Aliya Ali’s ‘Item’ Fails to Impress Audience

The newly released Pakistani film Item arrived in cinemas, but early audience response suggests a brief theatrical run.

Show timings have reportedly begun shrinking rapidly, indicating limited interest from viewers.

Critics noted that the film reflects a recurring trend in local cinema, where ambition struggles against weak narrative execution.

Despite addressing social concerns, the storytelling style appeared unable to sustain emotional engagement or thematic consistency.

One early concern emerged from the trailer, which prominently showcased an item number as its primary attraction.

The sequence features a dancer performing for money-throwing men, echoing outdated commercial tactics from older cinema traditions.

Many questioned the decision, especially as contemporary Pakistani films increasingly avoid such imagery while discussing women’s empowerment.

The central narrative follows Mahnoor, portrayed by Aliya Ali, a woman from a lower-middle-class background.

Her daily life unfolds as a series of unsettling encounters, revealing constant harassment in public and private spaces.

From bus stops to public transport, Mahnoor repeatedly faces invasive behaviour that underscores women’s vulnerability in society.

Her professional life offers little respite, as she earns a modest income and faces exploitation from her employer.

The boss attempts to manipulate through financial incentives, pressuring her to stay late while making unwanted advances.

While the film clearly condemns such conduct, critics argue its messaging lacks subtlety and emotional layering.

Mahnoor’s father, played briefly by Behroze Sabzwari, represents moral weakness shaped by societal pressure and eventual decline.

Following his death, Mahnoor experiences isolation, rejection from relatives, and growing emotional distress affecting her ambitions.

Missing her MCAT examination marks a turning point, after which employment opportunities diminish drastically.

She narrowly avoids trafficking before another woman introduces her to modelling, altering her trajectory significantly.

Years later, Mahnoor becomes Mahi, a successful actor living comfortably while awaiting her film to release.

The narrative then pivots toward a confrontational monologue aimed at the media, men, and societal hypocrisy.

Mahi defends provocative clothing, item numbers, and explicit entertainment by citing global media examples.

References include Fifty Shades of Grey and Sacred Games, though the comparisons appear loosely constructed.

Critics argue the logic falters, as endorsing objectification contradicts the film’s stated rejection of labelling women.

Moments of emotional clarity do surface, particularly scenes connecting Mahnoor’s success with her father’s memory.

However, repetitive background music and dated songs by M Arshad dull the emotional impact across most scenes.

Viewers found Aliya Ali’s performance melancholic, limiting character depth and audience investment.

A late reveal shows Mahnoor secretly running a charity, though its secrecy raises narrative inconsistencies.

The climax shifts abruptly into physical combat, suggesting martial arts as a solution to harassment.

Released by Cinepax Media, Item has left viewers questioning intent, execution, and cinematic direction.

Watch the Trailer: