Sherdil (2019): Cast, Ratings, Box Office & Plot
Sherdil is a 2019 romantic drama directed by Azfar Jafri, starring Mikaal Zulfiqar as Flt Lt Haris Mustafa, Samina Ahmad and Hassan Niazi. It runs 2 hours 28 minutes and earned $29,961 worldwide. Its Echo Score is 64/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 2h 28m (148 min)
- Director
- Azfar Jafri
- Original language
-
Urdu
- Studio
- NK Pictures
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Sherdil About?
The premise of Sherdil without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.
The film follows Haris Mustafa’s journey as he trains to become a fighter pilot in the Pakistan Air Force. He faces numerous personal and professional challenges while striving to achieve his aspirations and navigate the demanding path from academy recruit to Flight Lieutenant.
Sherdil Cast & Characters
Mikaal Zulfiqar leads the cast as Flt Lt Haris Mustafa, with Samina Ahmad and Hassan Niazi as Flt Lt Arun Veerani. Directed by Azfar Jafri; 11 actors are credited in all.
- Director Azfar Jafri
- Mikaal Zulfiqar as Flt Lt Haris Mustafa
- Samina Ahmad
- Hassan Niazi as Flt Lt Arun Veerani
- Raaf Chaudhary as Pilot Raaf
Also Starring in Sherdil
· 7 moreMore from Azfar Jafri
More films directed by Azfar Jafri: UmroAyyar - A New Beginning, Parchi, Janaan and Siyaah.
Sherdil Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 64/100, strongest in art & craft (78) and weakest in story & flow (45).
Sherdil Echo Score Breakdown
Sherdil delivers a striking visual showcase of aerial combat, but its narrative foundation is uneven. Reviewers commend the high‑budget VFX, cinematography and occasional strong performances, especially in the dog‑fight sequences and the portrayal of a few lead actors. At the same time, the script is described as incoherent, the pacing falters in the middle, and editing mistakes are repeatedly noted. Consequently the film offers moments of excitement while struggling to sustain a compelling story.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 78
In terms of art and craft, the film excels in its aerial cinematography and visual effects, which reviewers label as spectacular and comparable to Hollywood standards. The dog‑fight sequences and the realistic rendering of aircraft receive particular praise. However, critics repeatedly highlight sloppy editing and a rushed middle section that detracts from the overall polish. The visual strengths help offset notable technical flaws.
- Character & Emotion 68
Character and emotion receive mixed feedback; performances by Hassan Niazi and several supporting actors are praised for nuance and presence, while lead Mikaal Zulfiqar is seen as uneven. Some reviewers note that secondary cast members are underutilized or suffer from poor dubbing, diminishing emotional impact. Overall, the acting offers occasional highlights but lacks consistent depth across the ensemble.
- Story & Flow 45
The story and flow are widely criticized for incoherence and a disjointed structure. Reviewers describe the plot as jumping between scenes without clear links, with a love subplot that feels irrelevant. Pacing issues, especially in the middle, further weaken engagement, though a few note an engaging first half and a satisfying climax. In sum, narrative weaknesses dominate the viewing experience.
- Sensory Experience 70
Sensory experience shines through the high‑budget VFX and immersive aerial sequences, which many call breathtaking. The soundtrack receives mixed reactions: some find it well‑matched to the combat scenes, while others label it forgettable and out of place. Overall, visual spectacle outweighs auditory shortcomings, delivering a strong sensory impact despite uneven musical choices.
- Rewatch Factor 58
Rewatch factor is moderate; the film provides an entertaining popcorn experience with impressive aerial visuals that can draw viewers back, yet narrative flaws and uneven pacing reduce long‑term appeal. Some audience members note a satisfying ending and moments worth revisiting, while others consider the overall experience too flawed for repeat viewings. Consequently the film offers limited but notable replay value.
Sherdil Plot Summary
What happens in Sherdil from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 12 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 5-minute read.
Spoilers ahead
In a two-era thriller that threads past courage with present-day devotion, the film opens in the dramatic year of 1965. The Pakistan Air Force sends two F-86 Sabre fighters on a Combat Air Patrol, racing to intercept three Indian Folland Gnats that intruded into Pakistani airspace. The young pilots push their limits as the enemy closes in, and Squadron Leader Sikandar and his wingman engage fiercely. In the ensuing dogfight, Sikandar shoots down two Gnats, but a stubborn jam cripples his weapon systems just as the battle reaches its peak. In a moment of selfless heroism, Sikandar sacrifices his own life, ramming his plane into the last enemy jet to shield his wingman and save the squadron from catastrophe.
Full summary
The whole story of Sherdil, scene by scene
Sherdil Box Office
Sherdil grossed $29,961 worldwide.
Worldwide gross
$30K
- International
- $30K
Sherdil Trailers & Videos
2 videos: 1 trailer and 1 featurette.
- Featurette Pakistani Movie SHERDIL 2019........Complete Launching Ceremony.
How Well Do You Know Sherdil?
10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.
Question 1 of 10
- Question 1: not answered
- Question 2: not answered
- Question 3: not answered
- Question 4: not answered
- Question 5: not answered
- Question 6: not answered
- Question 7: not answered
- Question 8: not answered
- Question 9: not answered
- Question 10: not answered
What is the name of the main protagonist of the film?
Sherdil Also Known As
Also known as “شیر دل”.
- Also known as
-
- شیر دل
Seen Sherdil?
Sherdil FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, post-credit scenes and language of Sherdil, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Sherdil?
Sherdil runs 2 hours 28 minutes (148 minutes).
When was Sherdil released?
Sherdil was released on March 22, 2019.
Who directed Sherdil?
Sherdil was directed by Azfar Jafri.
More films by Azfar Jafri Who is in the cast of Sherdil?
Sherdil stars Mikaal Zulfiqar as Flt Lt Haris Mustafa, Samina Ahmad and Hassan Niazi as Flt Lt Arun Veerani, among 11 credited actors.
How much did Sherdil make at the box office?
Sherdil grossed $29,961 worldwide.
Does Sherdil have a post-credit scene?
No. Sherdil has no extra scene during or after the credits.
What language is Sherdil in?
The original language of Sherdil is Urdu.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
