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Onir's surprisingly hopeful film WE ARE FAHEEM AND KARUN was spellbinding from the get go - the timeless landscape of Kashmir, the uncertainty etched on the faces of the young and old, the excited visitors... and in the middle of everyday life in Gurez are Faheem and Karun. Wide-eyed Karun is new to Kashmir and falls deeply in love with radiant Faheem. Their tragic love story unfolds slowly but surely without ever feeling balanced on the tropes of a queer romance set in an occupied land. Faheem smiles and shares his dreams with his dad, Faheem's mum laments but for a second about her dreams, and Faheem's brother dreams of release from his sense of desperation and enslavement. Stellar performances by Kashmiri actors Sana Javed (Faheem's mum), Mir Salman (Faheem's brother Zaid), and Tawsif Mir (Faheem) power this Kashmiri/Urdu film as it hurtles towards its inevitable ending. I'm left wondering what next as I stare at Faheem's stoic face, which is about to crumble under the weight of a love lost.

Onir is masterful storyteller and skilled filmmaker, but rarely do we find inspiring humans at the helm of films - he is someone who is able to carve a human story, a story of longing, of pain, and of hope in the face of insurmountable odds. This was not just a queer love story, it was a love story. I was proud to see Kashmiri talent shine on the silver screen. Thank you. Thank you, Onir.

"We Are Faheem & Karun" is yet another remarkable creation by Onir; this movie, like others before this, deal with the relatable realities of the queer community and also an insight of the lives's experiences here in India. The protagonists Faheem and Karun, depicted the love, strife and conflict with absolute brilliance; Mir Tawseef and Akash Mennon remarkable work you two, loved it.

This movie also helped me gain perspective of the acceptability affecting the queer persons in Kashmir; to a most welcome surprise this movie showed Faheem's family to be accepting of their son's "queerness" - the brother with his care and concern, the mother (played by Sana Javeid) filled with sorrow for her son's broken heart and the father who never spoke about it, but the expressions spoke silently in volumes.

Mir Salman playing the role of Zaid, Faheem's brother, was amazing with his rather angry albeit loving character. Hats off to him. The duality of his character portrayed in this movie was such a reality check of the complexities of human emotions: his own internal conflicts, his anger, his demons while simultaenously showing worry and concern for his brother and family.

I want to take a moment to especially mention the appreciation of Deep Pradhan with the beautiful background music.

And I can't get the location out of my thoughts - simply surreal; Gurez is beautiful! Nostalgia struck me often while I sat there watching the movie.

Onir, Thank You! Thank you for sharing this story; eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

All Of You, Cast & Crew, You Are Awesome! Stay Awesome!

Romance is in the nuances - giving a small chocolate to your lover, keeping an apple for him, sitting with him at the doorstep, gazing at him without saying anything.

Onir sets the movie in a background of a conflict zone - how it affects love, especially a queer one. How it manifests in real life - through the mundane and ordinary. At check posts, at small eateries. It's not in grand gestures, it is in small conversations and waiting. While a sense of dread and strain always persists because of the background, the butterflies don't go away.

The last scene of the movie with no dialogues, says so much, I wish more people watched it and talked about it.

The story is really unique and beautiful and the way it is portrayed is excellent. The characters are limited but everyone has an internal story and are real, funny and their relationships with their family are completely pure. The border place and village is like a painting (included with mountains, river, trees and beautiful houses).

Which will take you easily to the different world.

Thank you so much Sir making this kind of cinema where Life is not a race and flows at a natural pace.

I have written some lines for the story.

I hope you like it !

Kadam sarhad ka pehra kiye, Nazaron me mohabbat ki chamak liye, Dil me armaanon ka ghoont piye, Ek hath hathiyar, doosre me Seb diye,

Intzaar me ho sukoon ki aas, barsa hai badal boondon ke sath,

Mehkane lagi mitti, khilne lage fool, Watch it ! Kyunki ye Rishta bhi hai cool.

Lots of Love !!!

I watched this film in jagran film festival 2024, and I'm absolutely blown away. It's been a while since a movie captivated me this much - every moment was amazing, spectacular, and mind-blowing.

