Local films line up for Eid-ul-Azha release

As the Eid-ul-Azha holidays approach, Bangladesh's film industry is preparing for a rare moment of cinematic abundance. For the first time in years, moviegoers will have an unusually rich selection of local films—from action thrillers and romantic dramas to mystery and satire—all vying for attention at the box office.

The stage is set for an Eid showdown not just between stars, but between genres, ambitions, and visions of what Bangladeshi cinema can be.

At the centre of the buzz is "Taandob", a political thriller directed by Raihan Rafi. Superstar Shakib Khan leads the cast alongside Jaya Ahsan and Sabila Nur in a story about an orchestrated attack on a television station.

High-octane and unapologetically dramatic, the film blends suspense with the urgency of newsroom chaos. Rafi has hinted that "Taandob" is his most intense film yet—a claim that's raised expectations significantly, especially given Shakib Khan's star power and Jaya's reputation for choosing socially conscious scripts.

On the opposite end of the genre spectrum is "Esha Murder", a crime drama with a feminist twist. Helmed by Sunny Sanwar, the film casts Azmeri Haque Badhon—fresh off international acclaim—as a no-nonsense police officer investigating a murder that's anything but straightforward.

"It's the kind of character I've been waiting to play," Badhon told The Daily Star.  The film marks her first role as a law enforcement officer and could signal a new era of strong, nuanced female leads in Bangladeshi thrillers.

Mosharraf Karim, one of Bangladesh's most versatile actors, returns to the big screen with Insaaf, an action drama that explores the blurry line between justice and retribution.

Co-starring Sariful Razz and Tasnia Farin, "Insaaf "comes with all the trappings of a commercial potboiler, but early buzz suggests it also carries political undertones. Directed by Sanjoy Somadder, the film seems poised to appeal to both mainstream and more discerning audiences.

Adding to the Eid mix is "Neel Chokro", a family-friendly thriller from director Mithu Khan. The film marks Arifin Shuvoo's much-anticipated return after a quiet spell. Paired with rising talent Mondera Chakroborty, Shuvoo's role promises suspense layered with emotional complexity. While the plot has been kept under wraps, promotional material hints at a narrative grounded in memory, loss, and moral choices.

Meanwhile, veteran actor Zahid Hasan steps back into cinema with "Utshob", directed by Tanim Noor. Known for his stage and television work, the actor hasn't headlined a major film in years, and his return has stirred nostalgia among fans.

For audiences looking for something softer, "Tagar", starring Puja Chery and Ador Azad, offers a romantic drama tinged with melodrama. Directed by Aalok Hasan, the film leans into traditional love-story tropes, but its sleek visuals and youthful cast might attract a younger crowd.

And then there's "Pinik", a revenge drama led by Shobnom Bubly, also featuring Ador Azad. The trailer hints at a personal vendetta playing out against a dark urban backdrop—gritty, loud, and emotionally charged. Director Zahid Jewel has described it as "a woman's journey through rage and resilience."

Interestingly, "Utshob" is also the title of another Eid release—this one starring Sunerah Binte Kamal. Known for her Bangladesh National Film Award-winning performance in "No Dorai", Sunerah''s return is eagerly awaited.

Tanim Noor's film—separate from Hasan's version—focuses on family dynamics and identity, though plot specifics are still under wraps. Whether the title overlaps is a coincidence or clever marketing remains to be seen, but it certainly adds a layer of intrigue.

With eight diverse films lined up, this Eid is shaping up to be a rare moment of experimentation and ambition in Bangladeshi cinema. Whether audiences are drawn by big names, daring stories, or fresh faces, the box office will serve as the ultimate jury.