Entertainment Desk:

The film “Bangali Bilash” by Ebadur Rahman—one of Bangladesh’s most esteemed writers, film critics, and directors—is confirmed to be screened at the Marché du Film de Cannes (Cannes Film Market), the commercial wing of the Cannes Film Festival, this year.

In a press statement, Rahman shared that he will be attending the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, running from May 13 to 25. Notably, “Bangali Bilash” is scheduled to be screened before agents and distributors on May 18, as part of the Marché du Film segment.

Internationally titled “Tractatus Bengalium”, the film marks a significant departure from mainstream Bangladeshi cinema. This 190-minute feature has been made in both Bengali and English and explores layered themes such as sexuality, feminism, betrayal, and politics, crafting a cinematic experience that is both intricate and emotionally resonant.

According to Rahman, “The film employs a ‘film-within-a-film’ structure, where two Muslim female characters, Mitra and Rushti, embark on a struggle to reclaim control over their bodies and language from a patriarchal filmmaker.”

“Bangali Bilash” features Indian actress Rituparna Sen, known for her provocative role in Q’s “Gandu”. The cast also includes Farhana Hamid, Naima Tasnim, Shatabdi Wadud, and Azad Abul Kalam, among others.

Cinematographers Rawan Sayema and Mohammad Arifuzzaman led the visuals, while the editing was handled by Berlin’s Oscar Loeser and Dhaka’s Iqbal Kabir Joel. The film’s soundscape was crafted by Finnish sound designer Mika Niinimaa.

Rahman further stated, “‘Bangali Bilash’ is not just a film—it is a cultural and political response. I have attempted to present questions of womanhood, the body, and belief in a new light, deliberately breaking the traditional mould of Bengali cinema.”

The filmmaker also mentioned that “Bangali Bilash” has already drawn the attention of international distributors and festival curators. “My trip to Cannes this year is part of that ongoing journey.”