On December 20, “Priyo Maloti” graced 20 cinema halls nationwide. Featuring Mehazabien Chowdhury in the titular role of Maloti Rani Das, the film marks a significant milestone for both the actress and its director, Shankha Dasgupta, as their silver screen debut.
The Monsoon Revolution represents an unprecedented effort by the government to decentralise and professionalise the Bangladeshi film industry. By fostering regional talent and offering a platform for diverse storytelling, this initiative aims to reshape the industry. More than just an effort to develop skilled filmmakers, it is a step toward amplifying Bangladeshi narratives and creating works that resonate both nationally and internationally.
In an effort to understand the challenges and tentative guidelines, The Daily Star reached out to board members and stakeholders. Their insights highlight the complexities of transitioning from the long-standing censor board to a modern certification body.
With its universal message of hope, “A Rising Lioness: In Search of Beauty” speaks not only to burn survivors but to anyone facing disabilities, neurodiversity, or societal exclusion. By portraying a journey of courage and transformation, the production inspires reflection on the values of empathy, and inclusion, and celebrates the human spirit of resilience.
On a quiet autumn evening, we visited Arnob’s studio, Kolorob, where he shared reflections on his musical career, insights into his creative journey in art, and his upcoming projects.
In times of national crisis, Bangladesh’s entertainment industry is often among the hardest hit. From artistes to crew members, everyone faces hardship due to a lack of work and opportunities. Actor Ziaul Roshan has recently expressed concerns about the struggle to maintain a stable livelihood in such uncertain times, highlighting the challenges when work for artistes dries up.
Marking a decade in showbiz, Sayed Zaman Shawon has captivated audiences across television, OTT platforms, and the big screens. Known for his acclaimed roles in Mabrur Rashid Bannah’s “Brothers” series, Shihab Shaheen’s “August 14”, Ashfaque Nipun’s “Sabrina”, and Golam Sohrab Dodul’s “Mobaroknama”, Shawon’s adaptability shines through each project.
Behind this essential aspect of filmmaking are the lighting technicians, whose efforts often go unnoticed. In Bangladesh, however, these technicians face an uncertain future, as the industry battles deep financial challenges.
Acclaimed director Ashfaque Nipun has always been outspoken when it comes to current issues. He is also a dedicated sports fan, often being disappointed by Bangladesh cricket’s lack of consistency.
“Damal” actor Siam Ahmed is an admitted sports fan, whose passion translated well into the screen with his football-based film.
With the match against India up next, The Daily Star spoke with a few of the artistes, who love cricket, to see what they have to say about the upcoming match.
Raihan Rafi directorial “Damal” created a lot of hype on social media, ever since the film was announced.
Beginning his career as a model, he appeared in a telecom brand’s TVC, under the direction of Mostofa Sarwar Farooki.
Tanjim Saiyara Totini, with her potential, could be one of the busiest actresses of her time. However, she prefers being selective about her works. From her journey of “Kolpona” to “Shuhashini”, her memorable smile leaves a mark on the audience’s hearts.
After the immense success of “Taqdeer”, the director took about two years to come up with another thriller/mystery.
Amidst the many benefits that the rise of OTT has afforded the entertainment industry, the rise of proven theatre actors to perpetual stardom is exemplary. Whether it be Mostafizur Noor Imran as Moloy in “Mohanagar”, Shohel Mondol as Montu in “Taqdeer”, Sharif Siraj as “Jackson Bhai” in “YouTumor” or Khairul Basar as Munna in “Networker Baire”— these stars have found their breakthrough roles, and never had to look back.
Based on the gruesome terrorist attack in Dhaka's Holey Artisan Bakery in 2016, the 83-minute film was shot in one take.
Mejbaur Rahman Sumon's debut directorial film "Hawa", which stars Chanchal Chowdhury, hits theatres today. The two-time National Film Award-winning actor portrays the role of Chan Majhi, the leader of a group of fishermen—who are stuck on a fishing trawler for fifteen days.
