With a career marked by powerful storytelling and compelling direction, Aehsun Talish has earned a reputation as one of Pakistan’s most celebrated drama directors. His upcoming project Sher features Danish Taimoor and Sarah Khan. It is written by Zanjabeel Asim Shah, and produced by ARY Digital and promises to be an emotional rollercoaster wrapped in a visually stunning package.
Fashion Times caught up with the director to learn more about Sher, his approach towards drama, and what audiences can expect from this much-anticipated drama.
Q) What drew you to the story of Sher, and why did you feel it needed to be told?
A) I’ve come across many stories of this nature, but this was the first time I actually had the chance to bring one to life on screen. It was a challenge for me something fresh and different from what I had done before. Additionaly, the cast I was offered made it even more exciting. It gave me the passion to take it on wholeheartedly.
Q) You’re known for drawing layered performances from your actors. How was it working with Danish Taimoor and Sarah Khan in their first on-screen pairing?
A) Danish and Sarah’s first collaboration was a pleasant surprise for me as well. Both of them are phenomenal performers. Danish naturally adds layers to his character once he reads the script, he understands what to do. For a director, that makes things much easier; you just focus on capturing the best possible shots. Sarah, on the other hand, is very natural. It didn’t take much effort to draw out what I needed from her. It was truly a pleasure working with both of them.
Q) As a director, how do you balance giving actors creative freedom while keeping the narrative focused?
A) Drama making is a team effort purely. I’m always open to ideas from my actors, and I expect the same openness from them. It’s a reciprocal process. Direction isn’t a one-man job. Everyone plays a role, from the lighting team to the cameraman to the actors. If one element falls out of sync say, the lighting isn’t right for an emotional scene the impact is lost. So yes, it’s a collective art form, and everyone’s involvement matters.
Q) What was the most creatively fulfilling part of directing Sher?
A) Honestly, every part of it was creatively demanding. Sher isn’t your typical, run-of-the-mill drama. It required delicate handling at every stage. Whether or not I’ve done it justice we’ll have to wait and see but I gave it my best.
Q) What challenges did you face during production, and how did the team overcome them?
A) Every project comes with its own unique set of challenges. With each story, you’re working with a new perspective, a new tone, and new emotions to convey. I treat every single day on set as a fresh challenge, and that’s how we tackle it as it comes.
Q) With anticipation building, what do you hope audiences will connect with most deeply in Sher?
A) Definitely the pairing of Danish and Sarah. That’s the unique selling point of Sher. I think audiences will be drawn in by their chemistry and presence on screen.
Q) Lastly, any message for your fans?
A) Keep watching. Keep criticizing. Your feedback pushes us to do better.
