Zarin Tasnim

Taylor Tomlinson's latest comedy special, "Have It All," is a tour de force that seamlessly blends humour with reflections on life's complexities. Premiered on Valentine's Day, this Netflix gem takes audiences on a journey through the highs and lows of Taylor's personal and professional life, all while eliciting genuine laughter and introspection.

In a momentous occasion set to mark a significant milestone in the world of Bengali cinema, the inaugural Suchitra Sen International Bengali Film Festival is set to grace the bustling streets of New York City. With anticipation brewing and excitement mounting, Bengali cinema aficionados worldwide eagerly await the grand debut of this cinematic extravaganza.

Richard Linklater's "Before Sunset" continues to stand the test of time as a captivating portrayal of love, conversation, and the ineffable allure of Paris since its premiere at the Berlin International Film Fest (Berlinale) 20 years ago on this day. The film remains a shining example of cinematic intimacy, relying solely on the dialogue between its two protagonists to weave a profoundly romantic narrative.

In cinema, Love is often depicted as a grand, sweeping force that transforms lives and provides the pinnacle of human experience. However, Richard Linklater's “Before” trilogy, particularly the first installment, “Before Sunrise”, challenges these conventional notions of romance and love. Released over a quarter of a century ago, the film takes a unique approach in steering away from cinematic tropes and embracing a more authentic portrayal of love.

The onset of postmodern cinema in the grand scheme of Hollywood filmmaking began in the 1980s, reflecting and influencing the historical fusion of media culture, technology, and consumerism. Postmodern cinema is distinguished by disjointed narratives, a dark view of the human condition, images of chaos alongside random violence, the death of the hero, an emphasis on technique over content, and dystopian views of the future. The genre departs from the modernist cultural tradition established on the Enlightenment, industrial society norms, and faith in historical progress.

Ahmed Hasan Sunny, a rising star in the music industry, has seen a rapid ascent to fame. Yet he holds steadfast to his artistic principles and personal identity, unruffled by the allure of fame or commercial success. He drops by The Daily Star’s studio for a brief chat.

Justine Triet's Cannes Palme d'Or and Golden Globe-winning masterpiece, "Anatomy of a Fall", transcends the boundaries of traditional cinema, diving into the labyrinthine intricacies of human connections. A mesmerising portrayal by Sandra Hüller adds an intensely personal touch to this gripping French drama, where love's mysteries unfold against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps.

Leaving the comforting cocoon of home after school or college is a step into a world of newfound independence, adventure, and responsibility. In Bangladesh, this transition can be particularly daunting, with the shift from the warmth of family to the solitary rhythm of daily life. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the chores and the pursuit of education or career aspirations, there's a silent companion that we often overlook - our beloved TV series. They aren't just shows; they've evolved into our family members, offering solace and companionship in those hours when the walls echo with solitude.

The realm of cinema witnessed an unprecedented wave of creative brilliance – marking 2023 as a year that not only revitalised theaters but also set the stage ablaze with an unrivaled array of cinematic masterpieces. This year the silver screen transformed into a magnificent canvas, showcasing an eclectic mix of captivating narratives that enthralled audiences worldwide.

As news of Andre Braugher's passing echoes through the hearts of fans, a profound sense of loss settles, a loss that extends beyond the screen, into the very fabric of our lives. For many of us, rewatching all the cold openings of Captain Holt on YouTube won't be the same. It's as if a cherished friend, a beacon of wisdom and humour, has departed, leaving a void that cannot easily be filled.

A delicate balance between grim reality and dramatisation is required to dig into the portrayal of real-life tragedies. Netflix's "The Railway Men" is a gripping portrayal that intertwines the narrative of railway employees with the haunting reality of the Bhopal disaster of 1984. This series artfully weaves together the tale of human endeavour, and corporate negligence, while also serving as a poignant homage to the remarkable human spirit and resilience amidst tragedy. The show delves into the lives of those involved in a real-life incident by shedding light on a chapter of history often overshadowed by the enormity of its sorrow.

In the world of Bangla rap, few names carry as much weight and influence as Black Zang. His journey, intricately entwined with the rise of Bangla rap culture, is a testament to artistic evolution, cultural amalgamation, and the power of storytelling through music. In the vibrant and ever-evolving realm of hip-hop music, Black Zang stands out as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

The spirit of solidarity through music has been a beacon of hope and activism throughout history. Just as the "To Gaza, from Dhaka – Artists Against Genocide" concert unites Bangladeshi musicians to aid Gaza, it bears a striking resemblance to another historic musical event: the "Concert for Bangladesh."

Comedy has long been recognised as a potent medium for social commentary and critique. Amongst the myriad of issues it tackles, the Israel-Palestine conflict has not escaped the attention of comedians worldwide. Employing humour as a mechanism for protest and expression, comedians have increasingly utilised their platforms in recent years to spotlight the complexities and tensions inherent in this ongoing conflict.

Tilda Swinton's name is synonymous with the art of transformation in the world of cinema. Born in London on November 5, 1960, this British actress possesses a rare blend of versatility, artistry, and unwavering dedication to her craft. With her distinctive ethereal appearance and her ability to seamlessly immerse herself in diverse roles, Tilda Swinton has rightfully earned her place as one of the most intriguing and influential figures in the film industry. On the occasion of her birthday today, this is a look at how the actress is a living manifestation of art.

Leonard Cohen’s heartbreak ballad “That’s No Way To Say Goodbye”, the opening track used in “Past Lives” carries a profound resonance that perfectly captures the sudden parting in the story of two childhood sweethearts. The gentle wisdom expressed by the poet also captures the subtle cleverness that is equivalent to the allure of playwright Celine Song’s first film as a director.

Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the ‘Baadshah of Bollywood’ has enjoyed a remarkable career in the Indian film industry. He has been an integral part of the silver screen since the early 90s, consistently captivating audiences with his charm and versatility. Although Khan is widely recognised for his romantic hero roles, his greatest acting prowess shines through when he portrays anti-heroes. 

The horror genre in Bollywood has come a long way since its inception. From the days of black-and-white classics to the modern era of psychological thrillers and supernatural tales, the evolution of horror in Indian cinema is a fascinating journey. This genre has not only sent chills down the spines of audiences but also provided a unique lens through which filmmakers have explored societal fears and cultural taboos.

The festivities are a perfect time to binge-watch movies to get in the spirit of the season. Here is a selection of films that successfully captured the essence of Durga Puja.

His collaborations with legendary music directors, especially R D Burman, resulted in a musical fusion that produced some of the most iconic and memorable tunes in the history of Indian cinema. The magic they created together, be it the haunting melodies of "Kabhi Kabhi" or the playful notes of "Yeh jo mohabbat hai", contributed to the evergreen quality of Kishore Kumar's discography.