On September 23, the Aurora Film Circuit will present a special screening of THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS as part of Grand Opening celebrations at Aurora Town Square. Directed by Fawzia Mirza, this captivating film delves into the complex relationship between a queer Muslim grad student, Azra, and her mother, Mariam, weaving together themes of cultural expectation, individual desires, and the powerful bonds of family.
The story begins in 1999, when the sudden death of her father sends Azra, played by Amrit Kaur, back to her ancestral home in Pakistan. There, her mother Mariam, portrayed by veteran actor Nimra Bucha, expects her to fulfill the role of the perfect grieving daughter. However, as the narrative unfolds, the film takes viewers back to Mariam’s own life in Karachi 30 years earlier, revealing the shared experiences and passions that connect mother and daughter, particularly their mutual admiration for Bollywood star Sharmila Tagore.
Kaur delivers a remarkable dual performance, portraying both the present-day Azra and the younger Mariam, capturing the nuanced dynamics of two women navigating their identities within the constraints of cultural tradition. Bucha’s portrayal of the older Mariam is equally compelling, offering glimpses of the vibrant woman she once was and the complexities of the person she has become. Together, these performances create a rich and emotionally resonant exploration of generational and cultural divides.
This screening is one of the many highlights of Aurora Town Square’s Grand Opening celebrations, which run from September 21 to October 13. The event features a diverse lineup of performances, screenings, and activities that showcase arts, culture, and heritage.
THE QUEEN OF MY DREAMS offers an engaging start to Grand Opening celebrations, inviting audiences to reflect on the ties that bind us, across generations and cultural expectations. Tickets are on sale at aurora.ca/WhatsOn
