Shaheer Ahmed
The highly awaited Pakistani film Kukri: The Untold Story of Serial Killer Javed Iqbal is finally due to visit theatres on June 2 after multiple setbacks and delays. Director Abu Aleeha has made major changes to the film, including renaming it Kukri, and announced earlier this year his intention to resubmit it to the censor board for approval.
Aleeha noted that the decision to modify the film’s name was made because to worries that the original title, Javed Iqbal, might be misunderstood as glorifying the figure. The film’s purpose, according to the director, was never to glorify Iqbal or his horrible actions, but rather to raise awareness and encourage others to recognise and protect their children from child abusers.
Following a screening of the film, the censor board suggested including a statement at the end to underscore the film’s objective. Aleeha indicated that the adjustments to the film were more about additions than cuts, and that the runtime was increased by about ten minutes.
The filmmakers collaborated with Eveready Pictures, a recognised distributor in Pakistan, to ensure a smooth release. They requested a reevaluation of the film from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the federal censor board, assuring their willingness to make any adjustments necessary for the film’s premiere in theatres.
The film is based on the true story of the serial killer, who confessed to the murders of 100 young boys in Lahore in 1999. It has already gained international recognition. It premiered at a film festival in the United Kingdom and has been selected for the prestigious Berlin International Art Film Festival.