From start to finish, the film grips you with its masterful storytelling, brilliant performances, and breathtaking visuals. The attention to detail and the seamless direction made each scene immersive and emotionally resonant. The cinematography was stunning, and the way the narrative unfolded kept me engaged, constantly surprising me. The pacing was perfect - not a single moment felt wasted.

This is more than just a movie - it's an experience that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. If you haven't watched it yet, I highly recommend that you do. It's a masterpiece that deserves all the praise it can get!

Onir Sir, Hats off to you and your vision, keep shining.

"We Are Faheem & Karun" is a beautifully crafted film directed by Onir that resonated deeply with me, especially as someone who spent part of my childhood in Kashmir. Set in the breathtaking Gurez Valley, the film tells the tender love story between Faheem, a local college student, and Karun, a security force man from Kerala. Their relationship unfolds amidst the stark realities of conflict and societal challenges, highlighting the complexities of love in a region often defined by turmoil.

Having lived in Kashmir, I found the film's portrayal of the landscape and culture to be both nostalgic and authentic. The cinematography captures the stunning beauty of the valley, evoking memories of my own experiences there. The film's exploration of friendship, duty, and the quest for connection amid adversity struck a chord with me, reminding me of the warmth and resilience of the people in the region.

Onir's masterful direction combined with heartfelt performances from the cast, create an emotional journey that is both relatable and profound. The themes of love transcending boundaries and the pursuit of happiness in the face of conflict are universal, yet they hold a special significance for anyone who has called Kashmir home. Overall, "We Are Faheem & Karun" is a moving tribute to the spirit of Kashmir and a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the human side of this complex region.

I have watched this film in Jagan film festival . I really liked this film it shows that love doesn't have boundaries or religion it has emotion which pass through our heart and we all should respect that. This film has a great lesson to learn that we should let everyone live their life according to their choices rather than we impose our way to people to live . Must watch and the director of this film Onir . I have seen his films before He always make film which has great message for human being and humanity . Like his film kuch bheege alfaz , that is also a great film to watch . I am expecting a great response for this film .

I, Ms. Nitika Vohra, had the pleasure of watching "Faheem and Karun" at the Jagran Film Festival in Dehradun, Uttarakhand Region City, on 22nd February 2025, screening at SilverCity Screens.

"Faheem and Karun" is a poignant and thought-provoking short film that explores the complexities of human relationships with remarkable depth and sensitivity. Shot on location in the breathtakingly beautiful city of Kashmir, the film's stunning backdrop adds to its emotional impact.

With a runtime of just 1 hour and 21 minutes, the film packs a powerful emotional punch that will resonate with viewers long after the credits roll. The storytelling is nuanced and masterful, with well-developed characters that draw you in and invite empathy.

The dialogue is natural and authentic, revealing the intricacies of the characters' inner worlds. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the essence of the characters' emotional journeys through a thoughtful balance of light, color, and composition.

Each frame is carefully crafted to evoke a specific mood or atmosphere, fully immersing the viewer in the world of the film. The performances are outstanding, with the cast delivering authentic and heartfelt portrayals that bring depth and complexity to the narrative.

Overall, "Faheem and Karun" is a must-watch for fans of character-driven drama. It's a beautifully crafted film that explores themes of love, loss, and human connection with remarkable sensitivity and nuance.

The film's thoughtful pacing allows viewers to absorb the emotional depth of the story, making it a truly unforgettable experience. If you're looking for a film that will touch your heart and linger in your thoughts, "Faheem and Karun" is an absolute must-see.

I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates meaningful storytelling, outstanding performances, and stunning cinematography. "Faheem and Karun" is a true masterpiece that will leave you spellbound and inspired.

Wonderful representation of Kashmir. A well planned movie and justice has been done by all the actors. Faheem , Karun are brilliant in their characters. Words are not enough for Mir Salman. He seems to get better and better with every movie. A very difficult role for him to essay in this movie and he has performed it with utter nonchalance. The movie has all the ingredients like beautiful location, sensitive message, pain and melancholy, suspense, plot twists, and may very well go on to break the glass ceiling. Onir Sir, as always, is again very immaculate with his direction skills. Congratulations to the entire team.

