Superstar Mahira Khan has recently reflected on the reception of her 2017 film Verna during a session at Jashn-e-Rekhta in Dubai, addressing why the project did not resonate with the audience.
Directed by Shoaib Mansoor, the film centers on a rape survivor who seeks retribution. Khan admitted that the narrative choices contributed to the film’s commercial failure.
“I did a film, Verna, written by Shoaib Mansoor, in which the lead character was a rape victim. The story didn’t perform well, and I feel like the reason it didn’t perform well is because it had some problems, and I take full responsibility for it,” Khan stated.
The actor explained that the plot required her character to return to her abuser to gather evidence, a creative decision that faced resistance from viewers.
Khan shared Mansoor’s perspective on the public reaction, stating, “Shoaib sahab said that this concept was difficult for the men and women of our country to digest.” She added that portraying the character was a difficult experience.
The actor’s retrospective remarks triggered a debate online, with social media users expressing divided opinions on the film’s merits and its controversial plot point.
Several viewers defended the film, praising its execution and subject matter. One user commented, “The film was outstanding, to be honest. I have never seen such a film in Pakistani media”.
Another viewer expressed regret over its box office performance, writing, “Sad that Verna was a flop even though it was a great movie.” Others labeled it “the best movie ever” and called it “a gem produced by Lollywood,” praising the writing, acting, and direction.
Some commentators suggested that the film was ahead of its time, with one user noting, “Verna should release again; the audience was not ready for the movie at that time”.
However, others agreed with the criticism regarding the narrative trajectory. One individual countered Mansoor’s assessment, stating, “She brilliantly acted in that role, but of course, I also can’t find it justifiable to go back to your rapist with the intention just to collect evidence. That was really not about ‘hazam hona'”.
Released in 2017, Verna is a social drama film written, directed, and produced by Shoaib Mansoor under the banner of Shoman Productions. The feature stars Khan in the leading role alongside debutants Haroon Shahid, Zarrar Khan, and Naimal Khawar.
