Maula Jat

No one knows why some films become cult classics but obviously there is something that an ordinary person cannot understand but it rings a chord with everyone. There are many films in the hollywood, bollywood and other film industries. For example, Indian film Sholay, no one expected it to be such a big hit but it became of the cult classics. Maula Jatt like many other Pakistani films of that era looks technically weak but it still became a MEGA hit and slowly achieved a CULT CLASSIC status. People to this day watch this movie, repeat its dialogues and copy its characters. It was about honor, friendship and rivalry at the same time. It was a unique story with exceptional dialogues and breathtaking sequences. This was the start of movies showing gore in Pakistani cinema. Acting was amazing, characters were strong. If you haven't seen this movie, you must watch it once. You will enjoy it if you are a Pakistani. Basically it's a Punjabi movie so if you don't understand Punjabi, it may not make much sense to you. I would say it's a must watch for every Pakistani at least, for the younger generation that may not have seen it yet. For all Fawad Khan lovers, it will be a treat to watch. You can then compare this movie with the upcoming movie by the same name (okay, somewhat similar name) that has likes of Fawad Khan, Hamza Abbasi, Mahira Khan and Humaima Malik.

The writer of the review of this iconic flick forgets the impact that this huge picture has had on generations of Punjabi film fans. Ask any Pakistani and he'll tell you about Maula Jatt. The review misses the irony and the point of the picture. You have to accept its poor production values, it's ham acting, and its violence. Think of Grindhouse and exploitation B movies of the 70'sand you'll get the idea. You have to also remember that relative audience of these films are minute and its amazing they even get made. That aside, this in fact is the third in a series of films and also the most popular. Prior to this was Bashira and Wehshi Jat. The film is fundamentally a clash between two "tribes" or castes who are proud of their heritage and their honour. This idea of honour is a running theme. The Punjab of this film is about doing the right thing even if you have to sacrifice your life. It's interesting how the "gandasa" is depicted. The idea that the gandasa is an extension of Jat's personality and that when forced to the limits, he digs out his gandasa and blood is spilt! Err lots of it. The gandasa represents the fury of the Jat. The menacing performance of Mustapha Qureishi as Noori Nath has to go down as one of the greatest performances of Pakistani cinema. The film is over thirty years old and the classic dialogues are still uttered on the streets of Lahore and elsewhere - "Nava aaye sohinya!" - just cant beat it.

I'm an international film viewer and I highly consider acting, logic, dialog delivery, story, screenplay, direction, soundtrack, means whatever is there. This film has it all! No matter east or west, this one is the best of it's kind. If it was ever translated in English then definitely Hollywood will make another movie like this. But if they'll do it I hope they'll definitely should give an attribute to this movie.

Maula Jat (Sultan Rahi) with very huge moustache and an axe like blade (called Gandasa) is a good guy but seems very bad. People are afraid of him but like him and seek his help against their enemies.

A group of his enemies attacks his village when he is in jail. Noori Nath (Mustafa Qureshi) is Maula's enemy and has never seen him. He was once helped by Maul (as Maula too has not seen Noori). Noori asks Maula if he could take him to Maula Jat.

Maul Jat doesn't tell him that he is the one. Maula is very famous for his bravery and fearlessness; even police is afraid of him that's why Noori wants to meet him.

The most unrealistic thing in this movie is the shriek of Maula's Bharjai (a word used for brother's wife for respect). She comes in the street and screams to Maula for help. Wherever Maula is, he listens the cry and arrives on time.

Fight scenes have been badly filmed. Film is too loud. In the end, Maula Jat kills a whole group of 20 to 30 armed men and with his blade (gandasa) but he gets only some minor injuries.

The writer has tried to portrait the blade (gandasa) of Maula Jat as a legendary thing as it was buried and Maula Jat digs it up for emergency use after many years.

Story can be described as total fantasy and fiction. The writer has tried to terribly exaggerate the old violent culture of Punjab province of Pakistan. This culture was a minority in cultures but this movie with too much violence, became a pioneer of violent Punjabi movies. This movies is still considered best in violence based Punjabi movies in Pakistan. Both, Sultan Rahi and Mustafa Qureshi, became very popular and got recognition with this movie.

1979's "Maula Jat" stands as a testament to the visceral power of cinema that can transcend decades and still resonate with audiences. It's not merely a film; it's an institution, an extraordinary cult classic that has shaped the trajectory of Punjabi cinema.

Central to this film's narrative and its cultural significance is the iconic use of the 'gandasa', a symbol reminiscent of the farsa/axe wielded by Parshu Ram in ancient legends. Much like the legendary weapon signifies raw power, justice, and a divine wrath in mythology, the gandasa in "Maula Jat" represents honor, strength, and the unyielding spirit of the Jat warrior class.

Director Yunus Malik masterfully crafts a narrative where the gandasa isn't just a weapon; it's an emblem of pride, a testament to one's lineage, and at times, a heavy burden of legacy. The nuanced use of this symbol amplifies the film's cultural depth, making it not just a tale of vengeance but a layered exploration of duty, honor, and tradition.

The cinematography, though limited by the era's technology, is innovative and captivating, drawing viewers into the rustic landscapes of Punjab and the intense, soul-stirring gaze of its characters. Every frame drips with authenticity, making the viewer feel as if they're walking alongside Maula Jat on his tumultuous journey.

It's rare to find movies that, despite their age, continue to capture the imagination of generation after generation. "Maula Jat" does just that, with its potent blend of drama, action, and cultural motifs. It's more than a film; it's a legacy, a cornerstone of Punjabi cinema that introduced the world to the fierce spirit of the Jat and the symbolic power of the gandasa.

In essence, 1979's "Maula Jat" is not just a cinematic experience but a journey into the very soul of Punjab. An unparalleled cult classic that will forever remain etched in the annals of film history.