In 2024, Bangladeshi web series and films flourished across OTT platforms, bringing fresh talent to the forefront while revitalising the careers of seasoned actors. Strong, character-driven content allowed these 10 actors and directors to break through, leaving a lasting impact on viewers and reshaping the country's OTT landscape.
This year, an estimated 50 Bangladeshi films have been released. Among these, only a handful have achieved commercial success. Then again, despite not performing well at the box office, other cinematic aspects like actors, actresses, and film songs have managed to remain at the centre of discussions throughout the year.
In 2024, we lost several prominent figures from the entertainment world. Though they have departed, their contributions to film, television, music, and dance will remain etched in our memories. Here are some of the individuals we lost this year.
The web-series “Rongila Kitab”, directed by Anam Biswas, premiered on the OTT platform Hoichoi on November 8. Adapted from Kinkar Ahsan’s novel of the same name, this series unfolds across eight episodes.
Anam Biswas became a household name after his much-appreciated movie “Debi”. His directorials tend to reflect his talent, and he has garnered praise for every project he’s undertaken—be it a film or web content. Besides directing, Anam is also recognised for his songwriting skills.
Kushum Shikder, known for her powerful performances in “Gohine Shobdo” and the National Award-winning “Shankhachil,” has made a bold transition from an acclaimed actress to a filmmaker with her directorial debut, “Shoroter Joba.” Released on October 11, this marks a pivotal moment in her career, where she not only took the reins as director but also wrote the screenplay and led the film's production.
Ethun Babu, most known for composing the all-time hit “O Priya Tumi Kothay”, was prosecuted by the previous government for merely voicing out his political opinions.
"I was banned for a full seven years due to my political identity. Although it may seem irrelevant, the Covid pandemic taught me a lot. I realised that one can survive with fewer possessions. Excessive food and luxuries are unnecessary, and true peace comes from standing closely with people in need," shared Kanak Chapa.
Legendary musician Ayub Bachchu passed away on this day, two years ago.
There was a period when Bangladeshi cinema seemed hopeless, both as an art form and as an industry but in recent times, the Bangladeshi film industry is experiencing a new wave as most of the films that are being released are doing well at the box office commercially. Let us look at the films that did commercially well in the theatres from 2010 to 2022.
Popular actress Bidya Sinha Saha Mim starrer sports drama film “Damal” is awaiting its release on October 28. She has already created waves with her brilliant performance in “Poran” which is still running in theatres for 3 months. In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, the talented actress talked about “Damal”, and her upcoming ventures.
Dhallywood superstar Shakib Khan has been making headlines for quite some time. Recently, the revelation of his marriage and son with Bubly, has created hype on the social media. In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, Shakib Khan opened up about the ordeal.
Colours, festivities and joy are all around for this year’s Durga Puja, as one of the biggest holidays for the Bengali community starts today. Puja Chery, one of Dhallywood’s fastest rising stars, is also excited for the festival.
Jaya Ahsan effortlessly stepped into the role of Beauty, the head of the circus and such a beautiful woman. The woman many men from the circus area of Banishanta Mela desperately long for. Sadly, the terrible events of her childhood keep Beauty constantly questioning herself. The circus and the Liberation War of Bangladesh are deeply tied together in the story of the film “Beauty Circus”. Added to the mix, is religious extremism.
Salman Shah, one of the most iconic actors of Bangladeshi cinema, would have turned 52 today. He was born on September 19, 1971 in Zakiganj upazila of Sylhet. Before taking on the name Salman Shah, he went by Shahriar Chowdhury Emon.
Two-time National Film Award-winning actress Nipun's film “Birotto” released in 34 theaters across the country today. Nipun played the role of sex worker Lutfa in the film, directed by Saidul Islam Rana.
Blockbuster movies like “Hawa” and “Poran” rejuvenated theatres after a long halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the high-expectations that these two movies created with their revenue generation and audience acceptability in the country’s film industry, not every film can live up to that.
Legendary actor ATM Shamsuzzaman was a verisimilitude of immense talent on both television and the silver screen. He won the hearts of millions for his candid presence in diverse roles and became an emblem of spontaneous acting. Yesterday marked the 82nd birth anniversary of this iconic actor.
