Nabeel Qureshi’s latest film Zombeid is receiving praise for introducing a fresh genre to Pakistani cinema and showcasing the industry’s growing creative ambition. The zombie thriller, co-written by Fizza Ali Mirza, delivers a unique blend of suspense, action and horror while offering audiences a cinematic experience rarely seen in local productions.
The story centers on Wali, a competitive bodybuilder whose life takes a dramatic turn after a tragic incident linked to rivalry and substance abuse. As he attempts to rebuild his career at the Muscle Factory gym, a dangerous chain of events begins when an illegal steroid injection transforms a gym member into a zombie, triggering a fight for survival.
Fahad Mustafa leads the cast with a powerful performance that combines physical intensity and emotional depth, while Mehwish Hayat brings confidence and charm to her role. Meanwhile, Dodi Khan has emerged as one of the film’s biggest surprises, earning praise for portraying a compelling and memorable antagonist with impressive screen presence.
In addition, the film stands out for its technical quality, particularly its visual effects, makeup design and practical horror elements. The production team successfully creates convincing zombie transformations, while the confined gym setting enhances suspense and keeps the narrative focused, energetic and engaging throughout the film.
The action sequences remain sharp and well-executed, helping maintain a steady pace from beginning to end. Furthermore, the soundtrack complements the story without disrupting momentum, allowing the film to balance entertainment and storytelling more effectively than many traditional commercial releases.
Critics and moviegoers view Zombeid as an important step forward for Pakistani cinema because it demonstrates confidence in exploring new genres. By combining strong performances, ambitious filmmaking and solid technical execution, the film highlights the industry’s potential and encourages audiences to support innovative local productions.