Arooj Azam
Birthplace:
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Arooj Azam, a British Pakistani polymath in the world of film, was born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. His early years were steeped in the rich tapestry of Saudi culture before he transitioned to Pakistan in 1986. There, he pursued his academic journey, culminating in a bachelor's degree in engineering sciences. However, his true passion lay in the realms of visual effects, animation, and storytelling, igniting a lifelong dedication to the craft. Commencing his career as a CG Generalist, Arooj's talents swiftly propelled him to the role of a Lighting Technical Director at Trango. Here, he lent his expertise to numerous television commercials, captivating both local and international audiences with his artistry. In 2008, Arooj embarked on a new chapter, relocating to London, UK. There, he assumed the mantle of a Lead Lighting Technical Director at Hmx Media in Soho, contributing his creative vision to commercials for industry titans like Sony, Samsung, Nikon, and Lenovo. A homecoming in 2015 saw Arooj's involvement as the production manager for the successful animated series Burka Avenger (2013). His contributions to Pakistani cinema reached new heights with his roles as Director of Photography and head of animatic for the acclaimed 2018 film Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor (2018). This cinematic masterpiece garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Arooj's reputation as a luminary in the industry. Continuing his cinematic journey, Arooj served as the chief colorist for the 2023 movie Allahyar and the 100 Flowers of God (2023). Yet, his creative endeavors transcend the silver screen; his recent work includes the 2024 TV series The Adventures of D'Land (2023), where he not only crafted the screenplay but also directed the series, earning accolades from audiences worldwide. Outside the realm of film-making, Arooj Azam is a beacon of advocacy, championing diversity and inclusion in animation. His commitment to nurturing talent from diverse backgrounds underscores his belief in the transformative power of storytelling. As an active member of the charity organization Human Appeal, Arooj has directed numerous documentaries and commercials, utilizing his artistry to shed light on pressing social issues. With his boundless creativity and unwavering dedication to his craft and community, Arooj Azam continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema and beyond.