To take a break from the chaotic social rat race, Utshob is a must-watch

Entertainment Desk:

The movie Utshob, directed by Tanim Noor, was released on June 7. The entire film carries a celebratory mood and festive vibe. After a long time, here’s a film that offers a true slice of life celebration — grounded, heartfelt, and deeply familiar.

While inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the film’s culturally rooted narrative—centred on community, memory, regret and the power of togetherness—makes it stand out.

The director blends social satire with emotional redemption, all wrapped in festive, comedic and emotional drama.

The main character, Jahangir, played by Zahid Hasan, is an event manager from Mohammadpur. The neighbourhood he lives in is named “Shantinir,” but the people there dislike him for his unfriendly, selfish and arrogant behaviour.

He continuously disrupts local youth musical sessions, mistreats animals, and refuses to help orphans in the community. His neighbourhood nickname, “Khaista Jahangir,” adds a touch of comic relief to an otherwise emotional narrative.

The plot takes a dramatic turn when his past and present collide through nightmares and ghostly visions, forcing him to confront the meaninglessness of a life driven by wealth.

Even though the movie honours Dickens’ modern storyline, the director gives every aspect of the narrative a Bangladeshi texture — from the chaos of family gatherings and the sight of colourful kites dancing in the sky to the vibrancy of street vendors.

The film particularly stands out when it takes us into Jahangir’s past. The cinematography successfully evokes the ambience of the 90s. It turns ordinary locations into poetic spaces for reflection and growth, bathing Dhaka in soft, golden hues.

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its diverse cast. Chanchal Chowdhury, Jaya Ahsan and Aupee Karim bring both humour and emotional depth to their roles. They anchor the emotional and narrative core of the film.

Afsana Mimi and Tariq Anam Khan deliver subtle performances that help structure the narrative, while young actors such as Sadia Ayman, Shommo Jyoti and Sunerah Binte Kamal bring enthusiasm and freshness.

Utshob differs from a typical film in its tone, moving seamlessly between laughter and grief. Its humour, a mix of comedy and horror, emerges from authentic conversation rather than forced jokes.

Some of the most memorable moments come from Chanchal Chowdhury’s delivery and Zahid Hasan’s now-iconic lines such as “Ki, bhoy pachchhis?” and “Hijibiji.”

The movie doesn’t preach — it welcomes us in. It gently encourages us to pause, reflect on the choices we’ve made throughout our lives, and questions the grip of materialism.

The chemistry between young Jahangir and Jasmine is one of the film’s highlights. Their storyline fits perfectly into a 90s-style love story. Their performances are impressive, especially considering they share the screen with some of the industry’s most established names.

The director incorporates two band tracks—“Tumi” by Level Five and “Dhushor Shomoy” by Artcell—which resonate perfectly with the film’s emotional rhythm.

In our hectic lives, a film like this offers the audience a moment to breathe and reflect. It reminds us that everything around us matters in an increasingly individualistic society.

The relationships around us aren’t formed by obligation, but by genuine emotion. Utshob successfully portrays human emotions, connections, and most importantly, reminds us that materialism is fragile and fleeting. To take a break from the chaotic social rat race, Utshob is a must-watch.