Despite high expectations from the film industry, Nazifa Tushi remains a selective performer, appearing in few dramas, commercials or films. She won over audiences with her portrayal of Bedekanya in Mejbaur Rahman Suman’s ‘Hawa’ and as a deceitful lover in Redwan Rony’s ‘Ice Cream’.
She began her career through the Lux Channel i Superstar competition, where she was first runner-up in 2014 and rose to prominence through Hawa.
Many expected her to become a regular on the big screen, but she prefers a measured approach. Now, after three years, the title of her new film has been revealed — ‘Andhar’. Directed by Raihan Rafi, the film features Chanchal Chowdhury and Siam Ahmed alongside Tushi.
Confusion surrounds the casting, with some sources claiming Siam is her leading man and others suggesting it is Chanchal. Reportedly, while Rafi is the main director, another director is handling casting decisions, selecting actors based on personal preference.
Speaking to The Times of Bangladesh, Tushi said, “I can only say that I am working. It would be better if you discussed this with Raihan Rafi. An artist cannot say much even if they want to; we have to work within many restrictions. I cannot reveal anything for now; whatever needs to be said, the team and director will say.”
Tushi and Chanchal previously appeared together in Hawa, in which Shariful Raj played her on-screen partner. Their performances, however, drew praise from both audiences and critics.
Director Rafi remains tight-lipped about Andhar. “We didn’t want to reveal anything about the film yet, but somehow it got leaked. It’s a horror, mystery and action film combined, with a significant amount of VFX, the kind not yet seen in our country’s films. We’re aiming for Hollywood and Bollywood-quality VFX. Even after filming is complete, post-production will take many months,” he said.
Regarding the casting, he added, “The names you’ve heard may be correct, or they may not. This is not a traditional pairing film. No one is paired with anyone and the story does not focus on a single character.”
Pre-production for Andhar is under way. The script was jointly written by acclaimed bassist and musician Saidus Salehin Sumon (aka Bassbaba Sumon) of Aurthohin, rock music veteran Shakib Chowdhury of Cryptic Fate and filmmaker Adnan Adib Khan.
Filming is set to begin in September, with plans to release Andhar between the two Eids.