Jaya Ahsan's film "Fereshte," a collaborative effort between Bangladesh and Iran, is set to be showcased at the 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival, commencing on January 20 at the Bangladesh National Museum Auditorium. Directed by Morteza Atashzamzam and shot in Bangladesh, the movie delves into the poignant tales of a rickshaw puller and the myriad challenges faced by the working class.
The festival's inauguration will feature the screening of "Fereshte" at 5 pm in the Asian Film Competition category. Renowned actress Sharmila Tagore will commence the ceremony at 4 pm, followed by a cultural program. Another noteworthy film, "Mujib: The Making of a Nation," directed by Shyam Benegal, is scheduled for screening at 7 pm.
Ahmed Muztaba Zaman Shovon, the director of the Dhaka International Film Festival, shared insights into the event, highlighting this year's thematic focus on 'China.' A 'Wide-Angle Film Poster Exhibition' showcasing Chinese movies has been organized as part of the festival.
Sharmila Tagore, an esteemed member of the jury in the Asian competition section, will be joined by judges such as Russian producer Anna Shalashina, Chinese film expert and producer Dr. Shi Chuan, Bangladeshi director Samia Zaman, and Thai director and producer Tom Waller. Their responsibilities include evaluating films across various categories within the Asian competition section, encompassing best movie, producer, actor, actress, screenwriter, and cinematographer. The festival promises a diverse and enriching cinematic experience, celebrating the cultural tapestry of Asian cinema.
In addition to the film screenings, the Dhaka International Film Festival will host masterclasses by renowned figures in the industry. Iranian director Majid Majidi, celebrated for his work on "Children of Heaven," will lead one of the sessions. Participants can anticipate insights into his unique approach to filmmaking.
Moreover, the festival will feature masterclasses conducted by distinguished musician Anjan Dutt, offering a different perspective on the intersection of music and film. Additionally, Chinese film expert Shi Chuan will share expertise in his masterclass, providing valuable insights into the world of Chinese cinema.
With the ambitious goal of showcasing around 250 films from 75 countries, the festival will encompass a wide range of competitions spanning various categories. These include Asian Cinema, Retrospective, Tribute, Wide Angle, Bangladesh Panorama, Cinema of the World, Children Films, Women Filmmakers, Short and Independent Films, and Spiritual Films. The diverse array of categories ensures a comprehensive exploration of cinema from different perspectives.
Scheduled to unfold from January 20 to 28, the Dhaka International Film Festival promises to be an immersive and enriching experience for cinephiles, offering a platform to appreciate the global diversity of filmmaking.