In a historic moment for Bangladesh's emerging filmmakers, the first Bangladeshi short film has been selected to be showcased at the 46th Moscow International Film Festival. Titled "Hoite Surma", the film is directed by Manoj Pramanik and Subrata Sarkar, and it is part of the filmmaking initiative at the Eco Film Lab which is an endeavor of Bibesh Ray. The film explores the complex relationships between humans, nature, and climate change. It is set around the banks of Shonir Haor in Taherpur Upazila, Sunamganj, and depicts the struggles faced by people due to river pollution and environmental degradation. The film highlights the retaliatory struggles of nature against those who harm it.
As part of the Eco Film Lab's policy, the film was produced with minimal resources, utilising non-professional actors, real locations, natural light, limited artistic skills, restricted locations, and overall minimalistic arrangements. The cast includes Millat Hossain, Firoz Ahmed, Bijoy Das, Monika Das, and Monju Talukdar, amongst others.
The film has been edited by the Editing Department of the American Film Institute, making it the first Bangladeshi film to be fully edited at the renowned institution. "Hoite Surma" has already undergone a DCP projection test at the American Film Institute's theatre, ensuring its readiness for screening at the Moscow festival.
The film is not only supported by the International Academy of Film and Media but also benefits from collaborative efforts with various entities in Bangladesh, including the Monpachitro, Oman's International Focal Trading, Saudi Arabia's Third Action, Germany's Mogador Film, and America's Smash Media.
The producer, Bibesh Ray, co-producer Asim Altokhais, and director Manoj Pramanik will be present at the festival from the film's inception. There is also a special screening planned for the film at the Moscow Film School, the first film school in the world (now known as VGIK).
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Bangladesh's film industry and paves the way for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent on a global platform.