In a major milestone for independent Pakistani cinema, Sarmad Khoosat’s upcoming feature film, Lali (Redness), has been officially selected for its world premiere at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). Scheduled to run from February 12 to 22, 2026, the festival will serve as the global launchpad for a story that promises to blend chaotic local textures with a deeply emotive narrative.
A Tableau of Desi Chaos
The announcement was accompanied by a striking first-look poster that captures the vibrant, high-tension atmosphere of a South Asian wedding. Set inside a cramped baraat bus, the frame is a masterclass in visual storytelling, featuring a bewildered bride played by Mamya Shahjaffar and a groom hidden behind a traditional sehra, surrounded by an ensemble of nosy relatives and prying onlookers.
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The film boasts a powerhouse cast, including Rasti Farooq (fresh off the success of Joyland) and Mehar Bano. More than just a visual treat, Lali is set to be a sonic experience, featuring original tracks by Punjabi hip-hop artist Star Shah, of Coke Studio fame, and a background score by the avant-garde composer Abdullah Siddiqui.
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Transnational Artistry
Lali is a significant cross-border collaboration between Khoosat Films and the Dubai-based Enso Studios. The project also sees Joyland director Saim Sadiq and actor Tooba Siddiqui stepping in as executive producers, further solidifying the film’s pedigree.
Someone posted a reel from Sarmad Khoosat’s Kamli, and it took me back to the time I’d practically forced all my cousins to watch it.A stunningly layered film about a woman’s loneliness, desire, and her slow, inevitable descent into madness. pic.twitter.com/u5EuUekciK
— Laika (@_anonymuse__) January 16, 2026
By securing a spot in the prestigious Panorama section of the Berlinale, a category known for its bold, socially engaged, and auteur-driven voices, Khoosat is once again positioning Pakistani stories at the center of the international festival circuit. For a filmmaker who recently earned critical acclaim for Kamli, this Berlin debut isn’t just a personal win; it’s a testament to the growing global appetite for authentic, unfiltered Pakistani perspectives.
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