13th Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival opens at ULAB

The 13th Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF) commenced on 18 June at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) permanent campus, highlighting the event's growing influence in the region's independent filmmaking scene.

Professor Sumon Rahman, Head of the Department of Media Studies and Journalism (MSJ), welcomed attendees. Professor Shamsad Mortuza, Vice Chancellor of ULAB, then gave opening remarks.

"DIMFF began as a modest initiative but has evolved into an international platform," Professor Shamsad Mortuza said. "Its core aim is to show that filmmakers do not require large production budgets—a simple mobile phone suffices to tell compelling stories."

The opening session included a 'Vision & Journey' segment and a cultural performance, setting the tone for the festival's commitment to creative expression.

As part of the programme, Sohan Sheikh, Festival Director of DIMFF 2027, hosted the Dhaka Film Project Market and introduced the DIMFF 2027 executive committee.

The executive committee comprises Sohan Sheikh (Festival Director), Nur Shahad Seabon (HR and Accounts), Israt Jahan Labonno (Festival Coordinator), Shahariar Sifat (PR and Media Manager), Nahadi Zaman (Social Affairs Manager), Farhan Hossian Behvor (Content Manager), and Shanto Roy Orko (Production Manager).

After the introductory programme, a festival promo screening and a showcase of award-winning films preceded the subsequent sessions.

After a short break, a panel discussion titled 'Beyond the Box Office' brought together filmmakers and producers to discuss recent projects and share behind-the-scenes insights.

Speakers included Md Shanjid (Co-Producer, Malik), Masud Hasan Ujjal (Director and Producer, Bonolota Sen), Rhizuti Ahmed Sharna (Associate Producer, Rockstar; Producer, Pinwheel Films), Shimul Chandra Biswas (Producer, Roid), Monirul Haque Akash (Director, Writer and Producer, The University of Chankharpul), and Md Hafizuddin Munna (Executive Producer and Distributor, The University of Chankharpul).

The session was moderated by Mir Wadud Islam.

During the discussion, the producer of Roid commented, "A high budget does not guarantee a real film if it lacks the director's vision. Some projects will succeed, while others may not."

The producer of Malik remarked: "Fame is irrelevant; the true star is the actor who conveys the story most effectively."

The panel discussion was followed by a Cine'Ta Talk featuring actress Nazifa Tushi in conversation with Rubaiya Anhar Oishe, continuing the festival's focus on personal reflections from the film industry. Tushi reflected on her experience in the film industry.

"In twenty years, I hope to tell myself not to feel insecure about ageing or grey hair. I want to embrace every version of myself," she said.

Syeda Sadia Mehjabin, Advisor of DIMFF, hosted the ceremony.

"Everyone fears taking risks, but without risk, there is no achievement. If challenges arise, I am here. DIMFF is ours," she said.

The festival concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Andalib Rubayat, Senior Lecturer, bringing the programme to a close.

Following the closing remarks, guests, faculty members and DIMFF volunteers participated in an official photo session.

The event concluded with a cultural performance.