Ravensbourne University London’s Senior Lecturer and seasoned filmmaker Dr. Iram Qureshi breaks new ground with her debut feature film, “Only Love Matters,” set to resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike. The film, boasting over 30 prestigious awards including Best Feature and Best Cinematography, is a pioneering work that celebrates the intersex community with its historical representation in British cinema.
“Only Love Matters,” directed by the acclaimed Dr. Kamran Qureshi, narrates the poignant and powerful journeys of intersex characters, grappling with societal norms and seeking acceptance. The film’s release is not just a cinematic event but a cultural conversation starter, shedding light on the often-ignored or misunderstood intersex community.
As a filmmaker, an academic and researcher, Dr. Kamran’s three-year intensive research under the University of East Anglia’s mentorship has culminated in a film that is as much an educational and entertainment piece as it is a compelling narrative. The film’s journey from conception to screen is a testament to the tenacity and passion of its creators, who navigated financial constraints and logistical complexities across two continents and various timelines, from the 1970s to the present.
The inspiration for “Only Love Matters” stemmed from Dr. Kamran Qureshi’s previous groundbreaking works, the TV film “Muraad” and the series “Moorat,” which brought intersex issues to the forefront in Eastern media. With “Only Love Matters,” Dr. Iram and her partner Dr Kamran aim to extend this narrative into Western cinema, exploring the challenges intersex individuals face, such as discriminatory medical practices and adoption complexities.
Despite the taboo surrounding its subject, the film has met with acclaim, sweeping awards across international film festivals. Its remarkable festival circuit performance is a beacon of hope for filmmakers eager to delve into uncharted territories.
Starring Sara Faraj as the lead intersex character Sam Davidson, alongside Josh Simpson, Emma von Schreiber, and Matthew Wright-Kenny, the film’s ensemble delivers performances that are as authentic as they are impactful. Notable crew members, including Colourist Michelle Cort and Associate Producer Nitin Upadhyaya, bring an unparalleled depth to the film’s technical and narrative canvas.
“Only Love Matters” is a romantic drama that traverses two cultures, two periods, and the universal quest for love and understanding. It’s a story that challenges prejudices and advocates for a world where, as the United Nations urges, irreversible sex corrective surgeries on infants cease, and acceptance prevails.
The film’s soundtrack, featuring original songs by Philip McHugh and Rishi Singh, complements the narrative, echoing the characters’ unspoken emotions and reinforcing the film’s timeless appeal. The cinematography, a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques, captures the raw beauty of the Great Indian Desert and the sophistication of modern Britain.
With its 12 age rating from the British Board of Film Classification, “Only Love Matters” targets a broad audience, promising to be both an eye-opener and a cinematic gem that champions the message of equality and inclusion. Screenings at renowned academic institutions of London and Southampton Film Week and its premieres in Marbella Spain and the BFI London, UK have already garnered considerable interest, paving the way for its theatrical and Video on Demand release.
As both Dr. Iram and Dr. Kamran Qureshi put it, “Only Love Matters” is a clarion call to protect the rights of intersex individuals and to embrace diversity in all walks of life. With plans to extend its reach through social media and its official website, the film invites viewers to engage with a cause that transcends the screen, advocating for change and understanding.
In a world where love is often constrained by labels, “Only Love Matters” stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that in the end, only love truly matters.
For more information, visit OnlyLoveMattersMovie.com, or watch the official trailer for Only Love Matters.
You can see BBC’s coverage of the movie here:
BBC TV Report
Published by: Martin De Juan
