“Neeli Zinda Hai” has gripped viewers over the pats several weeks with its dark tale of spirits and the supernatural. Starring Urwa Hocane, Mohib Mirza, Sonia Mishal, Mohammad Ahmed, Kinza Malik and others in lead roles. The story has been written by Adeel Razaq and directed by Qasim Ali Mureed. In the last episode, we saw that the family has realized Neeli is a spirit haunting their house, no longer believing Sumbal is mentally unstable.
In episode 29, Sumbal (Sonia Mishal) and Aman (Mohib Mirza) have a discussion, the two trying to make amends for all the misunderstandings between them caused by Neeli (Urwa Hocane). Still, what this makes clear to both is that Neeli is after Minal and she is at the center of this scenario. Digging even deeper, Sumbal has a discussion with Aaliyah about Neeli’s involvement with Danish’s father, recollecting his behavior when he first visited their house and afterwards. Sumbal attempts to have a discussion with Daniyal (Agha Mustafa) about Neeli and her backstory, but Daniyal’s wife drags Sumbal out of the house.
The introduction of the Aalim in the show is a highlight. He is refreshingly different from what we’ve seen in past dramas, shady, “kooky” characters being passed off as spiritual healers. This Aalim is educated and religious, discussing science and religion together. It’s also great to see how he encourages the family to pray to improve their conditions in the house and protect themselves from Neeli. This is a likeable character and the viewer actually enjoys watching him on-screen.
Aside from the introduction of this character, what works for Neeli is the fabulous cast, all of which are putting forth some great performances. What works against the show is how long mystery surrounding Neeli has been dragged out. Neeli’s past has been concealed for so long that it’s now at the point where regardless of what the story is, we already know it will be rushed. Where is Osama Tahir? His character has only been seen fleetingly in one scene and while viewers have been expecting him to make an appearance again, we are now at 30 episodes and he is yet to re-appear. While the show overall has been interesting and it has picked up pace in the past few episodes, it needs to hit the gas and move forward full-speed ahead, along with including some strong horror sequences.