It was indeed a wonderful experience watching this movie on a special screening. Although movie was about same sex relationship but issues like pollution , Caste related issues etc were also shown very subtly and artisticly. The way director showed kashmir , its beauty , culture and people are very raw and realistic. Actors have done their work very well. Im presonally impressed by the performance of Akash Menon and Mir Tawseef. As an Actor and theatre artist I can say movie is very artistic and I recommend that it must be available on some ott asap. Wish to see more movies like this in mainstream cinema and ott!!

An absolutely gripping and beautifully presented story-a true love story between two boys that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of pure love. The narrative was so compelling, keeping me emotionally invested from start to finish. The actors performed with such depth and soul that their emotions felt incredibly real and heartfelt. Every scene was crafted with care, and the direction, music, and cinematography elevated the experience to a whole new level. A masterpiece that lingers in your heart long after the credits roll.after long truly an unforgettable experience.leaving you moved and reflective.

We are Faheem and Karun' is a beautifully crafted film and touched the heart immensely

I liked the way it was layered with several aspects apart from attraction between Faheem and Karun, which was the core theme

To name the few .. Sense of gratitude towards the country and belonging in Faheem's parents ..

The angst in Zain's persona, reflecting current treatment of Kashmir students in other parts of country.. everyone treats them with some suspicion ..

I also liked the simple nuisances like opening the restaurant in Kolkata because bongs are foodies .. having lived in Kolkata for few years, I could relate to it so well

It was such a beautifully made film and the setting, photography, editing ... everything was superb.

We Are Faheem and Karun is a deeply moving film that beautifully captures the essence of love, longing, and personal struggle. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of rural Kashmir, the film weaves an intimate narrative, exploring connections that challenge societal boundaries.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its characters and their undeniable chemistry. Karun delivers a heartfelt and compelling performance, bringing depth and authenticity to his role. The supporting cast also shines, adding richness to the storytelling without overshadowing the central relationship.

Director Onir's approach is poetic and restrained, allowing emotions to unfold subtly rather than relying on overt drama. The film's visuals are mesmerizing, using the beauty of Kashmir to enhance the emotional depth of the story. Every frame feels intentional, drawing viewers into the quiet intensity of the characters' journey.

We Are Faheem and Karun stands out for its sincerity and nuanced storytelling. It's a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, offering a delicate yet powerful exploration of human connection. A must-watch for those who appreciate deeply emotional and visually stunning cinema.

I just watched We Are Faheem and Karun, and I must say-it was an absolutely beautiful film. Onir has masterfully crafted a story that is not only deeply emotional but also incredibly important. The film portrays love in its purest form, beyond gender, beyond religion, and beyond societal binaries.

As I watched, I felt overwhelmed with emotions. The relationship between Faheem and Karun was depicted with such tenderness and authenticity, making every moment between them feel real and heartfelt. The way the film explores love-both between the same gender and across different religions-is powerful and necessary, especially in a world that still struggles with acceptance.

The climax was breathtaking, both visually and emotionally. The cinematography, the storytelling, and the underlying message of the film come together to leave a lasting impact. We Are Faheem and Karun is not just a film for the queer community; it is for everyone who believes in love, humanity, and the right to be who we are without fear.

A huge thank you to Onir for creating such a moving and meaningful film. Stories like these need to be told, and this one will stay with me for a long time.

This is another gem from the maverick Onir. A poignant love story (about two men) set against the beautiful valley in Kashmir.

The story at first may seem simple but don't be mistaken as it is much more than a boy meets boy love story. Some scenes will move you to the core and make yourself ask the question "When are we going to stop getting religion in the way of things?" I was lucky enough to experience this movie on big screen while it was screened in Jagran Film Festival. The standing ovation was testament enough of how brilliant the movie was. I just hope this movie gets an official theatre release as the small screen wont do justice to the amazing cinematography.

We can truly say that Onir is the flag bearer of Indian Queer Cinema. One after the other he keeps churning out masterpieces and his latest movie is no less. It's a Must Watch film.

