Super Punjabi is a 2023 Pakistani Punjabi-language comedy film directed by Abu Aleeha, featuring Mohsin Abbas Haider, Saima Baloch, Nasir Chinyoti, and Iftikhar Thakur in prominent roles. The film offers a humorous exploration of societal classes, personal aspirations, and the unpredictable events that intertwine the lives of its characters.
The narrative centers on Sakhi (Mohsin Abbas Haider), a diligent accountant who, after being unjustly dismissed from his job, becomes entangled in a series of misadventures. In a twist of fate, he encounters Miskeen Butt (Nasir Chinyoti), a small-time thief with his own set of grievances. United by their shared frustrations and desire for a better life, the duo conspires to rob Sakhi’s former employer, Zaid Gill (Iftikhar Thakur), a wealthy yet morally ambiguous businessman. Unbeknownst to them, Zaid’s wife, Zara (Sana Fakhar), harbors her own clandestine plans, leading to a cascade of comedic errors and unforeseen consequences.
The film distinguishes itself from conventional Punjabi cinema by focusing on a heist plot infused with situational comedy and sharp dialogues. While it incorporates elements of romance, particularly between Sakhi and his love interest Sahiba (Saima Baloch), the primary emphasis remains on the comedic interplay and the unfolding heist. The humor oscillates between slapstick and witty repartee, with a notable reliance on traditional Punjabi “jugats” (one-liners), which, while entertaining, may resonate differently with diverse audiences. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Sami Khan, encompasses a variety of genres, including romantic melodies, wedding tunes, and Sufi-inspired tracks, contributing to the film’s vibrant atmosphere. Choreography by Wahab Shah further enhances the visual appeal, particularly in the energetic dance sequences.
Critically, “Super Punjabi” has been acknowledged for its attempt to deviate from the typical rom-com formula prevalent in Punjabi cinema. According to PakistaniCinema.net, the film’s plot is “simple yet effective,” introducing a multitude of characters in a manner that generally maintains coherence. However, the review also notes that the screenplay can be “disjointed at times,” with certain characters, such as Inspector Fawad Khan (Qaiser Piya), contributing minimally to the overall narrative. Performances by the male cast, especially Mohsin Abbas Haider and Nasir Chinyoti, have been praised for their comedic timing and on-screen chemistry. In contrast, Saima Baloch’s portrayal of Sahiba has been critiqued for lacking depth and conviction. The film’s technical aspects, including cinematography by Arsal Khan and the background score by Ali Allah Ditta and Bilal Allah Ditta, have been commended for enhancing the comedic and dramatic elements of the story.
In summary, “Super Punjabi” endeavors to offer a fresh perspective within Punjabi cinema by blending a heist narrative with comedy, supported by strong performances and a dynamic musical score. While it faces challenges in character development and narrative cohesion, the film provides an engaging experience for audiences seeking lighthearted entertainment.