Entertainment Desk:

Popular actor Mehazabien Chowdhury’s debut film “Saba” has been selected to have its world premiere in the Discovery Programme at the Toronto International Film Festival 2024 (TIFF). The 49th edition of the prestigious film fest will run from 5 to 15 September in Toronto, Canada.

Mehazabien will be seen in the titular role in the movie “Saba”, directed by Maksud Hossain. After 14 years of TV acting career, the actor made her big screen debut through the film. Besides acting, Mehazabien also produced the project.

The story and screenplay of the movie have been written by Trilora Khan and the director Maksud Hossain himself.

The story of the film revolves around 25-year-old Saba, who stays with her demanding mother, Shirin. The mother-daughter duo has been grappling with financial hardships for over a decade, and Saba has devoted her life to making ends meet for both. She is trapped in an unrelenting cycle, yet Shirin’s expectations of her continue to escalate.

“Saba” also stars Rokeya Prachy and Mostafa Monwar in the key roles.

TIFF’s Discovery Programme premieres debut and sophomore films from emerging filmmakers, showcasing the best of contemporary international cinema. This year’s programme encompasses 24 titles, with 21 World Premieres, representing more than 25 countries, including Argentina, Bangladesh, Colombia, Denmark, Greece, India and others. The prize for the best film in this category is $20,000.

This programme has notably been a launching ground for filmmakers, many of whom have gone on to great acclaim. Discovery alumni include award-winning filmmakers such as Ildikó Enyedi, Alfonso Cuarón, Christopher Nolan, Maren Ade, Yorgos Lanthimos, Barry Jenkins, and Emma Seligman.