Ushering in quality films

"This conference is a commendable effort to develop the taste of the nation in films. Foreign films should not be screened in movie theatres for commercial purposes. However, foreign films can encourage us by their participation and their ensuing competition," said Dr Anisuzzaman. "Films," he said, "usher in a large audience, stirred by the theme, plot and acting. Songs and direction also help greatly in making a film. Even making a small film is difficult and can be expensive." Only when actors and directors take a strong stand, he said, can the quality of our local films improve. He said that, the National Film Society, in viewing good films, is taking a positive stand. He concluded by commenting that good films improve the taste for a better life.

"The film industry in our country began its journey in 1959," pointed out Mahboob Jamil, noted filmmaker. "Most of our pioneering filmmakers", he said, "have now passed away". He said that, since the Liberation War, the filmmakers in Dhaka have proceeded with strength and determination, despite cheap sensationalism of commercial films from across the border and at home. "For a few years, since 1971," Jamil said, "attempts had been made to maintain high standards in films."

The conference, he said is to help the progress of our national films. "Vulgar and licentious films have been overlooked by the Censor Board at times, and I myself have resigned from the board," he castigated. "The board has overwhelmingly strong judicial power. At times, some of the ministries have been reportedly disturbed by its decisions. Similarly, outright copes of foreign films have been passed," said Jamil.

"However, the Censor Board, is a must for our cultural education," said Jamil. "Films have been passed through the board through the sheer strength of lobbying," he insisted. As a consequence, there is frustration and prevailing tension among serious art film makers, he said. The plots and themes should be in depth following the footsteps of masters like Satyajit Ray, he added. "Our films should stir the mind of the viewers and should bring genuine tears and smiles. Our films no longer try to maintain the standards of the classics. Also, symbolism should be evoked as that is important," he said.

Jamil went on to condemn the mindless "Bollywood" and "Dhallywood" films, which mar the local viewers' taste. "We could possibly raise funds and make good films in future. However, this will surely be limited to a coterie," he said. He concluded by pointing out that unlike our neighbouring countries, we speak one language. "That is a definite advantage and inspiration for everyone connected to Bangladeshi films," he said.

Morshedul Islam, the last speaker at the inaugural, said that the film conference had an academic side to it, and should generate interest in new films. This is despite the fact that the limited duration and relatively small audience could not encourage serious discussions. However, he said, the occasion should bring in large groups of film enthusiasts in the near future.