Dawn Images

Model-turned-actor Sadia Khan is leaving no stone unturned this year as she takes up one acting project after another, the latest one being a period drama based on the 1971 war.

"The script made me sign the film. Everybody has already spoken about India and Pakistan, but this is probably the first film on the split between East and West Pakistan," Khan tells Images of her upcoming venture.

The film, which is based on the fierce war that broke out between East and West Pakistan in 1971, will be directed by anchor-turner-filmmaker Kamran Shahid.

"It takes the viewer back to the 70s and shows the struggle of the people," she adds. "It managed to intrigue me since it's very different from what we get to see these days."

This project follows her cinematic debut with Bollywood film Dunno Y2 Life Is A Moment, and her first-ever Pakistani film, Abdullah, opposite Imran Abbas which [finally] saw the light of the day this year after being showcased at several international film festivals including Cannes. She recently wrapped up shooting for the remake of her hit serial, Khuda Aur Mohabbat; and is currently shooting for the period drama opposite Diyar-e-Dil star Mikaal Zulfiqar.

"I've worked with Mikaal previously and I must say, he's very helpful," she says of her co-star. "Unlike a few actors, he never throws tantrums on sets and is always there whenever I need assistance with my scenes."

Apart from the leads, seasoned actors Resham, Shamoon Abbasi and Alyy Khan will also be seen playing prominent roles in the film. It will aso feature a special appearance by Rachel Gil in one of the tracks.

Khan revealed that she plays a character that evolves as the film progresses: "My character has a lot of variations. She's a very simple girl but due to a few situations that occur in her life, she turns into a strong woman. She has a heart of gold and I am thoroughly enjoying essaying her."

Like the film's setting and plot, the music of the movie is reminiscent of the days of Ghulam Mohiuddin and Babra Sharif. Composed by Sahir Ali Bagga and Naveed, the music of the film will surely be "something to look forward to," promises Khan.

The film will mostly be shot in Lahore while one spell of the shoot is scheduled to take place in Dhaka. Set for release in March next year, here's hoping that the film is able to live up to our expectations.