Popular actress Purnima is all set to debut on OTT with Amitabh Reza Chowdhury's detective movie "Munshigiri." The much-awaited web film is expected to release this month.

In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, the "Moner Majhe Tumi" famed actress opens up about resuming shooting after a long time and her OTT experience.

Your web film "Munshigiri", directed by Amitabh Reza Chowdhury is planned to be released this month. Can you share something about the web film?

 "Munshigiri" is my first web film and my acting experience was exceptional. Amitabh Reza is undoubtedly an efficient director.

"Munshigiri" is based on Shibabrata Barman's novel "Mritorao Kotha Bole" and this web film has some interesting elements. I have thoroughly enjoyed working on "Munshigiri" and have high hopes from this project.

How was your experience while working with Chanchal Chowdhury?

I had worked with Chanchal Chowdhury about 13 years ago in an Eid drama titled "Buno Phuler Ghraan". He is a celebrated actor and I had a wonderful experience working with him again after such a long time.

Web-series have become really popular nowadays. Are you looking towards more such OTT based productions?

I am being offered OTT projects. However, it is not possible to take up so many projects as I need to consider script, location and budget.

Currently, I can consider only a couple of offers. I will be shooting for my latest web-film by next month.

You have returned to acting after 8 months. Do you think you will be able to finish the shooting for "Gangchil"?

Due to various reasons, I could not complete the shooting for "Gangchil" earlier. However, we have resumed shooting and hope to be done soon.

We are yet to shoot for a song and as soon as we are finished with it, the film will be pushed into post production, followed by the formal procedures with the Censor Board.

Nowadays web-film are being compared with BFDC movies. What are your thoughts in this regard?

BFDC movies and web films are completely different genres. BFDC productions lean towards theatrical releases while OTT releases lets you enjoy movies in your home.

Nevertheless, OTT releases appeal to a wider audience and requires focus, dedication and time from the performers. At the end of the day, I think both platforms require the same effort from us.  

Bangladesh Film Artists' Welfare Trust Board has been formed and you are a member of the committee. What are your thoughts regarding this initiative?

I have been informed about this decision a few days ago by the Ministry of Information. Misha Sawdagar and Shahiduzzaman Selim, are also part of this committee. I am feeling enormously honoured!

Recession in the film industry is very much prevalent for a long time. Do you think the good days will return to the film industry in near future?

I am an optimistic person. Hopefully, if we try collectively, the good days will return soon.

We have had a glorious past and I do believe that if we try sincerely, we revisit our golden era through our work.

Translated by Ayman Anika