La Jolla, United States – March 2026
In a proud moment for Pakistani cinema and independent filmmaking, the gripping short film Screen Locked has clinched the Award of Merit in the Contemporary Issues / Awareness Raising category at the Best Shorts Competition 2026, a leading international platform based in La Jolla, California.
Written, directed, and co-produced by acclaimed filmmaker Khalid Hasan Khan alongside veteran actor-producer Alyy Khan, the 30-minute psychological techno-thriller stars Alyy Khan in a powerful performance as a psychiatrist grappling with the deep psychological fallout of extreme screen addiction. Atabik Mohsin delivers a striking supporting role, highlighting the emotional chasm created by constant digital immersion versus genuine human bonds.
The film delivers a sharp, introspective commentary on the escalating mental health challenges tied to excessive screen time in our hyper-digital era. Through its tense narrative and minimalist style, Screen Locked urges viewers to step away from devices and reclaim authentic connections — a message that resonates strongly today.
Launched in 2011, the Best Shorts Competition is a globally respected merit-based awards program honoring excellence in short films, documentaries, animation, and new media. It has launched careers that later earned Oscars, Emmys, and Telly Awards, making it a trusted launchpad for top-tier short-form talent worldwide.
This win marks a major international feather in the cap for Screen Locked, spotlighting its artistic merit and urgent social relevance amid growing concerns over digital dependency.
About the Film Screen Locked stands out as a bold, thought-provoking entry in indie cinema, directly tackling one of the biggest societal issues of the 21st century. Its recognition at Best Shorts Competition solidifies its place in the worldwide dialogue on digital well-being, mental health, and human relationships.
About the Filmmaker Khalid Hasan Khan is a New York Film Academy (Los Angeles) graduate specializing in socially charged narratives spanning psycho-thrillers to documentaries. By late 2025, he had already secured 27 international awards for his emotionally resonant and innovative work. His films have screened at over 100 festivals across nearly 20 countries, including Australia, Brazil, France, India, South Korea, the UK, and the US, cementing his strong footprint on the global indie circuit.
Screen Locked continues its festival journey and is generating buzz for its timely theme and stellar performances, especially from Alyy Khan, known for his impactful roles across Pakistani and international screens.