I had the privilege of watching this film at Jagran Film Festival, Writing this review makes me emotional. Thank you, Onir, for making this film and giving hope to the queer community.

Set against the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir, We Are Faheem and Karun tells the story of two lovers with profound tenderness. Rather than following stereotypical portrayals of queer relationships, Onir focuses deeply on the characters, allowing their love to unfold naturally. Nothing feels exaggerated; instead, their love blossoms in the most beautiful and organic way.

The world around them is aware of their love, yet it does not seek to destroy them. However, their relationship remains forbidden, set against the backdrop of geopolitical turmoil. The echoes of gunfire still haunt the valley-people push for normalcy, yet anger and unrest linger beneath the surface. In this fragile reality, can Faheem and Karun's love survive?

Onir weaves the politics of Kashmir seamlessly into this love story, making it both intimate and politically resonant. What truly stands out is how effortlessly he tells a queer story with such grace and authenticity. The lead actors deliver commendable performances, bringing depth and sincerity to their roles.

I highly recommend this masterpiece by Onir and wish it the success it deserves.

This feature will feel personal if you are a human who has been in love amidst chaos. The story takes you on a beautiful journey of two humans who fall in love only to realise it's not their time. It's not because they are two men, but because of the lives they are living.

With Akash and Tawseef effortlessly becoming karun and faheem, you smile with them when they look at each other, are happy at any chance to see or meet each other. Two boys who are bound the minute they first meet and how their hearts keep pulling the strings taking them through each phase of their story and bringing them together. Moving with them you will feel like a teen who has found love and there is a happy skip to your feet and you cry with them when you see the two lovers grow up to the reality, theirs and the people around them.

This movie is not just a love story of Faheem and Karun, it's also a beautiful love letter to Kashmir and it's people. You can feel the joy, warmth, pain, anger and helplessness of the people.

Mir Salman, who plays Zaid, has also given a great performance bringing to life the youth which is raw and even scary at times, still bringing a softness of an elder brother who is protective of his young gay sibling.

Onir has captured the air, water, the landscape, the people who brilliantly as if the essence is bottled and comes to life when on screen. You are there, you are with them and you feel everything.

Brilliant!

"Faheem & Karun," directed by Onir, is a poignant exploration of friendship, identity, and the complexities of love in contemporary society. The film delves into the lives of its titular characters, Faheem and Karun, who navigate their distinct backgrounds while forging a deep bond that transcends societal norms.

Onir's direction is both sensitive and nuanced, capturing the emotional depth of the characters' journeys. The performances by the lead actors are commendable, showcasing a genuine chemistry that makes their relationship believable and relatable. The cinematography beautifully complements the narrative, with vibrant visuals that reflect the characters' inner turmoil and their surroundings.

The screenplay is thoughtfully crafted, weaving in themes of acceptance and the quest for self-discovery. It tackles issues such as cultural differences and societal expectations with grace, making it a relevant watch for audiences today. The film's pacing allows for moments of introspection, inviting viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level.

Overall, "Faheem & Karun" stands out as a heartfelt narrative that encourages dialogue about love and identity in a diverse world. Onir has once again proven his ability to tell meaningful stories that resonate with audiences, making this film a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven cinema.

"We Are Faheem & Karun" offers a refreshing and authentic portrayal of queer love, a welcome departure from the often stereotypical and sensationalized depictions seen in Indian cinema. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gurez Valley in rural Kashmir, the film delicately unfolds the tender love story between Faheem, a Kashmiri youth with aspirations of opening a restaurant, and Karun, a young Malayali security officer stationed in Kashmir.

The film's strength lies in its nuanced storytelling and the skillful craftsmanship of its crew. It beautifully explores the complexities of love, trust, dependence, and sibling relationships through simple yet powerful scenes. "We Are Faheem & Karun" also provides a poignant glimpse into how life in a conflict zone shapes individuals, impacting their upbringing, family dynamics, and the very nature of love itself. The cast delivers exceptional performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters.

