Festive fervour returns to cinemas as Eid releases pull crowds in Dhaka

Movie theatres across the capital witnessed overwhelming crowds during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, with the rush continuing today (23 March), the third day of Eid.

Five Bangla films were released this Eid, all of which generated significant buzz among viewers.

Audiences were seen standing in long queues to buy tickets.

While many praised the films, others expressed disappointment, particularly over what they described as weak storytelling.

Film stars, directors, and producers have been visiting cinema halls since the first day of Eid, interacting with audiences and sharing their experiences with the media.

The much-anticipated film "Prince", starring Shakib Khan, could not be screened in cineplexes on Eid day, leaving fans disappointed.

However, the issue was resolved by the third day, and the film was finally released in cineplexes.

Director Abu Hayat Mahmud said the movie has been running houseful shows from the start, with tickets selling out shortly after release.

Despite the strong turnout, audience reactions to Prince have been mixed.

Some viewers appreciated its big-budget visual effects, while many felt the storyline did not meet expectations.

Another Eid release, "Bonolota Express", has received widespread appreciation since the first day.

Featuring popular actors such as Mosharraf Karim, Chanchal Chowdhury, Shariful Raj, Azmeri Haque Badhon, and Sabila Nur, the film is directed by Tanim Noor.

Viewers said the film offers a compelling and enjoyable story, similar to the director's earlier work "Utsab".

Actor Chanchal Chowdhury said the film is running houseful shows, adding that audiences laughed, became emotional, and remained fully engaged with the story.

Actor Afran Nisho appeared this Eid with his third film "Domm", shot in Kazakhstan, where he stars opposite Puja Cherry.

The film has generated added excitement, marking director Redoan Rony's return after a decade and bringing Nisho and Chanchal Chowdhury together on screen for the first time.

Adding to its appeal, legendary singer Sabina Yasmin has re-recorded her iconic song "Ei Mon Tomake Dilam" for the film after 44 years.

However, Nisho urged fans to remain respectful, calling for an end to intentional negative criticism and unhealthy comparisons among actors.

Director Raihan Rafi also joined the Eid lineup with "Pressure Cooker", a female-centric film starring Shobnom Bubly, Nazifa Tushi, Maria Shanta, and Snigdha Chowdhury.

Unlike hero-driven films, it portrays aspects of women's lives in Dhaka.

While audiences appreciated its uniqueness, some felt it was not suitable for family viewing during Eid.

Critics, however, said the film stands out for breaking away from conventional storytelling.

Rafi said the film is receiving an overwhelming response, reflecting a broader resurgence of Bangla cinema.

Meanwhile, director Mehedi Hasan brought the action film "Rakkhosh", starring Siam Ahmed, which has also been drawing large audiences and running houseful shows.

Siam Ahmed said the film has been well received since the first day, with positive reviews continuing to attract more viewers.

With films finally hitting theatres after strong trailer promotions, a festive cinematic atmosphere has gripped audiences since Eid day.

Many families were seen attending screenings together, with viewers calling for more quality, family-friendly Bangla films in the future.