Ramadan has arrived – and along with Ramadan come Ramadan dramas. These daily shows aim to tickle the funny bone and, hopefully, draw audiences in with its character relationships. In the past, we’ve had one or two or even three (at the maximum) Ramadan dramas, leaving plenty of time to keep up with our regular shows. Unfortunately, over time, the number of offerings has increased. This year, we have at least six shows on air during Ramadan. While “Rafta Rafta” on Green Entertainment is yet to air and “Chand Nagar” has yet to be watched, let’s rank the remaining four dramas from most recommended to least entertaining.
1) Very Filmy
Without a doubt, “Very Filmy” is the Ramadan drama of the season. Starring Dananeer Mobeen and Ameer Gilani in lead roles, the show also stars Bushra Ansari, Ukhano, Mira Sethi, Ali Safina, Nabeel Zuberi and many other talented actors. The story has been written by Mohammed Ahmed and directed by Ali Hassan. “Very Filmy” manages to pull audiences in immediately with an enjoyable (though not immediately funny) first episode – and yet, by episode two, the audience is laughing out loud with uncontrollable laughter. The story follows Rohaan (Ameer Gilani) and Daniya (Dananeer Mobeen), two young individuals thrown together in an arranged marriage. While the duo fight back against an unwanted relationship, they will soon discover love. We can confidently call “Very Filmy” the winner of the Ramadan season, delivering a stellar second episode which guarantees continued viewership. Also, we have to give a shout-out to Ameer Gilani for his hilarious SRK impersonation and Bushra Ansari’s equally great reactions. This is worth a watch!
2) Tere Mere Sapnay
Har Pal Geo’s second show, “Tere Mere Sapnay” shows great promise with its cast and treatment. The story follows Amaal (Sabeena Farooq), a confident young girl living with her family. Amaal meets Azlan (Shahzad Sheikh) in a chaotic encounter and their argumentative relationship ultimately turns into one of love and understanding. Unfortunately, their families have waged war against one another and the lovebirds will have to scheme to stay together. Shahzad Sheikh is highly likable in a light-hearted, comical role while Sabeena Farooq slips into her role with ease. The supporting cast includes Noor Ul Hassan, Hina Bayat, Saqib Sameer, Mani, Hira Soomro, Madiha Rizvi and others while the story has been written by Samra Bukhari and directed by Ali Faizan. There are too many characters here, but this family opposition romance isn’t bad.
3) Ishqaway
This is a unique case, because Har Pal Geo’s “Ishqaway” is not immediately engrossing nor does it have particularly lovable characters. Written by Amar Khan and directed by Zahid Mehmood, the story is essentially a modern-day Cinderella story where we are introduced to our Cinderella, Zoya (Nazish Jahangir) and her evil stepmother Niraali (Maria Wasti). Zoya dreams of a different life – enter Shahrukh (Agha Ali), a man who has a connection to Zoya and enters her home as the house help with the intent to protect her. The first two episodes of “Ishqaway” are honestly very loud, particularly the sequences with Maria Wasti and Behroze Sabzwari. However, there are some plus points, particularly Agha Ali. Agha Ali has been looking for a role worth his time – and this is it. Agha Ali is not only the best part of “Ishqaway,” out of all the Ramadan dramas, Agha Ali’s performance is the best so far. His scenes are humorous and witty thanks to his charisma. Nazish Jahangir is also very likable in her role as Zoya. If we continue watching this show, it will be for these two actors. Is the show worth watching? This one is currently balancing on the fence with some high points, but an equal amount of low ones.
4) Dil Pe Dastak
If Hum TV has a clear winner with “Very Filmy,” it also has a solid loser with “Dil Pe Dastak.” Starring Khaqan Shahnawaz, Aena Khan, Behroze Sabzwari, Sakina Samo, Farhan Ali Agha, Arjumand Rahim and others, the story has been written by Hassan Imam and directed by Ali Masud Saeed. Saad (Khaqan Shahnawaz) and Sarah (Aena Khan) are neighbors and best friends. While Saad is flirtatious and spends much of his time with girls, Sarah is an outspoken, confident young woman who knows what she wants. The two will ultimately discover their feelings for one another. While this show would’ve looked good on paper with two good looking leads in the form of Khaqan Shahnawaz and Aena Khan and a good supporting cast, this is not what transpires. The supporting cast overact, the leads are trying way too hard and the editing is absolutely atrocious. Based on episode one, “Dil Pe Dastak” is a waste of time.
Which shows are your favorites this season?