Pakistan’s short film Screen Locked has earned international recognition after winning the Award of Merit in the Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising category at the Best Shorts Competition 2026, held in La Jolla, California, United States.

Written, directed, and co-produced by Khalid Hasan Khan, the film features acclaimed actor Alyy Khan in a leading role. The project marks a significant achievement for Pakistan’s independent film industry on a global platform.

Screen Locked is a 30-minute psychological techno-thriller that delves into the mental health consequences of excessive screen dependency. Alyy Khan portrays a psychiatrist grappling with the psychological toll of digital addiction, while Atabik Mohsin delivers a performance that reflects the growing disconnect in human relationships in an increasingly digital world.

The film presents a tense and introspective narrative, contrasting virtual immersion with the importance of real human connection. Its theme resonates strongly in today’s hyper-connected society, where concerns about screen time and mental well-being continue to rise.

Established in 2011, the Best Shorts Competition is a globally recognized platform that honours excellence in short films, documentaries, animation, and new media. Unlike traditional film festivals, it operates as a merit-based competition, acknowledging outstanding creative work from filmmakers around the world.

Over the years, winners of the competition have gone on to receive major international accolades, including the Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, and Telly Awards, further strengthening its reputation as a credible benchmark for quality storytelling.

Screen Locked has been praised for its minimalist yet impactful storytelling and its timely subject matter. The film serves as a cautionary reflection on digital dependency, encouraging audiences to step away from screens and reconnect with reality.

This achievement highlights the growing global presence of Pakistani cinema and its ability to address contemporary issues through compelling storytelling.

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