OTT is the future: Shahiduzzaman Selim

Shahiduzzaman Selim is a versatile actor whose acting prowess spans across theatre, television dramas, movies, and the ever-evolving OTT platforms. He has been associated with Dhaka Theatre for a long time and holds the prestigious National Film Award to his name. Beyond acting, he's made a notable mark as a director.

His recent films, "Shurongo" and "Priyotoma", generated significant buzz, and at present, he's gracing the screen in two new cinematic ventures, "Omar" and "Lipstick".

In an insightful conversation with The Daily Star, Shahiduzzaman Selim shared his thoughts on his four-decade-long acting career:

You've devoted over 40 years to acting. How do you define your relationship with this art?

Acting, for me, is akin to a form of prayer. I am an artiste, and acting is my medium of expression. Over the years, acting has become an integral part of my life, filled with passion, camaraderie, and love. It serves as a profound means of self-discovery.

Many believe that the future of entertainment lies with OTT platforms. What are your insights on this?

My outlook on OTT platforms is exceedingly optimistic. I firmly believe that the future hinges on OTT, and it is here to stay. OTT platforms boast substantial budgets, a feature that's often missing in many Bangladeshi films. Moreover, these platforms offer a stage for both established and emerging talents to shine.

I extend my congratulations to The Daily Star for their recent awards ceremony dedicated to the OTT industry.

Do you have any concerns regarding the state of television dramas?

To be honest, I have no major concerns. While it's true that the viewership of television dramas has dwindled, many audiences have transitioned to platforms like YouTube. In contrast to the thriving television industry in India, the Bangladeshi landscape faces different challenges. Here, overwhelming ad content often hampers the viewing experience. However, the crux of the matter is the storyline. Due to the lack of a compelling narrative, viewers lose interest at times.

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What, in your opinion, is the way forward?

To succeed, you need a compelling story and talented actors. For instance, NTV aired a drama titled "Ma, Baba, Bhai, Bon", which gained significant viewership due to its engaging narrative and skilled cast. Similarly, "Family Crisis" has also struck a chord with the audience. The key lies in striking the perfect balance between an enticing storyline and proficient actors. When these elements align, viewers will flock back to watch, rejuvenating the drama industry.

You've ventured into television dramas, theatre, and cinema. Do you believe your talents and merits have been aptly recognised in these diverse domains?

On the stage, I've been able to utilise my talents fully. On television, I could say it was partially possible, while in the cinema, I could utilise only a little.

'Shurongo', your recent film, has generated quite a buzz. Are you satisfied with your performance in it?

I've personally watched "Shurongo" twice. Each time I appear on the screen, there's a distinct excitement in the audience. Critics have also lauded and endorsed the film. This isn't my assessment but the verdict of the critics. Nevertheless, my performance has been well-received by the general audience as well. The film owes its success to a multitude of factors, including the harmony between characters, the meticulous direction, a compelling script, and exceptional collaboration with fellow actors.