Moor, a drama about one family torn apart by corruption, is Pakistan’s official submission to the Oscar Best Foreign Language Film competition for 2015. The film was selected by way of a secret ballot by the Pakistani Academy Selection Committee, which is chaired by Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, and includes songwriter Rohail Hyatt, fashion designer Aamina Shaikh and actors Faran Tahir and Alyy Khan among others.
Written and directed by Jamshed Mahmood Raza, the film takes a stark look at the Pakistani railway system, and is set against the landscapes of Balochistan. Moor is a Pushto world for mother.
“Moor pushes the boundaries of cinema in Pakistan. A visual treat, the film reminds us of the history of a land we too often ignore,” said Chinoy.
Filmmaker and committee member Mazhar Zaidi said Moor was selected from a rich list of entries.
“The film’s evocative cinematography and performances are sure to strike a chord with audiences across the world. My very best for its onward journey,” he said.
Pakistan only sent its first Oscar Foreign Language Film contender in 2013, an acclaimed film called Zinda Bhaag.
The final nominees for all award categories will be announced by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on January 8, with a complete list announced on January 14. The 88th Academy Awards will be held on February 28, 2016.