This tender and moving love story is a must-watch for any film enthusiast. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

I've never been to Kashmir but when I watched 'We Are Faheem and Karun' on the big screen at its Mumbai Premiere during the Jagran Film Festival, it felt like I was there, in the midst of the absolutely stunning locales of Kashmir. That was my first reaction.

The beauty of Kashmir and its geopolitical reality have been the theme and substance of countless media, especially films. My recall of all the previous representations of Kashmir have been either too lovey-dovey (think Tu tu hai wahi dil ne jise apna kaha from Yeh Vaada Raha or Deewana Hua Badal from Kashmir Ki Kali or even, Ye sama, sama hai ye pyar ka from Jab Jab Phool Khile) or too violent ( think Fanaa, Mission Kashmir, Haider, Lakshya, etc). We Are Faheem and Karun cannot be put into any of these genres. It is of course a love story of Faheem and Karun. The beauty of the storytelling lies in the way the two men find each other but also they know that their love is doomed. But this is just Chapter 1, giving us hope that there are more chapters to come.

The other thing I loved about the film is that it is multilingual. The Kashmiri language spoken along with Hindi and Malayalam makes it so likeable. Plus there were no typical tropes of war and hatred. If one observes keenly, conflict is one of the underlying themes of this film but nowhere will one feel instigated or triggered. At best, We Are Faheem and Karun is a compelling tale of two men in love torn by the human-made barriers of religion and profession.

Finally, it is the melodious background music and the soundtrack that adds phenomenally to the value of the film.

Set against the stunning imagery of Gurez valley in Kashmir, this poetic love story immediately reels you into another world that explores the contrasting yet converging lives of Faheem and Karun.

Brilliantly played by actors Akash Menon & Mir Tawseef - who have embodied their characters with absolute delicateness taking us into their journeys and internal struggles that surround their growing relationship with one another.

The film's masterful direction by Onir is ever so subtle yet assured, as it gradually peels back the layers of its protagonists, revealing the intricacies of their respective lives, their vulnerabilities and strengths along with the challenges of living and loving in the midst of uncertainty & conflict in a challenging landscape such as Kashmir.

The story is refreshing as it doesn't rely on overt melodrama but instead explores the subtle complexities of human connection and lets the moments of quiet exchanges build the emotional core of the film. The pacing feels deliberate, taking its time. However, the slower pace pays off with a deeper connection to the characters and story.

With its reflective and poetic narrative, the film is unafraid to delve into complex issues - from political/societal pressures to the personal struggles of love, acceptance and belonging. By the end, one is left with more questions than answers, reflecting the messy, uncertain nature of life itself.

Definitely a compelling watch for its nuanced performances and exceptional storytelling.

We Are Faheem & Karun Movie makes me realise true love happen with anyone anywhere. I enjoy this movie more than I thought I would. Even I like the mothers feelings which do not need any words to express.

That will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted . It's a great family movie that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and is a powerful reminder of the importance of hope , faith , and love in the face of adversity. This movie gets a thumbs up and highly recommended I would give it I would give it ten stars. Im thankful for director and all team

I'm eagerly waiting for second part of it..

Onir does it again with his natural flair of story telling and touching upon human relations. A warm sweet tale of love admist severe restricting factors. Characters were well written and artist well chosen. I couldn't imagine Faheem and Karun being anyone other than Mir or Akash. Beautiful locale too majestic.

The ending of accepting the realities of life and giving in was very disappointing but who ever has heard of happily ever after? 😢. The character of Faheem's mother was great with very deep heart touching lines. Will remember her.

Hats off Onir for this fabulous creation. All accolades well deserved.

I first saw this film at Dharamshala Film Festival in November 2024 and absolutely fell in love with it.

Directed by Onir, the movie tells the story of Faheem, a local from Gurez, Kashmir and Karun, a security officer from Kerala stationed in Gurez and how they get to know each other their relationship unfolds amidst the tensions in that region of Kashmir. Apart from the movie, i really liked the music score and the one of them theme song in the film!

Not giving any spoilers, if this film is premiering in your city please don't miss it! It's a breath of fresh air amidst the chaotic world we live in today.