This movie experience made me think about life’s questions, including those on pursuing connections and feeling connected. Joyland is a spellbinding film because of the deep and humanistic approach used by writer and director Saim Sadiq. His international achievement is successful because he knows how to portray characters with cultures and family values. Watching Joyland was invigorating due to its passionate story of finding realization in uncharted territory.

The story of Joyland takes place in Pakistan. The main character is Haider (played by Ali Junejo), one of the youngest siblings inhis family. Haider struggles with employment. Due to this, he takes a job with a Bollywood-style burlesque show as a backup dancer. He realizes that there is a lady, Biba (played by Alina Khan), who grabs his attention. Haider and Biba begin to connect and build a strong bond. The problem is that Biba is trans, but nevertheless the love between Haider and Biba grows. It is clear they have deep feelings for each other. However, due to cultural expectations and family values, Haider feels he will be hated due to his attraction for Biba. Fundamentally, hisfamily believes that men should fall in love with women and have children. While their love may be strong, how can Haider and Biba move forward?

As the tension rises with a renaissance of disturbing cinematography, it is clear that love is real for Haider and Biba. Their love for each other grows out of disconnect because both feel emptiness in their lives. When they find each other, they feel accepted.

With the role and norms of a traditional family taking a center role in the film, viewers learn this is also where the secrets of Haider and Biba lie. Haider is in a relationship with his significant other, Mumtaz (played by Rasti Farooq), and questions why his life is at a standstill. He also wonders if he is happy with Mumtaz. The tensions caused by dishonesty is where the film gets shaky with increased with increased turmoil.

Deep down, Joyland is a poetic ride that consists of frustration, disconnect, and confusion. The film’s writing is strong throughout. I felt sadness and aggravation as Haider and Biba find themselves at a loss about their situation. The feelingswhich come from love’s desire keeps the narrative direction flowing. I appreciated how the bond of love keeps growing with an emphasis on mindfulness and sensitivity. Biba is sensitive about being trans, and Haider is sensitive about loving someone who is trans. This fact does not change who they are as humans. What changes is how others perceive them. Regardless, both have a right to be happy.

Joyland is artistic in the way it shows the way love can come in unexpected moments, and with unexpected people. The film is also set in an interesting territory of different political and religious tides. Joyland soars with engrossing performances and filmmaking. This is one of the most touching and emotional films I have seen in a while. The chances of love surviving deliver hopefulness in Joyland. Four out of four stars.