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Short film studies self expression via fashion and cross-dressing in Pakistan

Date
3 July 2014

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“This generation is not afraid, pay attention” – what a line to end on! This short film directed by the rather talented William Williamson takes a close look at residents of Lahore, Pakistan and contemplates their different, individual methods of expressing themselves through their clothing. From the transexual Hijra to confident policewomen in shiny new uniforms, this wondrous few minutes takes you on a powerful journey to loud, messy, jangly Pakistan and into the lives of people who are on the cusp of realising a fashion revolution. We take for granted what it means to express ourselves through what we wear, and it’s informed, intelligent films like this that are needed to remind us just how powerful that expression can be. Read a fantastic interview with William over on Dazed Digital.

A person with a grey-flecked beard looks directly at the camera. They carry a large, weathered green gas cylinder across their shoulder.
Above

William Williamson: The Silent Conversation

A person in a brown collared shirt looks directly at the camera with a serious expression. They are set against a plain, light grey background.
Above

William Williamson: The Silent Conversation

A person in a grey police uniform and a matching headscarf looks towards the camera. A patch on their chest reads “City Traffic Police Lahore”.
Above

William Williamson: The Silent Conversation

Two people in ornate, sequinned costumes dance in a room. The person in the foreground has their hands raised towards the camera, while the person behind them smiles.
Above

William Williamson: The Silent Conversation

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About the Author

Liv Siddall

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Liv joined It’s Nice That as an intern in 2011 and worked across online, print and events, and was latterly Features Editor before leaving in May 2015.

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