Breaking the usual rule of up to two films being released on the same day, three highly anticipated Bangladeshi films are set to hit cinemas this Friday. While typically, only two films can be released on non-festival days, the industry is making an exception. This week, audiences can look forward to Mostofa Sarwar Farooki's political satire "840: The Great Bangla Democracy Pvt. Ltd", Belal Sani's sci-fi horror "Danger Zone," and Shabnam Parvin's comedy "Hurmoti".

Farooki's latest film, "840," is a spiritual sequel to his 2007 TV series "420." In that series, Farooki explored the rise and fall of Bangladeshi politicians. Fast forward 17 years, and he's back with "840: The Great Bangla Democracy Pvt. Ltd", where the story unfolds around the central character portrayed by Nasir Uddin Khan, a politician who wins an election with an absurd 103% of the vote, sets fire to a slum for political gain, and even launders money to buy property in Dubai. His corrupt reign, however, doesn't last forever as Nasir eventually flees the country. The film stars Nasir Uddin Khan, alongside a talented cast including Marzuk Russell, Fazlur Rahman Babu, Zakia Bari Mamo, and Ashutosh Sujan.

Meanwhile, after years in the making, "Danger Zone," a pure horror movie with sci-fi elements, is finally seeing the light of day. Filming wrapped up in 2019, but the movie, for reasons unknown, was delayed until now. Directed by Belal Sani, the film stars Bappy Chowdhury and Falguni Rahman Jolly as two friends embarking on a journey from which none return. Unlike many modern horror films that mix in comedy, "Danger Zone" is all about terror. "It's not heavy on VFX; most of the scenes were shot using practical effects," said Bappy. The supporting cast includes DJ Sohel, Meherima, and Shimanto.

On a lighter note, "Hurmoti" brings pure comedic relief. Directed, produced, and headlined by actress Shabnam Parvin, this film promises to make audiences laugh from start to finish. Parvin, a seasoned actress, not only stars in the title role but also financed the film by selling her family home, a sacrifice she's made more than once for her passion projects. "I wanted to create a film that would make audiences forget their worries and leave them smiling," said Parvin. Her co-stars include veteran actors Dilara Zaman, Mahmudul Islam Mithu, and Soni Rahman.

In terms of sheer numbers, "840" is only screening in 15 theatres across the country, while "Danger Zone" will be released in 25. However, "840" is being deliberately limited to select, high-quality theatres, according to sources close to the film's production. There's been no official comment from either Farooki or producer Nusrat Imrose Tisha regarding the smaller number of screenings, but it appears to be a strategic decision rather than a lack of demand.

"840" will be playing at Star Cineplex locations in Dhaka and Chattogram, as well as Blockbuster Cinemas in Dhaka, Shyamoli Cinema, Grand Movie Theatre in Sylhet, Cinescope in Narayanganj, Silver Screen in Chattogram, Sugandha Cinema, and several others. The film has already generated significant buzz following its trailer and premiere screening, where audiences were captivated by Farooki's portrayal of Bangladesh's political landscape through the lens of a fictional district.

In a statement about the film, Farooki said, "As you can gather from the trailer, this film shows what Bangladesh was like under the previous government. We wanted to explore that through the microcosm of a small district town. You could call it an X-ray report of the Awami regime. I believe there will be more 'X-ray reports' to come."

With a smaller release but high anticipation, "840" is set to challenge the box office performance of "Danger Zone," which appeals to a broader, mainstream audience. And then there's "Hurmoti," poised to bring light-hearted entertainment to those seeking comedy amidst the darker, more serious offerings.

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