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.
Even 26 years after his death, Salman Shah and the legacy of his remarkable, short-lived, career is still remembered by his admirers.
“Joy Bangla, Banglar Joy.” These words have resonated and are still resonating in the hearts of the Bangalees since the birth of Bangladesh. Perhaps, even earlier.
Legendary lyricist, director, producer and screenwriter Gazi Mazharul Anwar passed away today at 6:30 am in the morning. He composed over twenty thousand songs during his illustrious career. Three of his songs have made it to BBC's list of twenty best Bangla songs of all time. On the occasion of his 78th birthday, The Daily Star interviewed the Ekushey Padak awardee and multiple-time National Film Award winner at his Baridhara residence in 2021. We are providing the excerpts from the memorable interview here.
Actress Eamin Haque Bobby celebrated her birthday yesterday. Marking the occasion, a post on Bobby’s social media stirred up rumours regarding the actress’ love life. Film producer Sakib Sonet had posted a message on Bobby’s Facebook account that lead to the rumours about the two being in love.
Shakib Khan, one of Dhallywood’s biggest superstars, returned to Bangladesh on Wednesday after spending nearly nine months in the US. Upon his return, he was greeted by droves of his fans, who presented him with flowers. The actor also got the opportunity to speak with journalists who were waiting at the VIP gate of the airport.
Today (August 14) marks the birth anniversary of eminent film star, Abul Khayer Jasim Uddin, popularly known as Jasim. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, veteran actress Anjana Rahman has shared unknown facts about this iconic actor.
Mejbaur Rahman Sumon’s debut film “Hawa” was released on July 29, which was hyped even before it hit the theatres. The film features Chanchal Chowdhury, Nazifa Tushi, Sariful Islam Razz and Nasir Uddin Khan among many others.
Mejbaur Rahman Sumon’s directorial debut “Hawa” has hit the theatres in 24 halls across the country today. Star Cineplex, in Bashundhara City, was filled with people, eagerly waiting to watch the film, since 10 am.
“Tumi bondhu kala pakhi, ami jeno ki. Boshonto kale tomay, Bolte parini.” These are the opening lines to one of the most talked about songs of the year so far. Within just a few days of its release online on July 7, the song, “Shada Shada Kala Kala”, went viral across the country.
The films released on Eid-ul-Azha are doing better business than the ones released on Eid ul-Fitr this year, informed the authorities of both Star Cineplex and Blockbuster Cinemas.
