ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani feature film Ghost School has been recognized as the singular Pakistani film to be showcased at the Red Sea International Film Festival, making a significant impression globally with its passionate depiction of girls’ education and the phenomenon of “Ghost schools” in Pakistan.
Created, directed and produced by Seemab Gul Ghost School sheds light on a social problem by examining the structural obstacles that hinder girls in rural and underserved areas from obtaining education.
Situated in a fishing village, near Karachi the film narrates the tale of Rabia, a girl whose school is suddenly closed. She is informed that the structure has been deserted because of the existence of jinns (spirits). Unable to believe this reason Rabia sets out on a quest to discover the reality behind the shutdown.
As Rabia investigates further the movie slowly reveals the self-serving agendas, corruption and schemes of individuals in the community who exploit fear and superstition to prevent girls from accessing education.
The movie mainly uses actors giving it an authentic and gritty look similar to Iranian films. Of invoking fear the supernatural aspect functions, as a symbol of deceit and manipulation.
Seemab Gul, the director, disclosed that Ghost School was originally a documentary idea but was subsequently turned into a feature film because the story was too rich and complex.
The film made its international debut at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this year and will be released in cinemas in Pakistan next summer.
As the film has been chosen to be screened at the Red Sea International Film Festival, Ghost School is a landmark moment for Pakistani cinema internationally.
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