Tauquir coming with ''OGGYATONAMA''
Acclaimed actor- director Tauquir Ahmed is set to shoot his new movie after a long pause. The shooting for “Oggyatonama”, his latest big-screen project, is underway at Pangsha in Rajbari. In a recent conversation with The Daily Star, the National Award-winning director spoke about the project and other subjects. Excerpts:
Why should the audience be interested in your latest film “Oggyatonama”?
Tauquir: Tough question. My cinema is a compilation of a thought, a story and a message. Earlier, I made “Joyjatra” on the Liberation War, “Rupkothar Golpo” on the lifestyle of ordinary people and “Daruchini Dwip”. This time, “Oggyatonama” will narrate the life of expatriates in Middle East. I think the audience will enjoy it.
If you acted in the film, which character would you choose?
Tauquir: I have acted in the TV plays while directing them, but it's very tough in cinema. But if I had to, I'd choose the one being played by Shahiduzzaman Selim. He plays a middleman engaged in manpower business.
What brings you back to the director's chair after seven years?
Tauquir: I was busy with my project Nakkhatrabari Resort besides TV direction, production and acting during the period. Sometimes it's good to take time to deliver products, and I decided to that for this film.
What types of problems did you face during making film on the Liberation War?
Tauquir: Firstly, filming the scene of wartime is costly. Fund collection for such project is a problem. You have to begin with a big arrangement.
What was your most satisfying film as a director?
Tauquir: I have done all the projects with a lot of heart. But of them, “Joyjatra” on the Liberation War gave me immense satisfaction. It was critically acclaimed across the country. I hope the film stays in people's mind for long.
How essential is cinema in our lives?
Tauquir: The films we make do not reflect the life of audiences. To me, cinema is larger than life. This medium is powerful, and if the power is used in favour of life, that would be its success. I think a good film is very essential for life.
You have also been planning a film on the Language Movement?
Tauquir: I've been planning for this for the last 5/6 years, but haven't yet got the momentum. Even if it takes time, I want to make that film someday.