ricky Gervais says, "Just because you're offended doesn't mean you're right." This back-and-forth has sparked a debate between the traditional media vs digital 'content'. But it's not a clash between Mustafa and Butt. The actor didn't even mention the YouTuber by name. The scope of this is much bigger than a forced, illogical personal feud. Content overload What Mustafa spoke about is a worldwide concern of artists in the face of countless challenges faced today. Be it AI coming in as a wrecking ball to destroy authentic human expression, shorter attention spans engineered over the last decade by social media overconsumption or the declining understanding of storytelling and art due to the aforementioned issues, there are already more than enough battles artists today are fighting to preserve their chosen media and forms of expression. This is not to defend shows like Mustafa's Jeeto Pakistan, which feed into the same Black Mirror-esque humiliation-in-exchange-of-gifts convention. But Mustafa has created work with a certain artistic integrity in film and TV both, namely Actor in Law and Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum. However, phone cameras and social media platforms combined today have created an illusion that everyone is an artist, actor, or filmmaker. While the democratisation of the media has had numerous benefits, and this is certainly not an issue of gatekeeping, talking into a camera and showing what you cooked for lunch does not exactly require an abundance of talent or skill. There are many arguments to be made against family vlogging. The internet is full of stories of disgruntled and traumatized individuals forced by their in-house vlogger, be it a parent or a child, to be documented 24/7 for the sake of views. But the crux of the matter isn't even that. It's the fact that 'content' has replaced art, cinema and storytelling. The issues start with the usage of the word 'content' which piles up every artform into one giant automated factory where every creation serves the algorithm and the algorithm, in turn, feeds it back to us. It disintegrates the distinguishing characters of each art form and strips it of any value. This is why Mustafa's comments about the word ring true. If everything is content, then there's no difference between a feature film that takes years to produce and a bag of apples. This argument doesn't devalue platforms like YouTube which can be used for a myriad of purposes from education to art and music and everything in between. It criticizes the forced homogeneity of all art forms. And family vlogging is definitely not an art form. Casting influencers In recent years, even in Hollywood, we have seen a number of so-called social media influencers turn to film and TV. But none comes to mind when thinking about who has excelled and been recognized for their skills. One can bring up Logan Paul but he has succeeded in WWE and pro-wrestling is a vastly different kind of storytelling than film or TV. Films which star the influencers usually land on streaming platforms which again play by the algorithm and casting content creators becomes essentially the same as product placement or a gimmick to cater to the said individual's social media following. Earlier this year in an interview with Variety, Ethan Hawke also lamented the fact that filmmakers are being forced to cast based on Instagram following. He said, "Sometimes I'll be setting a movie up and someone will say, 'Oh, you should cast Suzie.' I'm like, 'Who is she?' 'She has 10 million followers.' I'm like, 'OK cool, has she acted before?' 'No, but ' And you're like, 'Wow, so this is going to help me get the movie made? This is crazy.' So if I don't have this public-facing [platform], I don't have a career? And if I get more followers I might get that part? What?" Just because someone is a social media 'content' creator doesn't automatically mean they'd be good at acting or creating any kind of art. The mindset involved in both is on the opposite ends of the spectrum. That ties in with another question: aren't most studio films made with the intent of profit and hence, they cast bankable actors to attract their fanbase. How is that different from casting a digital content creator? One response to that would be that the bankable actors can usually, if not always, act and do their job well. It's the same as when Pakistani media networks and digital platforms tried to make the 'Chaiwala' into the next big star after he went viral for his looks. It didn't work. As a filmmaker, there's a massive difference between working with trained professionals and amateur enthusiasts. Most of the time, the lack of understanding of the process results in a low-calibre work. But we live in a world where everyone only wants to be on screen and get those 15 minutes of fame. And if 10-second reels can do that, who would spend months and years to tell a good story?
