Pixels to Premiere: How AI Created Pakistan’s First Feature Film

News Desk 

Karachi: Pakistan’s film industry witnessed a historic milestone with the premiere of The Next Salahuddin, the country’s first feature-length film created entirely using artificial intelligence.

The premiere took place at Karachi’s Nueplex Cinema, attended by media representatives, cultural figures, and invited guests. The film has been hailed as a bold step toward the future of filmmaking, combining cutting-edge technology with socially conscious storytelling.

Farhan Siddiqui, the writer and director of the project, explained that the film delivers a meaningful narrative for global audiences, entirely without live actors, physical locations, or traditional sets. “Audiences will experience the story naturally, without realising it was completely AI-generated,” Siddiqui said.

Veteran producer Ustad Asim Ismail added that the story draws inspiration from history while remaining relevant to contemporary social realities. He described the project as a voice for peace, human rights, and solidarity, particularly highlighting support for the people of Palestine.

Siddiqui also highlighted the practical benefits of AI-driven production, including enhanced safety, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility. “The entire film can be produced from a single room, eliminating challenges such as scheduling conflicts with actors or location issues,” he said.

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Structured for younger audiences, the 55-minute film employs a fast-paced, reel-like format designed to keep viewers continuously engaged. Siddiqui noted that it aims to evoke laughter, tears, and reflection.

Talal Farhat, another writer and director involved, urged young filmmakers to move beyond stereotypical portrayals of violence, feudal disputes, or formulaic family dramas. “The digital age demands innovative storytelling. Technology and AI are shaping human relationships faster than ever, and creators must embrace it as a tool for innovation,” he said.

The Next Salahuddin will be released in Urdu, English, Bengali, and Arabic, targeting audiences in Pakistan and abroad. The filmmakers also plan to submit the film to an international competition in France in March 2026 and hold screenings in Malaysia.

The premiere of The Next Salahuddin marks a pioneering achievement for Pakistan’s cinema, merging historical inspiration, social messaging, and AI-driven filmmaking to establish a new creative frontier.