Azmeri Haque Badhon, widely acclaimed for her powerful performance in Rehana Maryam Noor, says she’s now open to working in all kinds of stories– as long as the central role is complex and compelling.
“I’ve always been vocal about working in women-centric films,” said Badhon. “But that doesn’t mean I’ll do just any lead role. I’m especially drawn to layered, difficult characters. Be it romance, action, or comedy– if the character is compelling, I’m in,” she said.
Badhon shot to international fame when Rehana Maryam Noor became the first Bangladeshi film selected in the official section of the Cannes Film Festival. The actress has consistently voiced her preference for female-centric narratives.
But speaking to the Times of Bangladesh Tuesday night after a special screening of her new film Esha Murder: Kormofol, she clarified that her real interest lies in “deeply complex characters”– regardless of genre.
In Esha Murder: Kormofol, released this Eid and directed by Sunny Sanwar, Badhon plays the lead role of ASP Lina. The screening marked the film’s first houseful show, Badhon acknowledged candidly.
“Our show tonight went houseful for the first time– that’s the truth,” she said. “Audience turnout has grown since the first day. There’s a buzz around the film, and that gives us hope.”
Known for her transformative journey from Lux Channel i Superstar to one of Bangladesh’s most discussed-about actresses, Badhon also revealed a long-time personal desire: “I’ve always wanted to play a ghost. I’ve even asked Faruque bhai [actor Faruque Ahmed] to cast me in a supernatural film.”
Badhon’s nuanced performance as a medical college lecturer in Rehana Maryam Noor won praise both at home and abroad.
The critical acclaim brought with it a new kind of pressure: “Everyone kept asking me– what next after Rehana Maryam Noor? I was asking myself the same question,” she shared.
“I’m grateful to my director and my team. We’ve managed to bring this work in front of the audience with heart.”