Gulf News
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Why Pakistani family drama Parvarish on episode 9 is striking home with its take on parenting, angst and emotional showdown
Dubai: When the superheroes of our childhood—our parents—begin to stumble, who picks up the cape? That's the quietly devastating question Parwarish, the new ARY Digital drama, asks with every tear, hug, and dinner-table showdown. Airing Mondays and Tuesdays evenings, this star-studded family drama isn't your typical sob-fest; it's a sharply crafted portrait of modern-day parenthood wrapped in love, sacrifice, and some serious intergenerational angst. Created by Fahad Mustafa, directed by Meesam Naqvi, and written by Kiran Siddiqui, Parwarish reunites Mayi Ri sweethearts Aina Asif and Samar Abbas Jafri in a narrative that's a delicious mix of old-school values and Gen-Z rebellion. The plot orbits around Wali Jahangir (played with heart by Jafri), a musically gifted young man who returns to Pakistan after studying in the U.S., only to clash head-on with his conservative father Jahangir (played by the ever-regal Naumaan Ijaz). And Maya (played by Asif) is no damsel-in-distress either—she's a fierce medical aspirant from a traditional household, determined to chart her own course. When these two collide, it's less fireworks, more emotional implosion—with plenty of commentary on parental expectations and social pressure. But let's not pretend it's just the youngsters holding our attention. Savera Nadeem's turn as Mahnoor, the mother trying to keep the peace while simmering with her own frustrations, is a study in restraint. Add to that the dignified presence of Shamim Hilali and Arshad Mehmood as the family elders, and you have a cast that not only carries the weight of this emotionally charged show but elevates it. Critics have so far been cautiously optimistic. According to ARY, the show aims to explore the 'silent struggles of parenthood,' and it does—particularly through themes of emotional labor, aging, and the unspoken grief of watching one's children grow distant. Meanwhile, early viewer reviews on Reddit and YouTube are filled with delight over the pacing and the chemistry between the leads. One Redditor aptly noted, 'The story unfolded quickly for the first episode. I was very surprised.' Another chimed in about Samar's comic timing, adding a much-needed splash of humor in an otherwise heavy plot. That said, not all feedback is glowing. A few viewers have mentioned that the storyline flirts with melodrama and familiar tropes. But let's be honest—who tunes in to a desi drama expecting stoicism? What Parwarish does right is give those clichés emotional teeth, inviting the audience to see the fractures forming in even the most ideal households. So yes, the series tugs at your heartstrings, but it doesn't manipulate. It's not about villains and heroes—it's about nuance, regret, and that bittersweet moment when a child sees their parent not as a god, but as a human.
Express Tribune
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Rajab Butt targets Fahad Mustafa once again
Listen to article Popular Pakistani YouTuber Rajab Butt has once again spoken out against actor and producer Fahad Mustafa, reigniting a public dispute that previously sparked backlash. Now residing abroad, Butt shared his latest remarks during a podcast, where he addressed his earlier comments and the controversy surrounding his perfume brand "295." During the interview, Butt reflected on the responsibilities of senior artists in the industry, stating, 'A true senior earns respect through their actions. If you expect respect, you must offer it too.' He criticised Fahad Mustafa for allegedly belittling digital creators and urged him to support rather than undermine rising talent. He added, 'When someone with millions of subscribers uploads a drama to YouTube, it's considered legitimate, but when digital creators do the same, they're accused of exploiting their families — that's a double standard.' Butt, once an admirer of Mustafa's game show Jeeto Pakistan, said his perception changed after Fahad's past remarks, stating he no longer holds the same respect for him. Offering advice, he said, 'Next time you see a junior succeed, appreciate him instead of demeaning him. That's how you earn lasting respect.' The renewed remarks have sparked conversation once again, as the divide between mainstream and digital content creators continues to grow.
