In Deemak, director Rafay Rashdi and writer Ayesha Muzaffar deliver a rare offering in Pakistani cinema: a slow-burning horror film grounded in emotional complexity and cultural authenticity. While the haunted house setting may feel familiar, the film’s real strength lies in how it uses supernatural elements to reflect deep-rooted generational trauma and domestic unrest.
The performances are a clear highlight. Samina Peerzada delivers what many are calling one of the strongest roles of her career, portraying a commanding mother-in-law with chilling precision. Sonya Hussyn brings quiet vulnerability and emotional range, her evolution from a compliant daughter-in-law to a frightened, broken figure both raw and convincing. Faysal Quraishi captures the inner turmoil of a man torn between loyalty and fear, adding nuanced tension to the unfolding drama. Supporting roles by Bushra Ansari, Javed Sheikh, and Saman Ansari offer brief but memorable moments, adding depth and gravitas to the narrative.
Deemak embraces a psychological horror aesthetic—relying on long silences, subtle sound design, and shadow-filled visuals to create an atmosphere of dread. It doesn’t rely on traditional scares; instead, it disturbs through emotional truth and the haunting weight of unresolved family dynamics.
Despite occasional lapses in pacing and some uneven CGI, Deemak stands out for its emotional insight and commitment to character-driven storytelling. It’s a film more interested in unsettling the soul than startling the senses—an introspective, genre-defying take that lingers long after the final frame.
For Pakistani cinema, Deemak marks a bold and promising shift—a horror film with heart, intelligence, and something meaningful to say.
