Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC), long regarded as the heart of the country’s film industry, has finally begun its digital transformation. While most government institutions have already adopted automation, BFDC has lagged behind. That changed on Tuesday evening, when Information Advisor Mahfuz Alam inaugurated the full-service software automation system under the slogan “Revival of tradition across generations, modernisation of BFDC through a modern vision.” He also opened BFDC’s renovated sound recording studio, the refurbished Jharnaspot area and the upgraded Zahir Raihan Cine Archive.
Speaking to The TIMES of Bangladesh, BFDC Managing Director Masuma Akhter Tani said that all applications for BFDC services can now be submitted online. These include registering as a production company and obtaining clearance certificates.
As per Masuma’s insight, more than 20 BFDC services will now be available digitally. Tani said she hopes the new system will reduce the previous rush of files and paperwork. “Everyone who comes here is a creative person. The faster we can provide official services, the better they can focus on their films and other productions,” she said.
When asked about the total cost of the automation project, Tani declined to share figures but claimed the work was completed with an almost zero budget. She explained that since taking charge, she has prioritised improving stakeholder relations, which has led to higher revenues. Some of that income was used for renovation work.
Tani added that although software automation is costly, BFDC consulted several top companies and explained its financial limitations. One company agreed to carry out the automation at a nominal rate and its name will be announced officially soon.
Information Advisor Mahfuz Alam said the digital system would enable all stakeholders to access BFDC services more easily, even from abroad. He expressed hope that the new structure would eliminate syndicates within BFDC and eventually bring film development, production and distribution into a single ecosystem.
The move was welcomed by Bangladesh Film Directors Association President Shahin Suman, who described it as part of a broader national awakening that he hopes will extend to cinema.
Directors Association Secretary General Shahin Kabir Tutul told TIMES that automation has disrupted the long-running monopoly system at BFDC. Previously, services such as shooting floors or equipment could not be accessed without approval from registered organisations. He added that some groups would rent a shooting floor at Tk8,000 per shift, only to sublet it for Tk12,000, a practice he believes the new system will eliminate.
Tutul also pointed out that the digital system will allow professionals to check service availability remotely. “If a dubbing studio is needed in Cox’s Bazar, I will be able to see online whether it is booked or free after three days. I can confirm the booking through online banking. There will be no need for a production manager to run from one BFDC building to another.”
Some producers and directors have expressed concerns that poorly managed automation could increase complications rather than reduce them, affirming their trust on the current MD to address any issues that may arise.
