Bangladeshi-US film Ordhangini, originally slated for a theatrical release in both the United States and Bangladesh, will now premiere on YouTube after cinema owners in neither country showed interest.
The decision comes after repeated delays caused by political unrest, logistical challenges and a shortage of theatres, with the filmmakers ultimately opting for an online release ahead of Eid.
The filmmakers added that, despite repeated contact with distributors in Bangladesh, no promising offers were received.
Ordhangini is set in a social and family context. According to Syed R Emon, just as the definition of human life evolves over time, so do the struggles people face. In the current reality, individuals no longer stand by one another in times of crisis; a concept that inspired the story.
The movie was shot across New York and New Jersey during a harsh winter. The director noted that Moushumi, unaccustomed to the US winter, endured eight-hour shoots on a mountain in minus 16-degree Celsius temperatures and strong winds, wearing only a sari; a feat that still astonishes her.
The director revealed that Ordhangini was initially planned as a telefilm. After production, a premiere was held in the US, with the film running for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Later, when a theatrical release was considered, the length of the movie was adjusted by adding and removing scenes.
Alongside Moushumi, the cast includes US-based Tariqul Islam Mithu, Jolly Ahmed, Sarwar Premel, Sumit Chowdhury, Nowshin Mridula, Joy Chowdhury and others.
Ordhangini is produced by Tariqul Islam Mithu, with music composed by Mehedi Hasan Tamjid.
