Nishat Anjum Maria :
“Uthshob is running successfully – not just in your nearest cinema hall, but in your heart.”
This tagline aptly captures the essence of Uthshob, a heartfelt and vibrant addition to contemporary Bangladeshi cinema. Premiering during Eid-al-Adha 2025, the film is directed by Tanim Noor, who draws inspiration from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and masterfully adapts its core narrative into the cultural context of Dhaka during the Eid festival.
Rather than a direct retelling, Uthshob reimagines Dickens’ classic through the lens of local traditions, communal struggles, and the redemptive power of self-reflection. It blends humour, emotion, drama, and social commentary in a way that resonates widely, making it one of the standout films in Bangladesh’s cinematic landscape this year.
Zahid Hasan delivers a remarkable performance as Jahangir, a cold-hearted and profit-driven man who forms the emotional core of the story. Jahangir’s transformation begins following the tragic death of his cousin Mobarak during a Chand Raat performance. Grief-stricken, he begins to isolate himself from loved ones. Hasan captures Jahangir’s internal conflict with nuance, allowing the audience to feel his struggle with loss, greed, and guilt – a journey that ultimately leads to redemption.
The film’s emotional and narrative arc is driven by three ghostly characters – not designed to frighten, but to amuse and enlighten. Chanchal Chowdhury takes Jahangir on a journey to his past, Jaya Ahsan revisits his present, and Aupee Karim offers a vision of his future.
Each performance brings distinct energy and depth to their role: Chowdhury’s portrayal evokes nostalgia for lost joys; Ahsan urges Jahangir to reassess his current choices and their social impact; and Karim delivers a sobering vision of a future shaped by continued selfishness.
Together, they help craft a compelling exploration of time, memory, and personal accountability.
Tanim Noor’s direction is confident and thoughtful, seamlessly contextualising the timeless Dickensian tale within the spirit of Eid. The storytelling unfolds organically, drawing viewers into its emotional core.
Rashed Zaman’s cinematography captures the vibrant energy of the Eid festival, while the film’s production design, costumes, and sets enhance the authenticity and warmth of the narrative. Eid is portrayed not just as a celebration, but as a living embodiment of community and culture. The soundtrack – an evocative blend of traditional Bangladeshi music and modern soundscapes – further enriches the emotional resonance of the film.
At its core, Uthshob offers a critique of materialism and the erosion of communal values in the age of modern capitalism. Jahangir’s personal transformation underscores the importance of roots, compassion, and connection. The film’s message is clear and powerful: redemption is possible, and the spirit of community remains a vital force in human lives.
More than a festive film, Uthshob is a deeply moving narrative about grief, reflection, and the enduring power of human connection. Its stellar ensemble cast – featuring beloved icons such as Zahid Hasan, Chanchal Chowdhury, Jaya Ahsan, Aupee Karim, Afsana Mimi, and Tariq Anam Khan – adds an extra layer of nostalgia for audiences familiar with Bangladeshi television and cinema since the 1990s.
Whether you are a fan of family drama, a lover of culturally grounded stories, or simply seeking a film that offers both heart and hope, Uthshob is a must-watch. It rightfully earns its place among the defining films of 2025.
For those who missed its cinema release, Uthshob is set to stream on the OTT platform Chorki from 7 August – a second chance to experience this moving tale that deserves to be seen and remembered.
(Maria, a student at BRAC University, is currently doing an internship at The New Nation.)
