Four years ago, Nuhash Humayun announced his debut feature film, "Moving Bangladesh". Initially, the project struggled to find producers but later received funding from several international festivals. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) also expressed interest in supporting the film. However, the ministry has now canceled its allocation of Tk 50 lakh for the project.  

According to sources within the ICT Ministry, the allocation was approved in 2022 during the Awami League government's tenure, following a review of the script. Despite their initial interest, the ministry has withdrawn its support. Mohammad Nazrul Islam, director of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Academy project under the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC), confirmed this to Prothom Alo on November 18.  

"There was an allocation of Tk 50 lakh under the ministry's Digital Production Partnership (DPP) for 'Moving Bangladesh'," said Mohammad Nazrul Islam. "At this point, we have no intention of proceeding with this project. Additionally, film production does not fall under the purview of the ICT Ministry. For these reasons, we have decided to step back from funding the film."  

Photo: Collected

"Moving Bangladesh" garnered attention after receiving USD $ 89,800 (approximately Tk 1.07 crore) from Taiwan's Taipei Film Commission. The project also secured Tk 25 lakh from the SinCraft Film Fund and received additional support from the Tokyo Grant Financing Market, the Marché du Film at Cannes, the Locarno Film Festival, and India's Film Bazaar.  

According to Goopy Bagha Productions, the production company behind the film, many local investors had also expressed interest in the project, prompting the ICT Ministry to get involved. Producer Arifur Rahman remarked, "'Moving Bangladesh' is a film that can help brand our country. That's why we wanted the ministry to be part of it."  

Rahman explained that film production is a lengthy process, often taking three to five years, during which the primary challenge is securing funding. "Investors come and go due to the extended timeline, and sometimes funds have to be returned," he said. While acknowledging the cancellation of the Tk 50 lakh allocation, Rahman stated that the amount is relatively small compared to the total budget and will not hinder the production.  

Photo: Collected

He added that the film has already secured significant funding, with more local investors joining the project. "Both local and international producers remain eager to contribute because they believe in the film's potential to resonate with audiences," Rahman noted. He emphasised that those who choose to withdraw will ultimately lose out, as the film's value and the credentials of those involved are well-recognised.  

Director Nuhash Humayun said he is focused on the film's script and direction, leaving financial matters to the producers. "If the story is strong, there's no reason to worry. I dedicate extra time to the story and script for all my projects," Nuhash told Prothom Alo.  

This film marks Nuhash's first feature-length production, following his work on short films and web projects. He also noted that substantial international funding has been secured, and production is progressing steadily.  

When asked about the shooting schedule, Nuhash emphasized that he would not proceed until the script is perfect. "I want to be completely satisfied with the script before starting work. My producers have given me the freedom to take my time," he said.  

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Producer Arifur Rahman clarified that "Moving Bangladesh" is not a political story but a narrative about the youth of Bangladesh. "It's a timeless story that remains relevant. We aim to begin shooting next year," he said.