Pakistani film Zinda Bhaag has been nominated by the Pakistani Academy Selection Committee (PASC) for Oscar consideration, Express News reported on Friday.
Zinda Bhaag will be Pakistan’s first official entry in the the “Foreign Film” category after Ghoonghat which was nominated for Oscar consideration in 1963.
A total of four films were submitted to the committee for consideration including Chambeli, Josh and Lamha (Seedlings).
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will choose the final nominees for all award categories including Best Foreign Language Film by 8th January 2014. The complete and final list of Oscar nominees will be announced on 16th January 2014.
PASC member Mohsin Hamid said, “Zinda Bhaag is funny, natural, hip, and casually audacious – A real step forward for contemporary Pakistani cinema and a pleasure to watch.”
The film which also stars Indian celebrity Naseeruddin Shah will be released in cinemas across the country on September 20.
Directed by Meenu and Farjad, Zinda Bhaag has primarily been shot in Lahore.
“The story of the film revolves around a group of four friends who are on the lookout of finding a quick way to earn fame and wealth,” reported Azam Khan, Express News correspondent.
Film director Meenu said, “This is great news! After 50 years, this is Pakistan’s official entry to the Academy.”
“Pakistan’s film industry is back,” she added.
Zinda Bhaag has also won four awards in Mosaic MISAFF festival which was held last month at the Mississauga City Centre, Toronto.
The Mosaic festival is the largest South Asian festival visited by more than 70,000 people from all over Canada each year.