With Eid-ul-Azha just a day away, uncertainty still surrounds the number of films that will ultimately reach cinemas, despite 10 productions initially announcing Eid releases.
Industry insiders say no more than six or seven films are likely to make it to theatres in the end. Cinema owners, however, remain optimistic that a strong festive lineup could help bring audiences back to halls after a long lull, particularly at multiplexes where anticipation for Eid releases appears high.
Among the most talked-about titles is ‘Rockstar’, starring Shakib Khan and directed by Azman Rusho. Excitement around the film has continued to build since its first promotional poster was unveiled on March 28 to mark Shakib Khan’s birthday. An official teaser followed soon after. The film pairs him opposite Sabila Nur.
Another highly anticipated release is ‘Roid’, the latest project from ‘Hawa’ director Mejbauer Rahman Sumon. The film stars Mostafizur Noor Imran and Nazifa Tushi in lead roles, alongside Gazi Rakayet, Ahsabul Yamin Riyad and Tutul Fakir. The story centres on the struggles of a mystic man and his mentally unwell wife. Three songs from the film have already been released.
‘Malik’, directed by Saif Chandan, features Arifin Shuvoo and Bidya Sinha Mim. The film follows a young man’s descent into the criminal underworld as he fights to protect his mother’s honour.
Director Saikat Nasir is bringing the iconic fictional spy ‘Masud Rana’ to the big screen with a new adaptation backed by Impress Telefilm and Jaaz Multimedia. The film stars Russell Rana and Puja Cherry, and has generated curiosity among audiences familiar with the popular character created by Kazi Anwar Hossain.
Government-funded film ‘Bonolata Sen’, directed by Masud Hasan Ujjal, blends realism and metaphor inspired by the poetry of Jibanananda Das. Masuma Rahman Nabila appears in the title role, while Khairul Basar portrays the poet. Although teasers, trailers and songs have been released, a final release confirmation has yet to arrive.
Two previously delayed productions, ‘Nakphuler Kabbo’ starring Puja Cherry and Ador Azad, and ‘Pinik’ featuring Shobnom Bubly alongside Ador Azad, are also considered unlikely to release during Eid despite earlier announcements.
Meanwhile, ‘Tosnos’ and ‘Officer’, both directed by Badiul Alam Khokon, along with Akash Hossain’s ‘The University of Chankharpul’, remain on the release list, though their promotional campaigns have been relatively subdued.
