'ALI' wins Special Mention at 78th Cannes Film Festival

The short film, 'ALI', has recently stayed atop headlines as it brought home Bangladesh's first ever win at Cannes Film Festival with Special Mention from the Short Films Jury.
Directed by Adnan Al Rajeev, the story is set in a coastal town where women are forbidden to sing. As a teenager joins a singing competition in the hopes of a future in the city, he hides his true voice in a sinister way.
The short film stars debut actor Al Amin, who was present at the award ceremony.
The film was also produced by Tanveer Hossain and Kristine De Leon under katalog., making the production company's first win as well.
In a conversation with journalists at the film festival, the director had shared his thoughts on the film.
"This film is dedicated to people who are oppressed and forced to stay silent. We talk about raising our voices, speaking out loud and clear, which is something that's crucial for everyone," he shared. "I dedicate Ali to everyone who is silenced. This is a plea we are making for people to make their voices heard."
Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Adviser on Cultural Affairs, congratulated the team on their win on social media, writing, "Congratulations Adnan Al Rajeev and team Ali for winning special jury mention at Festival de Cannes! Very very proud of you all."