Entertainment Education Programs

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Pakistan: The Only Way

The Only Way is a video concerned with safe motherhood, family well-being and population in Pakistan. Its dramatic approach and its real locations, its use of age old proverbs, beliefs and wisdom are designed to speak directly to rural people, but at the same time to appeal to the widest possible audience in Pakistan. Its goal is to make couple think about, discuss, and decide upon the best course of action for the welfare of their children, their families and each other.

The Only Way grew out of discussions between The Filmmakers, a group specializing in development communication, and the Pakistan Ministry of Population Welfare. These agencies together with the Johns Hopkins University Population Communication Services (JHU/PCS) and USAID/Pakistan worked in close partnership on the project. JHU/PCS assisted with its wide experience in producing research-based, culturally appropriate dramas on the subject of population and family planning.

The Story
In The Only Way Noor Muhammad is taking a journey back to his native village to attend his daughter's wedding. Twenty five years ago he migrated to the city, looking for work. Noor, now in his sixties, is reflecting on the path he has taken, the choices he has made. To the sound and rhythm of the train in which he travels, Noor remembers his lost lands, his young bride, his move to the city, and his attempt to find the best for his family. His memories are deeply personal, yet they evoke the shared memories of a generation. He and his wife Sakina, after having too many children too soon, confront the consequences of the choices made by many in Pakistan. Noor's decisions determined his fugure as Pakistan's choices will determine her future.

The Writer
Scriptwriter Munnoo Bhai is a daily columnist in a national newspaper. He has been writing for the last 30 years. He is best known for his insight and understanding of problems and situations of ordinary people in Pakistan. His writings touch their lives and are very close to their hearts.

The Director
Director Shireen Pasha is a renowned documentary filmmaker. She is recognized for her sensitive handling of socially relevant themes, and meaningful and provicative visuals. Her films have won numerous national and international awards.

The Only Way was made with the support of the Ministry of Population Welfare, the Center for Communication Programs, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health Population Communication Services (JHU/PCS), and USAID/Pakistan. Produced and directed by The Filmmakers, 23 Cooper Road, Lahore. Pakistan.

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