When “Contractors” was launched, audiences sat up and took notice of not only the concept, but the lead actors. Often in our industry, our senior actors are reduced to playing parent or grandparent roles without much scope to act, forcing them to eventually leave the industry or step into a directorial role. Either way, our best actors are not getting a chance to do what they love most – act. Therefore, when Mohammed Ahmed and Shamim Hilaly appeared on our screens as the main leads in “Contractors,” it was automatically a moment of celebration. Adding to the excitement is the script by Mohammed Ahmed and Shah Yasir directed by Mehreen Jabbar. But did “Contractors” live up to the expectations?
In this short 5-episode series, we are introduced to Rashid (Mohammed Ahmed) and Nigar (Shamim Hilaly), a kind, elderly couple who also make a living as contract killers. The two are ready to retire and begin their life safely in Mexico, out of the line of suspicion when their tenant, Sarah, who they have raised like a daughter requires funds to attend university in the US. This leads them to perform their last contract job. Unfortunately, the two are getting old and, as a result, getting a bit sloppy. They draw the attention of not only inspector Hammad (Haaris Waheed), but also Sarah, who begins to grow suspicious, believing the two are responsible for her father’s death.
The greatest highlight of “Contractors” is its length. This brief, 5-episode story keeps audiences hooked without dragging out the narrative unnecessarily. 2023 was the year of the mini series and it looks like this is a format that will stick around for a while – and that’s a welcome change. Mohammed Ahmed and Shah Yasir’s writing is crisp, never veering off-track and keep the story engaging. Yes, the mystery surrounding Sarah’s father could have been better executed, as it wasn’t as intriguing as it should have been, but otherwise, well done! Mehreen Jabbar’s direction is great, as always, and it does appear that she’s enjoying working again with these short stories coming back into the fold.
The cast is excellent, particularly Mohammed Ahmed and Shamim Hilaly who share excellent chemistry and win our hearts as this old, aging couple with a secret. Haaris Waheed is a natural as inspector Hammad, proving once again that he’s a talented, underrated actor who deserves so much more. Hamzah Tariq Jamil is likable as Kashan and Mehmood Aslam plays his part well.
Were there negatives? Sure. The costumes were a bit over-the-top at times. Honestly, if one saw individuals dressed like Rashid and Nigar in real life, they’d be drawing more attention to themselves rather than blending in! Also, the Sarah character, played by Mamya Shajaffar, is all over the place emotionally throughout the entire show. She never appears to be a particularly loving or trusting individual, which makes it hard to connect with her at any point in the show.
“Contractors” has been an enjoyable, though brief, ride and is highly recommended. With Nigar and Rashid moving to Mexico, this is one of the rare moments where we believe a sequel would be welcome. We’d love to watch Nigar and Rashid’s antics on foreign shores!