Bangladeshi cinema buffs can look forward to a diverse lineup of films hitting theaters this week, featuring a mix of local productions and a Hollywood blockbuster. The cinematic offerings include “Saba,” “Shopne Dekha Rajkonna,” “Udyoman Surjo,” and the star-studded epic “One Battle After Another.”
“Saba,” directed by Maksud Hossain, tells the poignant story of a young woman named Saba who navigates the challenges of caring for her paralyzed mother while grappling with the struggles of everyday life. The film, led by Mehazabien Chowdhury and supported by Rokeya Prachy and Mostafa Monwar, has garnered acclaim at various international film festivals before making its way to Bangladeshi cinemas.
Meanwhile, “Shopne Dekha Rajkonna,” a romantic drama directed by Mostafizur Rahman Manik, is set to captivate audiences with its tale of love and relationships. Shot during the tumultuous year of 2020, the film starring Ador Azad and Nishat Nawar Salwa was recently approved by the censor board and is now ready to be screened nationwide.
On a different note, “Udyoman Surjo,” helmed by S M Shofiul Azam, sheds light on the historic backdrop of the 1971 liberation war. The narrative follows Noman, a Dhaka University student who rallies the local youth in Kushtia to join the fight for independence. With a talented ensemble cast including Sadman Samir, Kanta Noor, Shishir Ahmed, Tamanna Jolly, and Ovid Rehan, the film promises a gripping portrayal of a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s history.
Last but not least, Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio takes the lead in “One Battle After Another,” directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and based on Thomas Pynchon’s novel “Vineland.” The film chronicles the reunion of former revolutionaries on a mission to rescue a young woman, featuring a stellar cast that includes Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, and Teyana Taylor. Released globally today, the movie will also be shown at Bangladesh’s Star Cineplex for local audiences to enjoy.