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.
Marking Eid-ul-Adha, 3 films released across the count. Iranian director Murtaza Atashzamzam project “Din-The Day” released in 107 halls.
Today marks the second death anniversary of eight-time National Award-winning singer Andrew Kishore. The ‘playback emperor’ has given numerous timeless melodies to the audience, including superhit tracks “Amar Sara Deho”, “Amar Buker Moddhe Khane”, and “Haire Manush Rangin Fanush”. Walking down the memory lane of this musical maestro, The Daily Star spoke to his colleague, noted singer Kanak Chapa to know more about her fond memories of Andrew Kishore.
This Eid-ul-Adha, three new movies are set to be released. Among these, "Din: The Day" and "Poran" have already received clearance from the censor board while the third movie, "Psycho", is likely to get it by today.
After the devastating impact of Covid-19, filmmakers and cinema hall owners became optimistic with the booming response to Eid releases. While 18 movies have been released so far, only a few were able to pull audiences back to the halls.
Three movies, “Din: The Day”, “Poran” and “Psycho”, are all set to be released this Eid. All of the movies have started their promotion campaigns by uploading posters, trailers, and songs on social media.
The leaders of Bangladesh Film Exhibitors’ Association have demanded an import of Indian cinema, as they fear of incurring losses due to a lack of quality Bangla cinemas. On May 12, the leaders of the association had raised this topic in a meeting with the Minister of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, Dr. Hasan Mahmud, MP. Sudip Kumar Das, Chief Advisor to the Exhibitors' association, said, "Hall owners are keen to take loans. However, if you want to return this loan with interest, you have to do so by generating revenue from showing films in the halls. It is not possible to pay off these loans if we show movies that are currently being made in the country. That is why hall owners are requesting to showcase more Hindi films, as it can help bring in revenue.”
Actor Zayed Khan was accused of threatening to shoot Omar Sani with a pistol, last Friday. Omar Sani claims that Zayed Khan threatened him at Monowar Hossain Dipjol’s son’s wedding reception.
Keya Payel is one of the rising stars of our television industry, winning over fans with her acting prowess and simplicity. Recently the actress has impressed the audience with some of shows aired during Eid.
Jaya Ahsan recently won the award for the Best Actress at the Anandalok Awards 2022 in Kolkata for her performance in ‘Binisutoy’.
There is no denying that I have been anxious. However, the love I received from my audience on the first day of Eid took away my fear and stress.
