Neeli Zinda Hai Has An Immediately Intriguing First Episode

While there has been a vast number of new shows being churned out this past week by all Pakistani drama channels, few have actually managed to capture viewer interest. 2-3 have managed to make an impression and “Neeli Zinda Hai” falls into this category. Written by Adeel Razaq and directed by Qasim Ali Mureed, this drama stars Mohib Mirza, Sonia Mishal and Urwa Hocane in lead roles, supported by Shabbir Jan, Mohammad Ahmed, Kinza Malik and others. The first episode takes off on a high note.

In episode 1, we are introduced to Aman (Mohib Mirza) and Sumbal (Sonia Mishal), a couple who are in an unhealthy place in their marriage. While Aman has spent the majority of their marriage working in Australia, Sumbal and their mute daughter have been living with Aman’s parents – and Aman’s mother, played by Kinza Malik, has not been kind. There are heavy emotional scars that Sumbal has been carrying due to the terrible attitude she has been on the receiving end of and, after suffering a miscarriage, she is further broken. Aman attempts to win over his wife, but she isn’t interested, making it clear that she has no interest in fixing a bond that will dimmish when he leaves yet again. However, Aman not only tells her that he has left his job to come back to her, but also, after an argument with his mother, tells the family that he has bought a new home and will be moving there with Sumbal and their child. This is a new start for this family and Aman seems to have very good intentions in repairing his relationship with not only his wife, but also his daughter. Unfortunately, his mother is furious at his abandonment and appears to have negative intentions, which are leaning on the side of black magic.

The first episode pulls the viewer in immediately with how well it has been shot. Visually, the show is attractive to look at. Mohib Mirza and Sonia Mishal make a strong impression as a troubled husband and wife and share good chemistry. Mohammad Ahmed is also likable in his role as a supportive father. While it appears the show will have a black magic angle, which has been done to death and is rarely a likable track, there’s intrigue and mystery already unfolding at the new house. The first episode of “Neeli Zinda Hai” is not scary (yet) – but the promo for episode 2 will certainly change that. So far, “Neeli Zinda Hai” is off to a good start!