I had the privilege of watching Qulfee at Cinepax Cinema, Ocean Mall, Karachi, on the day of Eid – also the first day, first show of the film. Being a fan of thriller and suspense genres, I was excited to see how this Pakistani movie would tackle the gripping world of cyber crimes and hacker mafias, a concept that’s becoming increasingly relevant in today’s digital age.
Against all guesses, Qulfee is not a person but a hacking software – an innovative tool capable of uncovering confidential data from banks. Zulfee (Shahroz Sabzwari) and Cookie are two talented software engineers, well-versed in the art of hacking, who gain access to this software. With their technical prowess and a shared desire for financial gain, they decide to put Qulfee to work, targeting some of the largest and most secure banks in the country.
Enter Komal – a significant presence in Zulfee’s life. She becomes a dear part of his world, and their romance blossoms amidst the high-stakes tension of the plot. Komal’s relationship with Zulfee is a central emotional anchor in the film, providing a balance to the otherwise intense thriller. Their love story is a heartfelt and captivating subplot that gives depth to Zulfee’s character, making him more relatable to the audience. Both Shahroz Sabzwari and Saeeda Imtiaz shine in their respective roles, portraying Zulfee and Komal with authenticity and warmth. Their chemistry is evident, and they bring an emotional depth to the film, which is crucial in making the audience feel invested in the stakes of the story.
A surprising and bold entry in the film is Mariam Ansari, who, despite having a limited role, leaves a lasting impression. Unlike her appearances in television dramas, she fully embraces the cinematic experience – delivering a powerful performance that includes high-energy dance sequences and even some gripping fight scenes. Her fearless portrayal adds an extra layer of excitement to the movie, proving that even in a short screen time, a strong performance can make an impact.
Another lead character that plays a crucial role in the film is Gulaab Chatri (GC), portrayed by Shamil Khan. Stepping into the shoes of a traditional Pakistani villain, Shamil Khan brings an intense and menacing presence to the screen. His portrayal is commanding, making GC a character that truly stands out. The carefully chosen words and the impactful formation of dialogues enhance the villain’s power, giving him a dominating presence in the film. Whether through his expressions, body language, or signature dialogue delivery, Shamil Khan ensures that GC leaves a lasting impression as a formidable antagonist.
Though Qulfee marks Shahroz Sabzwari’s third film and Saeeda Imtiaz’s fourth, their performances in this movie have cemented their place among the top-tier actors in the Pakistani film industry. They have delivered career-defining performances, proving their versatility and star power. Their work in Qulfee is a testament to their growth as actors, and they truly deserve a top spot in the industry.
One of the most powerful aspects of Qulfee is its music. The film features three songs – Heer, Party Karni Hai, and Naina – each of which adds a unique flavor to the movie. Not only are the songs well-composed, but they are also performed exceptionally well on screen, making them one of the standout features of Qulfee. Heer is sung by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Naina by Hamid Ali Khan, and Party Karni Hai by Raga Boyz, Damia, Parisa. Adding to the musical brilliance of the film, there is also an item song performed by Zoya Khan. She captivates the audience with her mesmerizing dance moves, making her performance one of the most visually striking moments in the film. Her confidence and screen presence add a glamorous touch, making the item song the icing on the cake.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Qulfee is its well-crafted script, written and produced by Mashood Qadri. What makes his contribution even more astonishing is the fact that he is a doctor by profession! Despite not coming from a traditional filmmaking background, Qadri has delivered a screenplay that is gripping, well-structured, and filled with powerful dialogues. His writing demonstrates a deep understanding of language, emotion, and storytelling, proving that passion and talent can transcend professional boundaries. His ability to craft an engaging narrative in the complex world of cyber crimes is highly commendable, making him a promising figure in Pakistan’s film industry. The film also features many double-meaning dialogues, adding another layer of wit and entertainment to the script. If a viewer catches the inner meaning of these dialogues, they will definitely enjoy the script to the heart and soul, making Qulfee not just a thriller but also an intelligent cinematic experience.
Beyond its thrilling storyline and gripping performances, Qulfee serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world. The film sheds light on the real-world threats of cyber theft – be it financial fraud or identity theft – and how such crimes can have devastating consequences on individuals and organizations alike. In today’s world, where digital transactions and online data sharing are a part of everyday life, Qulfee compels its audience to think about cybersecurity. It highlights the importance of being aware of cyber risks, staying vigilant against online fraud, and implementing strong security measures to protect personal and financial information. The movie subtly urges viewers to develop a better understanding of cybersecurity and adopt risk-mitigating strategies, making it not just an entertaining watch but also an eye-opener for the modern digital age.