Rakshanda Rahman Misha

Tripods, cameras, and an empty sofa awaited in anticipation at the Samson H Lounge at Dhaka Club for the arrival of an icon who has time and again broken conventional norms, working in iconic movies to leave an everlasting imprint in audiences' hearts. The room, once bustling with activity, hushed into silence as the legendary actress made her entrance.

“Better Film, Better Audience and Better Society” – with this slogan the curtains rose on the 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) at the Bangladesh National Museum today. The quintessential Bengali beauty and legendary actress Sharmila Tagore graced the stage as a special guest. Audiences and the media eagerly awaited the moment when the renowned actress would share her insights on stage.

“Oshomoy” marks Kajal Arefin Ome's debut in the realm of web-films, adding a new dimension to his already impressive portfolio, which includes widely acclaimed content like "Bachelor Point" and "Hotel Relax," earning him a substantial fan following. While the director is renowned for producing predominantly commercial content, “Oshomoy” serves as a testament to his ability to surpass the expectations of his critics.

From portraying a mute character in “Silence” to embodying a repentant figure in “Virus,” Shamol Mawla has left a lasting impression with his diverse roles and versatility throughout the last year. Wrapping up the year, he graced the Deepto Play web-series “Hridmajhare,” taking on the role of a doctor. The on-screen chemistry between Shamol and co-stars Aisha Khan and Nazia Haque Orsha has been much loved by the audience. In a candid interview with The Daily Star, the actor talked about his favourite projects and dubbing for Korean dramas, amongst other work.

The Korean drama "Death’s Game" arrived at a time when many adults are grappling with depression and contemplating taking their own lives. We are so consumed by our own miseries that we often overlook the suffering we impose on our loved ones when we succumb to death.

Rabindranath’s Chitrangada has mostly been adapted in dance-drama form, but theater troupe Swapnadal was adamant on narrating the mythological princess of the Kingdom of Manipur into a modern day ‘jatrabala’ styled drama for the audiences. Their unique adaptation of ‘Chitrangada’ caught the eyes of Asia’s largest theatre festival, as they are all set to perform at 25th edition of Bharat Rang Mahotsav, Delhi on February.

Roger Gwynn immortalized some of the most awe-inspiring images of the Birmingham protest against Pakistani brutality and genocide in Bangladesh in 1971. Additionally, he had the opportunity to meet the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1972 at the Claridges Hotel in London. He again came back to Bangladesh after the Independence to help reform the country after the disastrous Cyclone in 1974.

Sanjoy Somadder's debut Indian film, “Manush”, premiered in Kolkata on November 24. Although there were plans to release the movie in Bangladesh on the same day, complications arose, leading to a temporary halt on the release. Originally slated for distribution in Bangladesh by Jazz Multimedia, the rights were eventually transferred to Anonno Mamun and his production company.

Imagine producing your first project to then accidentally debuting on it by playing the role of a narcissistic Bengali-American character named Sahir. Well, Sheikh Niloy had different plans, but eventually, he succeeded in portraying the charming yet obnoxious Sahir, obsessed with his good looks. The 20-year-old Sahir shares his living space with equally narcissistic roommates – Dante, Gaia, and Aria – all on a quest to discover their elusive self-worth.

Glitz, glamour and a euphoric fashion statement: Blender’s Choice-The Daily Star OTT & Digital Content Awards 2022 witnessed an array of stars walking down the red carpet with panache and flair which can give Hollywood red carpet a run for their money.

OTT has elevated the film industry as well: Afran Nisho

When “Karagar” premiered on Hoichoi last year, Chanchal Chowdhury as the mystery guy left an indelible effect on viewers and critics alike. The story of the strange man who appeared out of nowhere in cell 145, which had been sealed for 50 years, along with Chanchal’s performance, made it one of the most critically acclaimed series.

Recently, the actress won over the critics with her surreal performance as Maha in "Karagar." Farin took home the coveted Best Actor (Female) award in the Critics category at the Blender's Choice-The Daily Star OTT & Digital Content Awards 2022. The actress also wowed the audience with her stellar performance at the event.

“The Night of Pritom Hasan” will feature the singer performing his popular songs alongside other renowned artistes who will all join the singer on stage to create a spectacular night for his fans on October 26 at Hall 4 of the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital.

“Khufiya” was released on Netflix on October 5. Above all else, Bangladesh’s own Azmeri Haque Badhan’s and Tabu’s chemistry became the focal point of the film. The tension-filled interactions between Octopus and KM culminated in an atmosphere that could be cut through with a blunt butter knife.

Star Cineplex organised a special segment to honour films that have left an indelible imprint on people's hearts. Films such as "Antarjal," "Prohelika," and "1971 Shei Shob Din" were honoured with flowers and accolades on stage. 

If you strolled through the Mohammadpur Society Limited area even a week ago, an unpleasant smell would pervade the air. The smell was actually from a canal, which appears to be filled with layers of filth, giving the impression that water has all but disappeared from the scene.

Cartoonist Morshed Mishu initiated awareness by organising a two-day cleaning event called “Khale Hobe” for the canal of Mohamadia Housing Limited, Mohammadpur (Road 1- 4).

British-Bangladeshi comedian Ehsaan Akber recently made his debut as an actor on Netflix's "Sex Education" season 4. In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, the actor shared his journey from a comedian to an actor.

Following "Dhaka Attack" and "Operation Sundarbans", Dipankar Dipon has created Bangladesh's first cybercrime thriller, "Antarjal", featuring a stellar cast that includes Siam Ahmed, Bidya Sinha Mim, Sunerah Binte Kamal, and ABM Sumon.