Zarin Tasnim

Reflecting on "Annie Hall" is like revisiting an old friend—familiar yet complex, nostalgic yet blurred by the passage of time. Woody Allen's masterpiece has turned 47 today, and it has always been more than just a rom-com; it's a lens into the intricate dance of love and life, with all its quirks and imperfections.

Have you ever felt like you've swerved onto the wrong lane, entering an entirely different and unknown region? This sensation of disorientation and surrealism mirrors the sentiments that birthed the Greek Weird Wave—a captivating cinematic movement that emerged in response to Greece's tumultuous economic crisis of 2010.

As families across the globe prepare for Eid festivities, there's a new dish on the entertainment menu that's stirring up quite the comedic storm—"Crashing Eid" on Netflix. This Saudi original series is serving up laughter while challenging societal norms with a side of wit.

Ramy Youssef, the Egyptian-American comedian, isn't just crafting jokes; he's crafting conversations. Not only is he a funny man, but he is also a voice for a generation navigating complex socio-political landscapes. With his latest HBO special, "More Feelings," Youssef digs deep into societal issues, adeptly blending humour with poignant commentary on his experiences as a Muslim celebrity in America, offering a glimpse into his journey as a comedian, activist, and individual.

Jonathan Glazer's film "The Zone of Interest” has carved a haunting niche in cinematic history, digging deep into the abyss of Nazi Germany's atrocities with chilling resonance. Unveiling the banality of evil and the human capacity for self-justification, Glazer orchestrates a symphony of sound and imagery that leaves an indelible mark on the psyche of viewers.

In the vast landscape of television series, few manage to capture the complexity of human relationships and the struggles of everyday life quite like "Shrinking". With a star-studded cast led by Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, this Apple TV+ comedy drama dives deep into the intricacies of therapy, grief, and redemption, offering viewers a refreshing take on the mid-life crisis narrative.

In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, where talent shines brightly but rarely remains constant, one name has consistently emerged as a beacon of versatility: Oscar Isaac. With a magnetic presence both on and off-screen, Isaac has captivated audiences worldwide with his extraordinary range, imbuing each character he portrays with an authenticity that resonates long after the credits roll. From indie darlings to blockbuster hits, Isaac's trajectory in the film industry has been nothing short of remarkable.

In the realm of cinematic storytelling, few genres wield as much power as satire. It’s a weapon of wit, capable of slicing through societal norms and revealing the absurdities hidden within. In the case of "American Fiction", Cord Jefferson's directorial debut, satire takes centre stage. However, it's just one facet of a gemstone of a film that shines brightly in its exploration of race, family dynamics, and the complexities of artistic identity.

Taylor Tomlinson's latest comedy special, "Have It All," is a tour de force that seamlessly blends humour with reflections on life's complexities. Premiered on Valentine's Day, this Netflix gem takes audiences on a journey through the highs and lows of Taylor's personal and professional life, all while eliciting genuine laughter and introspection.

In a momentous occasion set to mark a significant milestone in the world of Bengali cinema, the inaugural Suchitra Sen International Bengali Film Festival is set to grace the bustling streets of New York City. With anticipation brewing and excitement mounting, Bengali cinema aficionados worldwide eagerly await the grand debut of this cinematic extravaganza.

Richard Linklater's "Before Sunset" continues to stand the test of time as a captivating portrayal of love, conversation, and the ineffable allure of Paris since its premiere at the Berlin International Film Fest (Berlinale) 20 years ago on this day. The film remains a shining example of cinematic intimacy, relying solely on the dialogue between its two protagonists to weave a profoundly romantic narrative.

In cinema, Love is often depicted as a grand, sweeping force that transforms lives and provides the pinnacle of human experience. However, Richard Linklater's “Before” trilogy, particularly the first installment, “Before Sunrise”, challenges these conventional notions of romance and love. Released over a quarter of a century ago, the film takes a unique approach in steering away from cinematic tropes and embracing a more authentic portrayal of love.

The onset of postmodern cinema in the grand scheme of Hollywood filmmaking began in the 1980s, reflecting and influencing the historical fusion of media culture, technology, and consumerism. Postmodern cinema is distinguished by disjointed narratives, a dark view of the human condition, images of chaos alongside random violence, the death of the hero, an emphasis on technique over content, and dystopian views of the future. The genre departs from the modernist cultural tradition established on the Enlightenment, industrial society norms, and faith in historical progress.

Ahmed Hasan Sunny, a rising star in the music industry, has seen a rapid ascent to fame. Yet he holds steadfast to his artistic principles and personal identity, unruffled by the allure of fame or commercial success. He drops by The Daily Star’s studio for a brief chat.

Justine Triet's Cannes Palme d'Or and Golden Globe-winning masterpiece, "Anatomy of a Fall", transcends the boundaries of traditional cinema, diving into the labyrinthine intricacies of human connections. A mesmerising portrayal by Sandra Hüller adds an intensely personal touch to this gripping French drama, where love's mysteries unfold against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps.

Leaving the comforting cocoon of home after school or college is a step into a world of newfound independence, adventure, and responsibility. In Bangladesh, this transition can be particularly daunting, with the shift from the warmth of family to the solitary rhythm of daily life. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the chores and the pursuit of education or career aspirations, there's a silent companion that we often overlook - our beloved TV series. They aren't just shows; they've evolved into our family members, offering solace and companionship in those hours when the walls echo with solitude.

The realm of cinema witnessed an unprecedented wave of creative brilliance – marking 2023 as a year that not only revitalised theaters but also set the stage ablaze with an unrivaled array of cinematic masterpieces. This year the silver screen transformed into a magnificent canvas, showcasing an eclectic mix of captivating narratives that enthralled audiences worldwide.

As news of Andre Braugher's passing echoes through the hearts of fans, a profound sense of loss settles, a loss that extends beyond the screen, into the very fabric of our lives. For many of us, rewatching all the cold openings of Captain Holt on YouTube won't be the same. It's as if a cherished friend, a beacon of wisdom and humour, has departed, leaving a void that cannot easily be filled.

A delicate balance between grim reality and dramatisation is required to dig into the portrayal of real-life tragedies. Netflix's "The Railway Men" is a gripping portrayal that intertwines the narrative of railway employees with the haunting reality of the Bhopal disaster of 1984. This series artfully weaves together the tale of human endeavour, and corporate negligence, while also serving as a poignant homage to the remarkable human spirit and resilience amidst tragedy. The show delves into the lives of those involved in a real-life incident by shedding light on a chapter of history often overshadowed by the enormity of its sorrow.

In the world of Bangla rap, few names carry as much weight and influence as Black Zang. His journey, intricately entwined with the rise of Bangla rap culture, is a testament to artistic evolution, cultural amalgamation, and the power of storytelling through music. In the vibrant and ever-evolving realm of hip-hop music, Black Zang stands out as a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.