Film Selection at the Muslim Film Festival 2025
We are thrilled to share that ISMAIL has received its first official festival selection at the Muslim Film Festival 2025 (MFF) in Perth, Australia. This milestone marks an important beginning for the journey of the film, and for us at The Asix Films, it is a moment of pride, gratitude, and inspiration.
A Film Rooted in Resilience and Hope
ISMAIL is more than a film, it is a story of resilience, healing, and hope. Rooted in Karachi, and brought to life through a unique collaboration across Pakistan and India, the film reflects the extraordinary within the ordinary.
The project holds a special place in our hearts. It is the first independent film outside of film school for our director, Ayesha Farooq, and also the first production under The Asix Films banner. From its earliest conception, the script written in Medinah, to its completion in Karachi, the journey of ISMAIL has been one of faith, determination, and vision.
Collaboration at the Core
This film would not have been possible without meaningful partnerships. ISMAIL is presented by The Asix Films in association with HyperNotch Production, whose creative input and dedication helped bring the story to life on screen. We are also grateful to Datanox, whose Karachi office became one of the film’s central locations bridging the world of technology and storytelling, and embodying the idea that human connection lies at the heart of innovation.
Why Muslim Film Festival?
To have the journey of ISMAIL begin at MFF is particularly meaningful. The festival provides a platform dedicated to celebrating Muslim voices and stories from around the world. For us, this recognition reaffirms our belief in cinema’s power to connect communities, inspire empathy, and spotlight underrepresented narratives.
A Step Forward for The Asix Films
At The Asix Films, we are committed to telling impact-driven stories that transcend borders and speak to our shared humanity. The selection of ISMAIL is not only a recognition of the film itself but also an affirmation of our vision: to create cinema that sparks dialogue, healing, and hope.
We are incredibly grateful to our cast, crew, and partners in Karachi, India, Australia, and beyond, who made this film possible. This is only the beginning of ISMAIL’s journey, and we are excited to share more in the weeks ahead.
🎥 Stay tuned — the official trailer and original soundtrack (OST) are coming soon.