A group of more than 40 students from BUET, CUET, Dhaka University and Chittagong University have made a full-length film using money earned from tuition and their own pocket expenses.
Titled ‘Onnyopata’, the film will be released in cinemas during this year’s Durga Puja. It is the first feature film produced under SJA Production.
The students have been working on the film for the past two years while continuing their studies. The project began with a team of six and gradually grew into a group of more than 40 students.
The film is set against the backdrop of university admission tests in Bangladesh. It follows a young man who struggles with poverty while trying to secure admission to university. During this difficult period, he also becomes involved in a romantic relationship.
CUET student Md Shahezahan Anni has directed the film. He said the story was inspired by two real-life incidents.
“For most students in Bangladesh, the university admission period is one of the most important and challenging phases of life. It takes many of us a long time to move beyond the pressure and memories of that period. ‘Onnyopata’ tells a sweet story about surviving that phase, drawing on experiences I have witnessed myself,” he said.
The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. According to the filmmakers, it focuses on a simple story and incorporates elements of contemporary youth culture.
The film features six original songs, background music, cinematic depictions of Chattogram and other parts of Bangladesh, and language influenced by Gen Z culture.
CUET student Ankon Dey Animesh and BUET student Shams Abtahi Ismam have produced the film. They said they hope the story will appeal to audiences across age groups.
“The story of ‘Onnyopata’ is familiar, but the experience presented through it is quite different in Bangladesh. It carries the language and perspective of our generation, while we believe its simple and fresh storytelling will appeal to audiences of all ages,” they said.
Chittagong University students Shahriya Shakil and Pratyasha Ghosh play the lead roles. Shaim, Noman, Animesh, Ekushee, Imran, Manan and Roben are also part of the cast.
CU student Indra Neel handled the art direction, while Ibrahim Bin Ansari served as cinematographer. Fahriyaz Taszim Manan composed the music for the six songs, and Ainon created the background score.
CUET student Tanvir Jani handled the film’s post-production and colour grading. Dhaka University student Noman Ahmed Roni served as casting director, while HSC student Sudipto Pal worked as line producer.
The filmmakers said producing the film alongside their academic commitments was challenging. They financed the project with their own earnings from tuition and personal savings.
The announcement poster, motion video and main poster have already been released. The official trailer and music videos will be released soon.
‘Onnyopata’ will be released in cinemas during Durga Puja.
