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Jama Taqseem Episode 17 & 18

A Pakistani Drama Review

By Raviha ImranPublished 2 months ago 3 min read

The most recent episodes show the emotional turmoil that results from two pairs of parents unexpectedly coming together in the same home with an intensity that is both captivating and annoying. The writing reveals a number of errors that compromise the narrative flow and character believability, even though the drama is still interesting.

The representation of Zubia, a character who was first presented as an intelligent, progressive, and educated lady, is one of the most contentious elements of these episodes. She is portrayed in the script as a somewhat defenseless character who finds it difficult to perform even the most basic household chores, like chopping an apple—a decision that seems too clichéd. In addition to perpetuating antiquated stereotypes, the idea that a professional woman is incompetent of performing simple home tasks lessens the original sophistication associated with her persona. The scene's execution seems overdone and unconvincing, even when it tries to express symbolism—nostalgia, loss of regularity, or emotional emptiness. Rather of providing subtle complexity, it inadvertently depicts a successful woman as unable, leading the audience to doubt the author's motivations rather than sympathizing with her emotional journey.

The main pair, Laila and Qais, are another example of this trend toward oversimplified depiction. Their relationship suffers from a total failure in communication rather than malice. Both parents are present in the home, but neither Laila nor Qais tell the other of their arrival; this is an unnatural and forced omission. Silence becomes the catalyst for needless confrontation in situations where transparency may have eased tension. Their acts defy rationality, whether it's Qais departing early for work without checking on his own father following an angina attack or Laila bringing her parents home due to her father's health crisis. The text anticipates that readers would tolerate actions that go against fundamental familial instinct. Believability is stretched when a girl fails to tell her husband about her parents' visit or when a kid does not ask about his hospitalized father.

However, some of the most powerful instances of interpersonal drama may be found within these shortcomings. The most interesting aspects are the exchanges between the two dads, which are occasionally trivial and occasionally amusing. Their philosophical arguments, sly taunting, and morning discussions offer both emotional depth and comedic relief. The conflict at the breakfast table feels real and culturally relevant, especially the passive-aggressive comments regarding food and home dynamics. The battle of egos, ideals, and generational insecurities that often occur when families come together under one roof are shown in these sequences.

However, Qais's parents constantly exhibit unhealthy, entitlement-based behavior. They have a deeply rooted cultural superiority complex, which is shown in their conviction that the house is more theirs since it is "their son's." Their animosity seems to be more about establishing power than it is about miscommunication, ranging from remarks about religious practices to critiques of the cuisine. In contrast, even if they are overpowered by the circumstances, Laila's parents appear to be rather grounded.

One of the more rational persons in this chaos is Laila herself. Her maturity is demonstrated by her composed communication, particularly when she explains that she respects Qais's parents because they are seniors rather than because they are his. She correctly draws attention to the double standard: if she is expected to make accommodations for his parents, then he ought to do the same for her. Her annoyance is not caused by their coming, but rather by Qais's neglect to notify her—a little oversight that turns into a significant confrontation.

Meanwhile, Qais seems more and more torn between upholding his marriage and attempting to appease his parents. He tries to get his parents' favor at the expense of making thoughtful decisions rather than making well-rounded ones. His emotional tunnel vision, particularly after his father's medical incident, points more to immaturity than deliberate neglect.

The story struggles to balance issues of societal expectations, marital communication, and generational conflict, but it is hampered by overdone stereotypes and preventable literary errors. Melodramatic characterization and needless weight plague even the parallel Hyderabad plot.

Nevertheless, the drama manages to maintain viewers' interest. The material is elevated by strong performances, particularly Mawra's nuanced reactions and the dads' smartly delivered conversation. Compelling television is produced when the screenplay lets genuine emotion and natural humor come through.

All things considered, the episodes provide a blend of incisive societal critique and poor narrative decisions. The drama may attain the equilibrium it presently finds difficult to sustain with more consistent scripting and more nuanced character development.

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