Enforce law to check vulgarity in films

Information Minister M Shamsul Islam speaks at a roundtable on "What are the means to bring back healthy atmosphere to film industry?" at Hotel Sheraton in the city yesterday. On his right are actor Abdur Razzak and actress Kabori Sarwar and on his left is Chasi Nazrul Islam. PHOTO: STAR

They also called on the associations of producers, directors and artists to come forward to save the film industry from the current debacle.

The Prothom Alo, a Bangla daily, organised the roundtable on "What are the means to bring back healthy atmosphere to film industry?" at Hotel Sheraton in the city.

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The speakers also underscored the need for stamping out video piracy to boost the growth of film industry and preserve the culture and heritage of the country.

"We will take steps very soon to stop different satellite channels showing indecent movies," said Information Minister M Shamsul Islam.

"Government should help build some cinemas providing ideal environment in big cities and towns to screen good movies so that people go back to the cinemas again," said Jahid Hossain, joint secretary of the home ministry.

Renowned director Tanvir Mokammel suggested setting up a film institute to produce talented young directors, artists and cameramen.

He also said each film should be rated through a grading system so that people can have an idea about the movie.

Film star Kabori said how can one expect good movies when the same producers and directors who are engaged in making vulgar films serve at the censor board.

"Out of 1200 cinemas across the country, about 900 are totally unfit. The government should provide loans to the owners of these cinemas to improve the environment," said actor Elias Kanchan.

Directors Chasi Nazrul Islam, Shahidul Islam Khokan, Kazi Hayat and Mostafa Sarwer Faruqi, and actors Razzaqe, Uzzal, Reaz, Ferdous, Rozi, Mousami and Purnima also spoke.

Matiur Rahman, editor of the Prothom Alo, moderated the roundtable.