International Art House Series
Writer-director Saim Sadiq's lush and poignant debut feature explores the emotional intricacies and complexities of navigating love, desire, identity, and sexual rebellion in a repressive society. In 2022, Joyland became the first Pakistani film awarded the Un Certain Regard jury prize at Cannes.
Gentle and timid, Haider (Ali Junejo) lives with his wife Mumtaz (Rasti Farooq), his father, and his elder brother’s family in Lahore, Pakistan. Following a long spell of unemployment, Haider finally lands a job at a Bollywood-style burlesque, telling his family he is a theater manager when, in actuality, he is a backup dancer. The unusual position shakes up the steadfast traditional dynamics of his household and enables Haider to break out of his shell. As he acclimates to the new job, Haider becomes infatuated with the strong-willed trans woman Biba (Alina Khan) who runs the show—an unforeseen partnership that opens his eyes and ultimately his worldview, in ways both unexpected and intimate. [126 min; drama; Punjabi and Urdi with English subtitles]
"What’s in a name? For Pakistani filmmaker Saim Sadiq, there’s so much meaning wrapped up in the title of his extraordinary debut feature, Joyland." — Hannah Bae, San Francisco Chronicle
"Ali Junejo’s performance ranks as one of the finest you’ll see in any year." — Randy Myers, San Jose Mercury News
"The theme of repression in a regimented society percolates throughout this melancholy and lovely Pakistani film." — Mark Jenkins, Washington Post
Any film screened at IU Cinema may contain content that viewers find sensitive or upsetting. Visit our Audience Advisories page to learn more.
