While audiences await the release of upcoming light-hearted comedy Eid films, director Shoaib Sultan surprised many with a film announcement in a genre that although important, only a few dabble with in Pakistan. Starring Ahmed Ali Akbar, Resham and Aamna Ilyas in the lead roles, Gunjal will revisit the murder of child activist Iqbal Masih in 1990s Pakistan.

The announcement of Shoaib Sultan’s film in a genre that is significant but rarely explored in Pakistan came as a surprise to many viewers waiting for the release of upcoming light-hearted comic Eid blockbusters. Gunjal, starring Ahmed Ali Akbar, Resham, and Aamna Ilyas, will explore the 1990s Pakistani murder of child campaigner Iqbal Masih.

Gunjal (Entangled) will take you on an experience you will never forget, both physically and emotionally. Caption: “Based on true events, this film stars Ahmed Ali Akbar, Resham, Aamna Ilyas, and Syed Muhammad Ali as journalist Shahbaz Bhatti, who investigates the murder of child activist Irfan Masih in 1990s Pakistan.”

The poster for the film features the Parizaad actor facing directly into the camera. while wearing an acid-washed denim shirt, a moustache, and carrying a brown leather bag with the tagline, “The truth can be twisted.” It appears as though Ahmed Ali Akbar is the reporter looking into this.

Nighat Akbar Shah of Adur Productions has produced a film called Gunjal. The makers are calling it a “must-see” for its focus on human rights, justice, and optimism. Gunjal (Entangled) is a film that everyone cares about making the world a better place. We should watch because of its messages of human rights, fairness, and optimism. Don’t miss the release date, and get ready to feel something!” they urged. Samiya Mumtaz and Ahmed Ali Butt also star in the movie.

At the age of five, Masih took a job as a debt slave in a carpet mill. After being freed from slavery at the age of 10, he became an icon in the fight to end child labour by aiding the emancipation of other young slaves. Ahmed Ali Akbar family is demanding justice for him here. In 2009, the United States Congress established an annual prize in his honour for those working to eliminate child labour.