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.
James, also known as the modern guru of Bangladeshi rock, has accomplished unimaginable feats since he started his career with the band Feelings. Today marks the National Award winning artiste's 57th birthday.
Superstar Shakib Khan commenced shooting for the government-granted movie, “Golui” in Jamalpur today. Puja Chery is his co-star in the film, directed by S A Haque Alik. He spoke to The Daily Star on the way to the shooting set yesterday about what drew him to the project, the Cholochitro Shilpi Samiti elections, the current state of the film industry, and more.
Noted actor and Member of Parliament Farooque has finally started to talk after being in the ICU of Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore for 6 months.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, a ray of festivity and fervor surrounds the nooks and crannies of FDC.
Freedom fighter and renowned actor Zafar Iqbal was one of the most stylish stars of the industry and a favourite amongst youngsters, during the 70s and 80s.
18 Bangladeshi film organisations had a meeting at Bangladesh Film Directors Association in BFDC to discuss the formation of Film Federation for the development of the film industry.
Chokh”, a film starring starring Shobnom Bubly has been announced for release on October 1. For the first time, Bubly will be seen on the silver screen without Shakib Khan.
Eminent actor, director, and producer Kohinoor Akhter Shuchanda is all set to write down her own autobiography.
Today would have been celebrated actor Salman Shah’s 50th birthday. Born on this day in 1971 in Sylhet, he starred in 27 movies in his brief acting career. Known as a style icon amongst his fans and fellow co-artistes, Salman Shah shot all over the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) throughout his career. Yet, sadly, there is no memorial plaque or shooting floor dedicated to him at its premises.
Prominent actress Bobby joined the film industry with the movie “Khoj—The Search”. She produced and acted in “Bizli”, the very first superhero film of Bangladesh. Additionally, her films include “Nolok”, “Hero: The Superstar”, and “Dehorokkhi”. She is currently shooting for a television commercial. In a candid chat with The Daily Star, she talked about her upcoming ventures, and more.
