We Are Faheem & Karun

"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.

"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.

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.

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.

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.