Adventure of Sundarban: A breath of fresh air in the industry
The release of "Adventure of Sundarban" on January 20 felt like a breath of fresh air for the Bangladeshi audience, bringing a film catered towards children—which is an unfamiliar sight in the film industry.
The government grant-winning film is based on Dr Muhammad Zafar Iqbal's popular children's novel, "Ratuler Raat, Ratuler Din". The film has been directed by Abu Raihan Jewel.
After the special premiere of the film, Dr Muhammad Zafar Iqbal said, "The film is very well made for the children. Pori Moni and Siam have done a wonderful job in the film as well. However, I have decided that from now on, I won't allow any films to be made around my previous books. I'll write new books, which can be adapted into movies."
Since the release of "Adventure of Sundarban", the film has become a favourite amongst the youth. Children of all ages seem to be enjoying the film, along with their friends and families in theatres around the city. In fact, adults have also enjoyed the film and have made their way to the halls as well.
Pori Moni brought the character of Trisha to life, with her brilliant performance, from the pages of the novel to the film. Her simple, yet charismatic acting will leave the audience in awe. Not once did it feel like she was trying too hard to become the character.
The actress simply absorbed the character into herself. Pori Moni previously proved her acting prowess in the film, "Swapnojaal". After watching "Adventure of Sundarban", it feels like she can become a great actress, if a director can bring out the best in her.
It is hard to imagine anyone else playing Siam Ahmed's role in "Adventure of Sundarban". The actor's performance was truly admirable. However, in a few scenes, it seemed that he was trying too hard to talk in a deep and husky voice, which was unnecessary and irritating.
Meanwhile, actor Ashish Khandoker stole the limelight with his adventurous performance as 'Nosu Dakat', in the second-half of the film. His ability to act with his eyes, along with his use of facial expressions were so scary that children will remember his character for a long time.
Actor Abul Kalam Azad played the character of a poet in the film. While the actor has always played serious characters in previous projects, this was different from his usual roles. In some scenes, his comedic appearance gave the audience some much-needed comic relief.
The songs in "Adventure of Sundarban" were also very enjoyable and matched well with the scenes. For the first time, Dr Muhammad Zafar Iqbal wrote a song for a film. Titled "Ay Ay Shob Taratari", the song was voiced by Emon Chowdhury and Joyeeta Dutt, with the music composition being done by the former.
Another song, "Ashol Chaira Nokol Ronge", voiced by Shamim and Konal, was a highlight simply because of how well it blended in with the particular scene.
Overall, although this is Abu Raihan Jewel's directorial-debut, he did quite well for his first film. For those who love to watch some light-hearted and enjoyable films, "Adventure of Sundarban" will definitely make them laugh.