Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury’s directorial film ‘Boli’, which has gained attention at various international film festivals, is set to be released in theaters across Bangladesh on February 7.
Producer Piplu R Khan revealed that preparations for the film’s theatrical debut are in full swing. ‘Boli’ previously won recognition at the Busan International Film Festival and received its censor certification in September last year.
Khan explained, “Initially, we had planned to release the film on February 14, but after consulting with the director and considering various factors, we decided to bring the release date forward. Releasing it this weekend seems like the best option, even though the timeline is tight.”
Director Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury, who returned to Bangladesh in late January for the release, is focused on finalizing the details. “The film will be released on Friday. The distributor and theater owners have confirmed, and we are putting the final touches in place,” he said.
‘Boli’ won the Best Film award at the 28th Busan International Film Festival and was showcased at several other prestigious festivals, including the Shanghai International Film Festival. Most recently, it served as the closing film of the 23rd Dhaka International Film Festival in January, where the producer announced its upcoming release. Now, the film will be available for local audiences in theaters starting February 7.
Chowdhury, originally from Bashkhali in Chattogram, Bangladesh, draws inspiration from his deep-rooted connection to the coastal region and his childhood experience of the 1991 cyclone disaster. This connection influenced the making of ‘Boli’, which centers on “Boli Khela,” a traditional wrestling sport linked to the heritage of the coastal people of Chattogram.
The film, which received a government grant in 2021, stars Nasir Uddin Khan as the lead Boli, with Priyam Archi, AKM Itmam, and Angel Noor in supporting roles.