Express Tribune
20-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Netizens enjoy Farhan Saeed's comments on Farshi Shalwar trend
Listen to article The 'Farshi Shalwar', a fashion trend that originated as a women's style, has now gained popularity among men, making its way into the wardrobes of several celebrities. The voluminous trousers, a traditional South Asian garment with roots in the Mughal era, had faded from the spotlight for a time. However, it has made a strong comeback, with male celebrities such as Fahad Mustafa, Falak Shabir, and other actors embracing the look. While singer and actor Farhan Saeed has yet to wear the Farshi Shalwar himself, he made a humorous comment about the trend that quickly circulated on social media. On Instagram, Farhan posted a story with remark: "Kash Farshi Shalwar ke saath Farshi attitude bhi in ho jaye!" which translates to, "I wish the 'Farshi Shalwar' came with a matching 'Farshi Attitude' too!"
Express Tribune
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Fahad's upper hand in style
Be it acting roles or outfits-of-the-day, Fahad Mustafa aces the challenge of bringing something new to the table. Now with Ramazan in full swing, the actor is back to stun his audience with a new ensemble everyday. Though, what stands out across all these garments are the uppers that he tops them off with. From vests to blazers to jackets, here are eight times Fahad triumphed in the upper game. More is more One of his latest attires to stir up a storm was a cream pixel-printed kurta shalwar, topped with an embroidered jacket. Geometrically sewn with pastel threads and a delicate spangle of sequins, the pale jacket added an elegant finish to the soft colours of the outfit, especially the light turquoise of the kurta's print. The embroidery featured abstract shapes and botanical touches, reminiscent of a painting. While his Monday post was all about the lighter palettes, the Sunday one shone in vibrant colours. Draping his beige kurta and trousers was a jacket displaying patches of dark browns, brick reds, and bright yellows among others. While the cream jacket's embroidery indulged gentle chaos, the patched jacket put on a brazen display with its irregularly stitched presentation. With nothing but veiny threads separating its patches, this Frankenstein-esque article celebrated variety in bold abundance. Cold and colder Never limiting himself to one direction, Fahad also knows how to keep it simple and classy. Keeping a uniform-toned ensemble with the exception of standout golden zippers, he donned a deep brownish purple jacket, exhibiting a silken look. With the weather getting warmer by the day, breezy outfits are becoming a natural go-to, and the Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum star is not one to stay behind. He finished the look off with dark shades and a black leather watch. The sun may be high in the skies, but Fahad still keeps it cool on the streets. "Confidence is the best outfit. Rock it and own it!" he said with this next outfit, which went for a deep blue canvas and intricate floral patterns on the jacket. Opting for dimmer colours on the flowers this time, the film star channelled regal excellence with this jacket, which was accentuated by a trickle of glittering sequins. He complemented the suave look with cool blue shades. Best in brown Fahad's next jacket slid over a dark green kurta shalwar, like the shadowy comfort of a rainforest. The jacket incorporated a blueish green hue among various shades of brown, all divided by wave-like, rugged patterns, adding to the soft tropical feel of the ensemble. Once again, the jacket seemed to be a player of its own, stealing the spotlight from an already impressive collection of fabrics. In sharp contrast to the dim feel of this jacket was a sepia vest over a brown and white florid top. The vest sported simple line art sprouting from the hem and extending to the chest. Fahad wore the collared piece loosely, keeping his signature casually cool way of presenting himself. This look also indicated his inclination towards botanical themes infused with intricate patterns and a motley of colours. Dark and classy Speaking of vests, please don't assume that this adored film and TV star only sticks to vibrant colours, for one of his most gleaming looks this month has been a navy ensemble. His deep blue pants and vests were dotted with stars, swimming in an impression of a constellation. Again, the upper vowed to stand apart, its openings laced with pale yellow to separate it from the rest of the ensemble. Staying true to his accessory inclinations, Fahad rounded the look with a pair of soft purple glasses, tying the midnight look together. And finally, no one can avoid black for too long, which was the Na Maloom Afraad star's safe start for this month. Donning a stylish shalwar kameez stitched with intricate patterns, he put on a black blazer patched down the chest and along the wrists. The touch of glamour elevated what could have been a plain and traditional look, embellishing it with finery that sparkled though without overwhelming the onlooker. Hardly anyone looks bad in black, yet Fahad still found a way to make the colour his own.
