#Title

LOOKING BACK AT 2024

OTT content that kept us subscribed
As 2024 comes to a close, it leaves behind a trail of events and milestones, including notable contributions from Bangladesh’s OTT platforms (Over-the-Top). Let’s revisit some of the year’s most talked-about works on the interweb.
SAEED KHAN SHAGOR
Web-films
KACHER MANUSH DURE THUIYA
Part of Chorki’s much-anticipated Ministry of Love anthology series, this Shihab Shaheen directorial explores the intricacies of long-distance relationships, portraying their merits and challenges in a unique manner. The narrative delves into the complexities of relationships through various characters’ perspectives, making it a commendable romantic project rooted in realism. Featuring Pritom Hasan and Tasnia Farin, the film’s humour resonated widely on social media throughout the year, with memes and relatable storylines connecting viewers to its themes.
FORGET ME NOT
Premiering on Chorki in September, Forget Me Not received critical acclaim for its exploration of how modern relationships are shaped by factors like economic disparities, political ideologies, familial conflicts, career aspirations, and varying ambitions. It also highlights the dynamics between partners with differing goals and aspirations, offering audiences a fresh perspective on familiar dilemmas. Starring Yash Rohan and Mehazabien Chowdhury, the Robiul Alam Robi directorial captivated audiences with its emotional depth and aesthetic appeal.
LAST DEFENDERS OF MONOGAMY
This Ministry of Love entry by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki follows the story of a seemingly ideal man—a devoted husband, loving father, and respected boss—who unexpectedly finds himself infatuated with a new colleague. While the relationship never fully blossoms, the film uses the metro rail as a central metaphor, symbolising the duplicity and moral compromises of urban relationships. Farooki’s experimental narrative critiques modern mediocrity with the poignant observation: “We are modern, but mediocre.” Featuring Chanchal Chowdhury and Xefer Rahman, the film offers a thought-provoking take on contemporary love.
OSHOMOY
Released on Bongo, Oshomoy delves into the struggles of middle-class families, capturing the disconnect between aspirations and reality, power imbalances, and societal challenges. Directed by Kajal Arefin Omi, this family drama examines the evolution of familial crises from the 1990s to the 21st century. While the rushed courtroom scenes and occasional plot loopholes detract slightly, Tasnia Farin’s portrayal of a university freshman anchors the film, vividly depicting middle-class struggles and transitions.
MAYA
Binge released Maya , marking Sarika’s dazzling return after a long hiatus. Directed by Raihan Rafi, the film begins with a woman’s determined quest to find her disappeared husband at a police station. The narrative evolves into a tale of resilience, exploring the societal and familial adversities faced in her husband’s absence. Imon and Sarika deliver compelling performances, supported by a dynamic background score that heightens suspense. Despite minor narrative flaws, Rafi’s storytelling strikes an emotional chord, leaving a lasting impression.
Web-series
KAALPURUSH
Directed by Salzar Rahman, Kaalpurush is a gripping three-hour web series. With a unique take on time travel, it features Chanchal Chowdhury’s enigmatic performance alongside contrasting portrayals by Imtiaz Barshon and FS Nayeem as police officers. Tanzika Amin’s role as a family-oriented character adds depth to this intricately designed series, which captivates viewers despite some logical gaps.
GOLAM MAMUN
A spin-off from Buker Modhye Agun , this Shihab Shaheen directorial tells the story of Golam Mamun (Ziaul Faruque Apurba), a police officer turned fugitive implicated in double murders. The series unfolds into a gripping narrative of crime, betrayal, and political intrigue. Imtiaz Barshon’s portrayal of Officer Robin received widespread acclaim, while Sabila Nur, Rashed Mamun Apu, and Masum Bashar delivered notable performances. However, the series’ commentary on the supremacy of syndicates and systemic flaws risks leaving viewers with the misleading message: “A qualified ruler is a myth.”
RONGILA KITAB
Directed by Anam Biswas, this Hoichoi series centres on Pradip, a Barishal-based goon who promises his pregnant wife to abandon his life of crime. However, a high-profile murder and ensuing riots force him into a tragic decision. The series tackles themes like political power struggles and border conflicts, with Mostafizur Noor Imran excelling as Pradip and Pori Moni delivering a stellar performance as his wife, Shupti.
SINPAAT
Touqir Islam’s Sinpaat , a seven-episode series on Chorki, continues his exploration of the Rajshahi region. Following the criminal escapades of Fazu and Shohel, the story unfolds with raw intensity as the duo struggles to escape their past. Real-life former criminal Sohel Sheikh and actor Rifat Bin Manik received acclaim for their authentic portrayals in this gritty narrative.
FRENZY
Directed by Jahid Pritom, Frenzy is a Binge Original that offers a refreshing departure from violence-centric Bangladeshi web series. Balancing moments of joy and sorrow, it explores relationships, red flags, and friendships in a feel-good narrative. Featuring Abu Huraira Tanvir, Sabrin Azad, Partho Sheikh, and Aisha Khan, the series transitions from a family-focused story to the lives of four young people navigating new beginnings, delivering a heartwarming tale of connection and growth.