- Web Desk
- Yesterday

‘The Martial Artist’ marks a new era for Pakistani cinema on international stage
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- Shazia Anwar
- Dec 14, 2024

Fans of the film ‘Parwaz Hai Junoon’ as well as ‘More’ and ‘Dobara Phir Se’ and drama serial ‘Yaqeen Ka Safar,’ are surely familiar with the remarkable talent of Shaz Khan. Known for his compelling performances that resonate with audiences, Shaz is now set to embark on a new journey that promises to captivate martial arts enthusiasts in an entirely unique way.
Introducing his latest project, the film ‘The Martial Artist,’ Shaz Khan is stepping beyond his roles as a pilot and a lawyer to showcase his multifaceted skills. Scheduled for release on January 31 under the banner of HUM Films, this film marks a significant milestone as the first international production featuring leading Pakistani actors to be screened locally.
In addition to starring in the film, Shaz Khan also takes on the roles of director and producer, collaborating with co-producers Shiraz Khan, Will Livery, and Faran Tahir. The screenplay is co-written by Michael Rose Albert and Shaz Khan himself. The cast is a stellar line-up, featuring renowned talents like Faran Tahir, Sanam Saeed, Sameer Khan, Liz Fanning, Babar Pirzada, and Herb Dean, among others.
‘The Martial Artist’ promises not only to showcase thrilling action sequences but also to highlight the rich potential of Pakistan’s film industry on an international scale. Mark your calendars for this exciting premiere!
Shaz Khan is fully immersing himself in his role as an MMA fighter for his upcoming film, dedicating himself to intense training under the guidance of the esteemed MMA champion and coach Rafael Cordero in California. Shaz’s rigorous regimen includes mastering various martial arts disciplines, such as boxing, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai, ensuring he delivers an authentic and powerful performance.
Joining him in this project is Faran Khan, the son of veteran actors Naeem Tahir and Yasmin Tahir. Faran brings a wealth of experience to the screen, having portrayed a diverse array of characters over his three-decade career in American television and Hollywood. His notable roles include the villain in ‘Iron Man’ a Pakistani soldier in ‘Charlie Wilson’s War’ and a captain in ‘Star Trek’. He also played the President in ‘Elysium’ and the character Javed, who sacrifices himself for Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone in ‘Escape Plan’. In addition to his acting prowess, Faran Khan is the co-producer of the Hollywood film ‘The Window’ and takes on a leading role in the highly anticipated film ‘The Martial Artist’.
Actress Sanam Saeed has captivated audiences with her exceptional performances in films such as ‘Bachana’, ‘Mah Mir’, ‘Rahm’, ‘Azad’, ‘Dobara Phir Se’ and ‘Cake’. She rose to international acclaim with her leading role in the beloved drama ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’ on HUM TV. In her latest project, she plays Shaz Khan (Abe’s) wife.
The gripping narrative of ‘The Martial Artist’ centres on Shaz Khan (Abe), a talented martial artist based in California. Rising to prominence after a stunning performance in a local fight, Abe receives an incredible offer from a major global promotion company, propelling him toward a career among the elite in martial arts. However, his journey takes a dark turn as he experiences betrayal that shatters his dreams.
As fate would have it, Abe’s life becomes even more complicated when he learns about the murder of his father. This tragic news compels him to return to his homeland in search of answers. As he navigates the streets of Pakistan, he confronts various challenges and unearths hidden truths about his father’s death. Will Abe uncover the identity of his father’s killer and the motives behind the crime?
To discover the thrilling twists and turns of Abe’s quest for justice, catch ‘The Martial Artist’ in theatres across the country on January 31.
This film’s storytelling is captivating and the cinematography breath-taking, transporting viewers to extraordinary realms. Abby’s journey is intricately crafted, with every moment meticulously detailed. Particularly stunning are the sequences set against the majestic backdrop of the Mayan temples, which grace the film’s finale, and the stunning visuals of Death Valley, California, where Abby undergoes rigorous training alongside a diverse cast of characters.
For martial arts enthusiasts, this film is nothing short of a treasure. The trailer promises high-octane action and thrilling choreography, hinting at a compelling martial arts experience. Tackling an innovative subject, this film is poised to leave a lasting impression on audiences everywhere.
