Minus temperatures, challenging set, Chanchal perseveres
National Film Award–winning actor Chanchal Chowdhury is currently working on three new films — “Domm”, directed by Redoan Rony; “Bonolota Express”, directed by Tanim Noor; and “Shasti”, to be directed by Leesa Gazi.
Among the three, shooting for “Shasti", which is based on Rabindranath Tagore’s short story of the same name, is set to begin soon. While the actor has already completed most of the shooting for the other two projects.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. “Shasthi”, the recently announced film will cast Pori Moni, opposite Chanchal, marking the first collaboration between the two actors. Speaking about his co-star, he said, “Pori Moni is a good actress. She gave wonderful performances in “Swapnajaal” and "Gunin”, both directed by Giasuddin Selim. At the same time, she looks beautiful on screen, and we all know that audiences have always adored her.”
He added that Pori Moni needs more meaningful roles and strong directors to truly showcase her potential. “If she gets good projects with good filmmakers, I believe that she can do exceptionally well.
This will be my first film with her. I truly hope it turns out to be something special,” he said.
Adding to this the “Monpura” actor suggested, “We need more literature-based films.”
While the shooting for “Domm” took place abroad, and recalling his shooting experience in Kazakhstan, Chowdhury said, “I had never shot in minus two or minus three degrees before. The hardship was incredible — everyone in the team suffered. At night, the cold became unbearable. And we couldn’t always wear winter clothes in every scene. After finishing each shot, we would rush back to the car to sit near the heater. We went through all this hardship for Domm.”
Talking further about the film, the actor described the film as a story rooted in intense struggle. “Afran Nisho has delivered an outstanding performance. Everyone has done their best in their own space.”
He further noted that “Domm” was made by a highly professional team. “Both Bangladeshi and Kazakh technicians worked together. The cinematographer was from Kazakhstan. Acting in such a story gave me immense satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment.”
As the conversation moves to “Bonolota Express”, Chanchal informs that the film adapted from Humayun Ahmed’s novel “Kichukhon” was filmed largely inside a train, adding a unique visual and narrative texture to the project.
“Besides the train we also had to use a helicopter. Essentially, it’s a journey-based story, and it's going to be quite interesting to watch!”
On working with Humayun Ahmed’s stories, he said, “His work pulls you in like a magnet. He was a true magician of storytelling. A wonderful screenplay has been developed from his novel. We shot with a large team, and actors like Mosharraf Karim and Badhan are also part of the film.”
In addition to these projects, Chowdhury completed shooting for Raihan Rafi’s “Andhar” quite some time ago, and the film is now awaiting release. “I believe it’s going to be another strong piece of work,” he said.
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