Near the Pakistan border, in Kashmir a young security guard from Kerala forms a meaningful bond with a local man amidst political unrest in the groundbreaking drama We Are Faheem and Karun directed by Onir.
Recognising a feeling
by Chris DrewWe Are Faheem and Karun
3.0 out of 5.0 stars
CAUTION: Here be spoilers
After a year away, Faheem (Mir Tawseef, feature debut for acting) drives into his village to find a new security checkpoint.
He has instant chemistry with fresh-faced security guard Karun (Akash Unnimenon, Jack N Jill) with a symphony of warm smiles and looks between the pair.
Learning Karun is from the south, Faheem says he will freeze in Kashmir. He gives him an apple, which becomes a sweet routine.
A month into the job, Karun is kind and good natured to people coming through the checkpoint, putting them at ease. His mother sends him photos of young women to marry while he texts a man across the Pakistani border.
Faheem’s angry brother Zaid (Mir Salman, Amaran) says Faheem is his parent’s favourite son, perhaps evidenced by Faheem’s gift of earrings to his mother upon his return.
When Faheem invites Karun for salt tea, Karun says another time but starts liking Faheem’s photos online.
Soon they have tea, Karun asks Faheem when he knew, Faheem responding he does not remember one date but recognised a certain feeling in himself.
Late one night Faheem and his family hear gunfire near the border. The increased threat of terrorism raises tensions and in particular pressures at the checkpoint. Locals, including Zaid, having to have their IDs checked, become furious.
Inspecting a photo of Faheem’s friends, his mother comments on the looks of one girl, and Zaid remarks that Faheem might like someone from Kerala.
In a harrowing scene a group attack Karun with stones and he has to run for his life. Faheem berates him for roaming about before hiding him to keep him safe.
Later Faheem is lightly surprised when Karun calls him “my love” but they share a kiss. Faheem’s mother sees him taking food to the shed.
Zaid asks Faheem if he is in love with Karun, when Faheem’s responds “I am what I am, I cannot be anything else”, Zaid says that he should leave.
Unrest escalates in the village with two militants hiding with a local boy and a siege near Faheem’s family’s hotel. Hearing there have been deaths and injuries, Karun leaves the checkpoint to ensure Faheem is OK.
An emotional Faheem says since childhood there has been so much death, and they cannot be together. He cries watching Karun ride away.
Inspired by the story of a gay army major, director Onir had to alter the story to get the film made and crafts an intimate and moving story of a sweet but doomed relationship.
There is gorgeous cinematography of the spectacular mountain landscape and beautiful shots of fireside talks with dancing embers.
Crucially both leads are very affecting, so it is easy to become invested in their connection.
The first LGBT-themed Kashmiri language film, hopefully We are Faheem and Karun will open the door for more stories to be told.
We Are Faheem & Karun screened at the 2025 BFI Flare Festival.
