With Eid-ul-Azha less than two weeks away, uncertainty still surrounds the final list of films set for release during one of the busiest periods for Bangladesh’s film industry.
Although around 10 films were announced for Eid release at different times, industry insiders now believe the number could fall significantly. Major distributors in Dhallywood estimate that only four films may ultimately make it to cinemas, while six or seven productions are still attempting to secure release dates.
Among the frontrunners are ‘Rockstar’, ‘Roid’ and ‘Nakfuler Kabbo’. Other films still in contention include ‘Masud Rana’, ‘Pinik’, ‘Malik’ and ‘Officer’.
Promotional campaigns are already underway for Rockstar and Roid. Directed by Azman Rusho, Rockstar stars Shakib Khan alongside Sabila Nur and Tangia Zaman Methila.
The film’s teaser, poster and songs have already been released, while promotional activities have also extended to cricket grounds.
Rusho said the film would be submitted to the Censor Certification Board next week.
Meanwhile, director Mezbaur Rahman Suman is preparing to release Roid following the success of ‘Hawa’. The film stars Mostafizur Noor Imran and Nazifa Tushi. Its teaser, poster and two songs have already generated attention online.
The team plans to begin promotional visits to educational institutions across the country from May 17 and intends to approach the censor board next week.
The release of Malik, starring Arifin Shuvoo and Bidya Sinha Saha Mim, remains uncertain. Director Saif Chandan said more post-production work was needed before a final decision could be made.
“We may have to wait a little longer,” he said.
Jazz Multimedia’s Masud Rana, directed by Saikat Nasir, is expected to be submitted for censor clearance by May 20. The film stars Russell Rana and Puja Cherry.
Another repeatedly delayed project, Pinik, starring Ador Azad and Shobnom Bubly, is also aiming for an Eid release despite limited promotional activity so far.
Director Zahid Jewel said, “We are not moving away from the release of the film in any way.”
Uncertainty also surrounds ‘Biday’, despite 97 percent of filming reportedly being completed. Producer Shahreen Akhter Sumi said the chances of an Eid release were “very low”, with Durga Puja now being considered as an alternative target.
However, director Mehedi Hasan Hridoy remains optimistic. Parts of the film still need to be shot in Malaysia, but visa complications have delayed production. The film features Bapparaj, Prarthana Fardin Dighi and Faruk Ahmed.
Among the few productions already cleared by censors is Nakfuler Kabyo, produced by Bengal Multimedia and directed by Alok Hasan. The film stars Ador Azad and Puja Cherry.
“The movie will definitely come on Eid,” Hasan said, adding that one of the film’s songs would be released this week, followed by a teaser and trailer.
Director Masud Hasan Ujjal said no final decision had been taken regarding the Eid release of ‘Banalata Sen’, which stars Masuma Rahman Nabila and Khairul Basar.
Of several previously announced films including ‘Hangor’, ‘Durbar’, Officer, ‘Tachanch’ and ‘Shironam’, only Officer is still trying to secure an Eid release.
However, sources say distributors are currently unwilling to take on the project.
