At a time when Pakistani cinema is evolving through new voices, bold ideas, and unconventional storytelling, filmmaker Saman Kamraan is emerging as one of the industry’s most promising young talents. Recently added to the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list, Saman’s journey reflects a passion for filmmaking rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and a desire to tell stories that leave an impact.

From being inspired by the visual storytelling of rock music videos, animation, and filmmakers like David Lynch, to working as an Assistant Director on Umro Ayyar: A New Beginning, Saman has steadily built a career that bridges creativity and technical expertise. The National College of Arts graduate’s work reflects a fascination with both experimental cinema and visually ambitious productions, allowing her to explore stories through a distinct and imaginative lens.

Kamraan’s Gandhara: Land of Fragrance was officially selected for inclusion in the Cortomontagna-Premio Leggimontagna 2022. Beyond commercial filmmaking, Saman has also focused on socially and environmentally conscious narratives. In 2024, she collaborated with New York-based artist Wong Kit Yi on the experimental short film The Bed She Made became the first Pakistani project selected for the Busan International Short Film Festival, exploring the intersection of climate change and fertility challenges in Pakistan. The recognition highlighted her ability to address complex issues while maintaining a strong cinematic identity. In the same year, her stop-motion music video for Pakistani grunge band Skehlaaj's See Through the Sin was named best music video at the Film Tuition International Festival.

As a young woman navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, Kamraan believes in the importance of creating more opportunities for women behind the camera and bringing diverse perspectives into storytelling. She continues to advocate for originality, creative freedom, and a filmmaking culture built on collaboration and respect.

In a candid conversation with MAG, Kamraan talks about her Forbes recognition, her experiences on set, the filmmakers who shaped her vision, the future of Pakistani cinema, and her ambitions to create genre-defining films that push creative boundaries. Excerpts:

SK: Congratulations on being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. What was your reaction when you received the news, and what does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?
SK: I had no idea I had been selected. Almost two days after the announcement, a guy messaged me on Instagram around 3 AM. to tell me I was on the list. I was half asleep, completely numb, and honestly didn’t know how to react. It felt surreal and overwhelming. It’s a wonderful achievement, and I hope it opens doors to bigger projects, greater influence, and opportunities to do more for female filmmakers.

SK: Take us back to the beginning of your journey. What first sparked your interest in filmmaking and storytelling?
SK: I think it started with rock music and music videos. I was fascinated by the way visuals and music could create emotions and tell stories. Growing up, I also loved Disney, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, films like Spy Kids, and the work of Pixar and Warner Bros. More than anything, I wanted to be a creator in whatever form possible.

SK: You worked as an Assistant Director on Umro Ayyar, one of Pakistan’s biggest cinematic successes. What was the most valuable lesson you learned from being part of such a landmark project?
SK: The biggest lesson was to never stop experimenting. I also learned how important it is to create unity on set. When the cast and crew support one another, treat each other with kindness, and work with mutual respect, something magical can happen.

SK: As an Assistant Director, you’re often responsible for bringing order to chaos on set. What skills do you think are essential for excelling in that role?
SK: Staying calm under pressure is crucial. You need to think of alternative solutions quickly when things go wrong. Leadership is also important – you have to maintain your dignity while respecting everyone around you. Most importantly, [it is essential to] never stop learning and building relationships within the industry.

SK: The film industry is often seen as demanding and highly competitive. What challenges have you faced as a young woman navigating this space, and how did you overcome them?
SK: Like many women in the industry, I’ve had to work harder to prove myself and earn trust in spaces that are often male-dominated. I overcame these challenges by staying focused on my work, building confidence through experience, and letting my projects speak for themselves.

SK: What’s one film – Pakistani or international – that made you want to become a filmmaker?
SK: The films of David Lynch had a huge impact on me. From Pakistan, Bol was a film that deeply inspired me and showed me the power of storytelling.

SK: Every filmmaker has a unique creative voice. How would you describe your own storytelling style and the kinds of stories you’re most passionate about telling?
SK: I love experimental cinema, but I’m equally drawn to large-scale productions with stylized production design. My interests sit somewhere between arthouse filmmaking and visually ambitious commercial cinema.

SK: Are there any international or local filmmakers whose work has significantly influenced your approach to cinema?
SK: David Lynch, Lars von Trier, Yorgos Lanthimos, and Park Chan-wook have all had a major influence on my creative approach and understanding of cinema.

SK: With the rise of streaming platforms and digital content, do you think the future of storytelling lies more in cinemas, streaming, or a balance of both?
SK: I believe the future lies in both. Streaming has expanded access to stories, but cinema remains a unique collective experience. We should continue supporting and reviving theatrical culture while embracing digital platforms.

SK: Representation behind the camera is becoming an increasingly important conversation worldwide. What more can be done to encourage and support women pursuing careers in filmmaking?
SK: The female gaze is incredibly important. Just as representation on screen matters, representation behind the camera matters too. Women bring unique perspectives, creativity, and energy to storytelling, and we need more women in key creative leadership positions.

SK: What has been the biggest career-defining moment for you so far, aside from the Forbes recognition?
SK: Having my films screen at international festivals was a major milestone. Another defining moment was becoming Pakistan’s first female stop-motion artist to create a music video.

SK: What is one misconception people have about filmmaking?
SK: People often think filmmaking is glamourous, but it isn’t. It demands a great deal mentally, physically, and emotionally. You have to be prepared for that reality and never lose your creative voice along the way.

SK: Which Pakistani story or historical figure deserves a big-screen adaptation?
SK: Nazia Hassan! Her life, talent, and cultural impact would make for an incredible film.

SK: Do international film festivals look for different stories from Pakistan than local audiences do?
SK: Absolutely. [Unlike local audiences] International festivals are often looking for authentic, original, and deeply personal stories that offer genuine insight into our culture and experiences.

SK: What advice would you give to young Pakistanis – especially young women – who dream of building a career in film but don’t know where to start?
SK: Don’t let anyone stop you; not your family, not society, not people’s expectations. Trust yourself and keep proving your dedication through your work. As you achieve more, people will eventually respect your voice and vision.

SK: Looking ahead, what kind of projects do you hope to direct or produce in the future?
SK: I’m excited about making commercial horror films. It’s a genre with incredible creative potential, and I’d love to explore it while bringing my own artistic voice to the screen. I love horror movies!!!