Exfil 2025
Exfil is a high-octane short action thriller that follows the journey of an ex-military operative who has left behind a life of war and violence for the promise of peace. Haunted by his past, he has built a quiet existence with his daughter, the only light in his world. But when she is kidnapped by a ruthless organization, his demons resurface, forcing him back into a world he swore to leave behind.
With time running out and no one to turn to, he embarks on a relentless mission to track down the kidnappers and bring his daughter home. Armed with tactical expertise, unyielding determination, and a father’s love, he must outsmart and outfight those who stand in his way. As the bullets fly and the stakes rise, he discovers that this battle is not just about saving his daughter, it’s about redemption.
Exfil delivers gripping action, intense hand-to-hand combat, and a powerful emotional core, making it a must-watch for fans of action-packed thrillers.
Project Description
This film was originally planned as a series of social media reels, shot on a very limited budget with a minimal crew. However, during the shoot, the vision evolved into a complete short film. Despite the constraints, we pushed forward with passion and creativity. The entire process from directing, cinematography, lighting, editing, to visual effects was handled single-handedly by Naseer Haider Siddiqui. While I have previously worked with large crews on major productions, this marks my first fully self-executed project, shot over 9 days with dedication and a deep love for storytelling.
Multi-Camera Video & Photography Coverage
Director, Writer and Editor:
Naseer Haider Siddiqui
Production Company:
Black Bird Films
Reception and Accolades
While specific awards and nominations for “Alison” (2024) are not detailed in the available sources, the film has been described as “multi-award winning.” Its critical acclaim is reflected in its IMDb rating of 7.4/10, indicating a positive reception from audiences and critics alike.
Further Information
The story follows an ex-military special ops soldier who has tried to leave behind his violent past in pursuit of peace with his daughter.
When she is kidnapped by a ruthless organization, he is forced back into conflict.
The film focuses on his relentless mission to track down the kidnappers and bring his daughter home — blending intense tactical action with emotional depth and themes of redemption.
Venue Management & On-Ground Coordination
Starring: Kamran Shaikh (known from Haunted Mansion and Outer Banks), Solange Oliver, and Daniel Wheat.
Director / Writer / Editor: Naseer Haider Siddiqui (you) — this is your first fully self-executed project where you handled production, camera, lights, editing, and VFX on your own.
Production Company: Black Bird Films.
Exfil is a short action thriller film directed, written, shot, and edited by you (Naseer Haider Siddiqui) — produced under Black Bird Films / Black Bird Motion Media. It’s a high-octane story centered on an ex-military operative facing impossible odds to save his daughter.
- Genre: Action, Thriller.
- Runtime: ~20 minutes.
- Format: 4K UHD, 17:9 aspect ratio.
- Sound: 5.1 Surround.
- Filming Locations: Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
- Completion Date: April 4, 2025.
Awards:
| Award / Festival | Result | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Stockholm City Film Festival | Winner | FilmFreeway |
| Thilsri International Film Festival | Winner (Best Experimental & Short) | FilmFreeway |
| TRILOKA International Filmfare Awards | Winner (Best First Time Director) | FilmFreeway |
| Majestic King International Film Festival | Winner (Multiple) | FilmFreeway |
| Sweden Film Award | Finalist | FilmFreeway |
| Atlanta Film Festival | Screened/Official Selection | FilmFreeway |
| Cobb International Film Festival | Jury Prize – Best Stunt Performance | IMDb |
| Sweden Film Awards | Award recognition | IMDb |
| Ceylon International Film Festival | Listed on IMDb awards page | IMDb |
| Picasso International Film Festival | Special Jury Award (social reporting) | Social posts |
