‘Roid’ selected for review on a major US national broadcast platform

Director Mejbaur Rahman Sumon's acclaimed film “Roid” continues to garner international recognition, with the film achieving a significant milestone in North America. Distributed in the United States and Canada by Bioscope Films, “Roid” has become the first Bangla-language film to be selected for official review across the network of America's renowned National Public Radio (NPR).

The achievement marks a historic moment for Bangladeshi cinema. NPR, one of the most influential public broadcasting organisations in the United States, operates through more than 1,000 radio stations nationwide and regularly features in-depth discussions and reviews of films by some of the world's most celebrated filmmakers, including Steven Spielberg.

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Industry observers note that visibility on major international broadcast platforms can play an important role in raising a film's profile ahead of prestigious awards campaigns, including the Oscars and the BAFTAs. As part of its ongoing efforts to promote Bangla cinema globally, Bioscope Films selected "Roid" as its 55th international distribution venture and released the film in multiple cinemas across the United States and Canada.

According to Bioscope Films, NPR carefully evaluates a film's content, context and artistic significance before considering it for its review segment. 

Following initial discussions with the distributor, the organisation reviews a screener and supporting materials before making a final decision on whether to feature the film.

This selection makes “Roid” the first Bangladeshi film to reach such a milestone on a major American national broadcast platform.

Speaking about the achievement, Raj Hamid, founder of Bioscope Films, shared on a press note, “Every year, we strive to position at least one Bangla film for recognition on the highest international platforms. We know the journey is not an easy one, but it is certainly not impossible. Step by step, we want to carry the flag of Bangla cinema to a wider global audience. Having “Roid” selected by America's national public radio network is a major accomplishment for us.”

Director Mejbaur Rahman Sumon expressed his delight at the news, saying, “I made this film out of love and a deep personal connection to the story. Since then, it has continued to reach audiences in different parts of the world. As a filmmaker, it is immensely gratifying to know that a Bangladeshi film will be discussed on such a prominent American national platform.”

“Roid” stars Mostafizur Noor Imran and Nazifa Tushi in the lead roles, while veteran actor Gazi Rakayet plays a key supporting character. The film has been produced by Bongo and Facecard.