25 Awards & Counting: Americanish Lands in Pakistan with a Cultural Punch

Americanish, the award-winning romantic comedy starring Aizzah Fatima and directed by Iman Zawahry, is released in cinemas across Pakistan from April 18, 2025. This groundbreaking film is the first Muslim American rom-com made by and about Muslim women, and it’s already turning heads globally. Now, Pakistani audiences are finally getting the chance to experience this refreshing, heartwarming, and socially conscious story.

Set in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York, the film follows three Pakistani-American women—Maryam, Sam, and their cousin Ameera—as they navigate the often-clashing worlds of career, love, family, and cultural identity. With themes like arranged marriage, workplace inequality, religious expectations, and personal freedom, Americanish delivers far more than the typical romantic comedy.

Authentic Storytelling with Cultural Depth

The movie is co-written by Aizzah Fatima, who also plays the lead, and is based on her acclaimed one-woman play, Dirty Paki Lingerie. Paired with director Iman Zawahry, one of the first hijab-wearing Muslim filmmakers in the U.S., the duo creates a compelling narrative that resonates with South Asian, Muslim, and immigrant audiences around the world.

Americanish excels at blending humor, cultural nuance, and real-life struggles, all while maintaining the feel-good vibe of a rom-com. The result is a film that tackles identity, societal expectations, and cross-generational conflict—all wrapped in witty dialogue and vibrant characters.

A Global Hit Now Releasing in Pakistan

Already the recipient of 25 international awards, including Best Narrative Feature and Best Lead Actress, Americanish has been praised by outlets like The New York Times, BBC Woman’s Hour, and The Guardian.

As the film releases in Pakistan through Distribution Club and IMGC, actress and co-writer Aizzah Fatima will be in the country from April 11 to 22, meeting fans, attending screenings, and promoting the film.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a film that blends South Asian storytelling, Muslim identity, modern romance, and female empowerment, Americanish is a must-watch. It’s the perfect mix of culture, comedy, and conversation-starting cinema.

Whether you’re a fan of indie films, diaspora stories, or diverse rom-coms, Americanish is set to make a lasting impact on how Muslim and South Asian women are portrayed on screen.