Manto

“Manto” is a brief biographical short film, based on life, works and thoughts of Saadat Hasan Manto, one of the finest Urdu short-story writers of 20th century. He was known to write about open truths of the society. A critical sketch written by Qamar Adeeb and Directed by Timsal Qamar.
Manto opens with the title song 'Khud ko Manto kahta hai wo' then Manto reveals how he beholds this world. The short film highlights Manto’s ego. When Ghalib haunts him he says, “Ghalib and I often drink together.” Ghalib hits his ego by putting him down (in absentia). The conversation shows his rivalry with Mirza Ghalib an Urdu poet of Mughal era. The film turns towards a scene of his domestic life and shows his sense of humour when Ismat Chughtai knocks at the door he says, “I’m playing cricket” while he was sweeping the floor. The film also focuses the bad habits of Manto like smoking, drinking and sitting on a chair with his feet raised through out the song. The fabrication encapsulates his contemporary critics’ views and his reply ‘I prefer my hell on other’s paradise.’ At last the film mirrors his vision and internal conflicts. Eventually he declares ‘I’m not a pornographer. I’m the history of my time. ‘ The short film ends on his gravestone.