Zarrar Kahn, whose debut feature “In Flames” screened at Cannes and Toronto, is bringing a new project to the Toronto International Film Festival’s Short Cuts program. The film, titled “The Lion Does Not Concern Himself,” is a romantic comedy that examines contemporary online culture through the lens of a genre focused on relationships.
The narrative centers on a fitness instructor who has adopted a persona as a controversial podcaster, viewing this identity as central to his cultural standing. His worldview shifts when a new gym client enters his life, developing into a romantic connection. The project originated from writer and lead actor Mohammad Ali Hashmi, a Toronto resident and recurring collaborator with Kahn. Hashmi drew inspiration from observations made upon joining a gym, specifically noting exposure to incel-related content and how easily fitness community members could become advocates of online personality figures associated with manosphere ideology.
Kahn elected to approach the subject matter through a comedic lens rather than through drama or critique. The film’s title references a phrase popularized through internet culture, particularly on social media platforms, and functions as an ironic commentary on manosphere discourse. According to Kahn’s director’s statement, the project addresses gender dynamics, online isolation, and the fundamental absurdity inherent in romantic relationships.
Production occurred at a gym location in Toronto’s Queen West neighborhood. The film is produced by Lauren Saarimaki through POV Film, with Mina Husain of Suno Studios serving as executive producer. CityLights Media manages worldwide sales and festival distribution. The company is also handling Kahn’s subsequent project, a climate-themed thriller titled “Suffering Is Optional,” featuring actor Iman Vellani, which is scheduled to begin filming in early 2027.
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