Never seen sets on BFDC like this before: Badhan shares shooting ‘Bonolota Express’
National Film Award-winning actress Azmeri Haque Badhan has begun shooting for her latest film, “Bonolota Express”, directed by renowned filmmaker Tanim Noor, known for his acclaimed work in “Utshob”. Badhan shared her experience with The Daily Star.
“The sets at Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) were incredible. We’ve shot a significant portion already, and the remaining scenes will be filmed in a forest somewhere in the country. The work we’ve done so far has been fantastic. I don’t recall any previous shoot in BFDC with such elaborate set designs,” Badhan said.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. “Bonolota Express” is based on Humayun Ahmed’s novel “Kichukkhon” and Badhan expressed her excitement about the project. When asked if this film would surpass the popularity of “Utshob”, she confidently replied, “I believe ‘Bonolota Express’ will be commercially successful, and people will accept it with love, even more than ‘Utshob’.”
The script, penned by Samiul Bhuiyan and Ayman Asib Shadhin, has been carefully crafted to reflect the humour and charm of Humayun Ahmed’s storytelling. “Every dialogue will make the audience smile. Humayun Ahmed Sir had a unique way of drawing readers in, and the script captures that perfectly,” Badhan explained.
The film revolves around a train and its passengers, weaving together multiple life stories. Badhan stars opposite Chanchal Chowdhury, marking their first collaboration in cinema, although they have performed together in theatre. “Chanchal is a wonderful co-actor—helpful and cooperative. I’m confident audiences will love our pairing,” she said.
In “Bonolota Express”, Badhan portrays Surma, a role she has never played before. “Audiences will see me in a new light. It’s a very different character, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience,” she added.
Badhan also revealed her longstanding admiration for Humayun Ahmed, stating she reread the short novel multiple times before shooting. “I own all of his books and have read them all. Revisiting this one before filming was a joy,” she shared.
Speaking about the film’s crew, Badhan praised the team: “It’s an exceptional and highly organised group. Each department is meticulously coordinated, which makes the shoot so smooth.” She also commended Tanim Noor, calling him a “brilliant director who understands the craft and knows how to make a good film.”
Reflecting on her journey with Humayun Ahmed’s works, Badhan admitted, “I missed the opportunity to work on ‘Daruchini Dwip’ due to exams, so this project is particularly special. My daughter even watched ‘Utshob’ and insisted I act in this film. I’ve always wanted to collaborate with Tanin Noor, so this feels perfect.”
Badhan revealed another exciting update that she has signed on for a new film, expected to start shooting after the elections. Additionally, her film “Master”, directed by Rezwan Shahriar, has been selected for the Rotterdam International Film Festival, and Badhan will attend the event herself.
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