The third Bangladesh Film Festival, held at the Tharangani Cinema, at the National Film Corporation, has been a captivating celebration of cinematic excellence, cultural exchange, and thought-provoking storytelling. Organized under the facilitation of Tareq Md Ariful Islam, the High Commissioner for the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Sri Lanka, the festival has brought together film enthusiasts and industry professionals to witness the rich tapestry of Bangladesh’s film landscape.
Opening Night: “Rehana Maryam Noor”
The festival commenced with the screening of “Rehana Maryam Noor,” directed by Abdullah Mohammad Saad. The film revolves around the moral dilemma faced by an Assistant Professor at a medical college who becomes a witness to a sexual assault involving individuals she knows intimately. The gripping narrative explores the complexities of ethics, placing the audience in a moral quandary. This powerful storytelling set the tone for an eventful festival.
In the year 2021, this exceptional film garnered prestigious recognition when it earned a spot in the esteemed Un Certain Regard section at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. Remarkably, it marked the first time that a Bangladeshi film had ever been featured in this illustrious category. Beyond its Cannes achievement, the film also secured the honor of representing Bangladesh as the country’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 94th Academy Awards. Additionally, “Rehana Maryam Noor” clinched a pair of accolades at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, with director Abdullah Mohammad Saad earning the esteemed Jury Grand Prize, and the talented actress Azmeri Haque Badhon receiving recognition in the Best Performance by an Actress category.
Day Two: “Raat Jaga Phool” and “Nona Joler Kabbo”
The second day of the festival featured two remarkable Bangladeshi films. “Raat Jaga Phool” by Mir Sabbir and “Nona Joler Kabbo” by Rezwan Shahriar captivated the audience with their unique narratives and artistic brilliance. These films demonstrated the diversity and depth of talent within the Bangladeshi film industry.
Closing Day Highlights: “Damal” and “No Doria”
The final day of the festival promises to be just as exciting as the previous two days. Two captivating films are set to be screened:
“Damal” (2022) – Directed by Raihan Rafi: “Damal” is a compelling story that revolves around the formation of the independent Bangla Football team during Bangladesh’s war of liberation in 1971. Beyond being a sports drama, the film symbolizes the spirit of independence and nationalism, serving as an inspiration to generations.
Featuring Sariful Razz, Bidya Sinha Saha Mim, Siam Ahmed, and Shahnaz Sumi in lead roles, “Damal” offers a fictionalized narrative inspired by the Shadhin Bangla football team. This team played a crucial role in raising international awareness and support for the liberation war by playing friendly matches across India.
The film has received high praise from both audiences and critics, particularly for its exceptional cinematography.
Speaking about the film, director Raihan Rafi stated, “Damal is a complete exception in the genre of liberation war films. It is a large-scale film that will showcase the greatness of our liberation war to audiences worldwide.”
“No Dorai” (2019) – Directed by Taneem Rahman Angshu: Set against the backdrop of Cox’s Bazar, “No Dorai” is based on the life of a young Bangladeshi girl who defies societal norms to pursue her dream of becoming a surfer. The film, which means “not afraid” in the Chittagonian dialect, is the first Bangladeshi surfing film. Starring Sunerah Binte Kamal and Sariful Razz in lead roles, “No Dorai” explores themes of courage, determination, and breaking free from traditional constraints. The film received widespread acclaim and jointly won the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Film of 2019.
The third Bangladesh Film Festival has been a showcase of extraordinary storytelling and filmmaking prowess from the nation. These films have not only entertained but also shed light on historical and societal issues, captivating audiences and critics alike. As the festival comes to a close, it leaves a lasting impression of the vibrant Bangladeshi film industry and its potential to resonate with global audiences.
