JOHN is the first feature film co-production of IYMS Films. IYMS veteran filmmaker Babar Ali wrote and directed this film, shot on location in his home country of Pakistan.

Director Ali grew up surrounded by the effects of violence and has made it his personal and artistic mission to see that other young people can be spared that trauma. He says, “JOHN is my attempt to understand what it takes for a human to take the life of another human being. Perhaps we can bring a change if we can understand it.” The film opened in Pakistan this past summer to rave reviews: “Brilliant cinematic style…immersive storytelling… Pakistani cinema taken to the next level!”  

The film had its first private American screening in La Crosse at the Rivoli Theatre during the IYMS 2023 Summit. The screening galvanized the audience and was followed by a fascinating Q&A with Director Ali.  IYMS Films then hosted a private screening for distributors’ reps in Hollywood. There was great enthusiasm and anticipation for the film’s future. JOHN is scheduled to appear at several film festivals in the coming months.