When Screens Go Dark is an art and research project exploring how films in Pakistan are silenced by governments, institutions, and extremist groups. Through real dialogue, scripts, and scenes from banned and censored films, it reveals what was erased and invites reflection on why these voices were suppressed.

FILM CENSORSHIP IN PAKISTAN

FILM CENSORSHIP IN PAKISTAN

Film Censorship in Pakistan

RESULT

When Screens Go Dark

Ruhma Tarar
2025
Mixed media on digital canvas

Censorship seeks to erase, but every act of suppression leaves traces. This work exposes not only what was silenced but what endures. The voices of banned films, scarred and defiant, break through the barriers placed upon them. What is ممنوع is also what demands to be seen.

"This film was made with a very local heart for the local people." — Sarmad Khoosat

"This film was made with a very local heart for the local people." — Sarmad Khoosat

"Tonight I realise how powerful artists are, not those in power. We are. Why else do we get banned? Why else do our films pose a threat to them? In this game of power – we will always win." — Mahira Khan

"Tonight I realise how powerful artists are, not those in power. We are. Why else do we get banned? Why else do our films pose a threat to them? In this game of power – we will always win." — Mahira Khan

"We're on the cusp of change. The next time a film is accused of being vulgar or promoting a negative image of Pakistan, people will be bored and annoyed." — Saim Sadiq

"We're on the cusp of change. The next time a film is accused of being vulgar or promoting a negative image of Pakistan, people will be bored and annoyed." — Saim Sadiq