Ishq-e-Laila

Considered a classic in Pakistani cinema, Ishq-i-Laila (1950), directed by J.C. Anand, centers around the legendary love story of Laila Mujnoon. Incidentally Mr Anand’s son and his family were also present at the time of the screening. He related how around that time, another movie, Laila Mujnoon, was rumoured to be in the making, and since it dealt with a similar subject matter, the production and shoot of Ishq-i-Laila was also hastened. The movie was made in 30 days and also premiered on the same day as Laila Mujnoon.

When the screening of the movie began, the hall was only half full. But by the time it finished, it was packed. The entire experience was punctuated by applause from the audience at dialogues and scenes that were most dramatic and sensational. Several scenes in the movie also invited laughter, especially some in the beginning which depicted a budding junior school romance between Laila and Qais. It was somewhat funny having two pre-pubescent children deliver romantic couplets more suitable for adults and share ‘loving’ looks that was completely unbecoming on them.

Another scene which was a huge hit with the audience, inviting a lot of hoots as well, came towards the ending in which, after having married Laila, the Prince of Iraq suddenly realises his mistake and declares that from that moment onwards, Laila is his sister.

The movie gave us an insight into the movie-making style predominant in the 1950s, as well as the fashion present during that time. Perhaps the story line and the movie itself will not be relatable to people in the present age, but it isn’t entirely unwatchable. It did drag on for a tad too long.

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August 19, 2007