Shawki's low-key brilliance

Syed Ahmed Shawki started his career with his tremendous work in 'Projonmo Talkies'. Later, he announced his arrival as a director to watch out for with Kotha Hobe To in the Osthir Somoy Shostir Golpo series. The self-proclaimed 'cinephile' is all set to be a part of history with the upcoming Iti, Tomar Dhaka, Bangladesh's first anthology film. The Daily Star had a small chat with the young director.  

What inspired you to become a director?

When I was young, I watched a lot of films. By 'a lot', I mean I used to watch movies all day. At one point, my parents were worried about where my life was heading! (Laughs). I think that my love for movies led me to wonder if I could create one myself one day, and that is exactly what happened.

Tell us about Iti, Tomar Dhaka. What does it mean for you to be a part of such an ambitious project?

It honestly is an amazing experience. Iti, Tomar Dhaka will be a film unlike any other, as 11 directors including the likes of Nuhash Humayun and Golam Kibria Farooki are working together to weave an amazing story. The story is about Dhaka, where the city itself is the central character. We are working as a unit to make this happen and every director has each other's back.

Let us in on your part in the film.

(Laughs) I won't give any spoilers, but my story is based on two young middle-class girls and how they see Dhaka city during their commutes at night. I am already done with the filming of this, so let's see how it turns out.

What, in your opinion, is the biggest turning point in your career as a director?

It was Epilogue from Projonmo Talkies, without a doubt. It got me noticed, and after its release I got a call to work for Osthir Somoy Shostir Golpo. It gave me the opportunity to work under the mentorship of amazing directors including Amitabh Reza Chowdhury and Mezbaur Rahman Sumon.