Haider Zafar’s directorial debut Before Nikkah is making waves in the romantic comedy scene, offering a fresh take on the complexities of modern-day arranged marriages. Set for screenings across the UK in February, the 92-minute film combines humour, heart, and cultural depth as it follows Sara and Isaam—two strangers brought together by the prospect of an arranged marriage they are both reluctant to embrace.
Shot over nine days in London, Before Nikkah draws clear inspiration from Richard Linklater’s iconic Before Sunrise, particularly in its exploration of two individuals forced to spend an entire day together and discover unexpected connections. What begins as an awkward first meeting between the leads soon turns into a charming journey that blends light-hearted humour with more poignant moments, as the characters confront both cultural expectations and personal desires.
The film’s strength lies in its deeply human narrative, which tackles love, compatibility, and the pressures of modern relationships in a culturally rich setting. The witty dialogue, alongside the smooth cinematography, adds to the film’s charm, making it feel both refreshing and relatable. The trailer, which introduces viewers to the quirky dynamics between Sara and Isaam, promises an engaging watch with an array of amusing remarks from those around them.
Written by Marcus Flemmings, whose previous work includes White Guilt, and directed by rising talent Zafar, Before Nikkah stars an ensemble cast including Sasha Vadher, Aakash Shukal, Aziz Kemal, and Kanchan Raval. The film has already garnered praise at film festivals such as the BFI and the Indian Film Festival in 2024, as well as screenings in Paris, cementing its place as a standout feature in the UK film scene.
Before Nikkah, with a 12A rating, will premiere at several screenings across the UK, starting on 12 February at Genesis Cinema in Mile End, London, followed by a showing at Arthouse in Crouch End, London, on 13 February. The film will then be screened at the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford from 14-20 Feb, before making its way to HOME in Manchester on 16 February.
Before Nikkah promises to be a delightful addition to the romantic comedy genre—offering a heartfelt and culturally resonant story for a wide audience.