Renowned director Kazi Hayat has made numerous commercially successful films in his career. In recognition of this, he has won several international awards and honors, including the National Film Award. The talented director spoke to Ittefaq about various aspects of the industry, including his new film.
How much work has been completed on the film 'Joy Bangla'?
The shooting of the first batch of the film has been completed. Dubbing is now underway. We will start shooting the remaining parts once we receive the money for the second batch.
What is the background of the film's story and what is special about it?
First of all, 'Joy Bangla' is a film about the Liberation War. A government-funded film. Its story revolves around December 6, 1968, to December 16, 1971. A total of 3 Rabindra Sangeet songs have been used in the film's story. Besides, I had said earlier that no one will be able to wear makeup in this film. Hero Bappi Chowdhury and heroine Zahara Mitu are shooting here without makeup. When the work is finished, you will understand how it was.
What are the challenges faced in making historical films in the current context?
No, I don't think there is any such obstacle. In fact, if there is a will, there is a way. Such films may not be commercially successful. But I think more historical films need to be made.
Recently, producers are focusing on story-based works. Would you call this audience demand or a change in the genre of films?
Due to the changing audience, the genre of films is also changing a bit. The previous marginal audience no longer watches films. Now those who watch new films on mobile or apps are wealthy and educated. Their tastes are also different. Therefore, producers are also trying to make films keeping their tastes in mind.
How helpful will the practice of releasing films on OTT in addition to theaters be in resolving the crisis?
Look, there has always been a film crisis, and there still is. But it is impossible to say when and through which medium the audience will settle down. Now, there are various means of watching films. The purpose of making a film is for the audience to watch it and the producer to get money. But now the audience is not paying money. That is why producers and makers are coming up with various means. Overall, when a film is successful, the producers will get their investment back.
It is rumored that senior producers are staying away because they are getting work. What would you comment on this issue?
No, it's not like that. Even when we came to new films, seniors rarely got work. I have seen directors like Kamal Ahmed, Narayan Ghosh Mita, Shibli Sadiq sitting in the directors' association! Shibli Bhai even said regretfully, 'Hayat, when I learned how to make films properly, I was left out. Now no one calls me anymore.' In fact, many people think that they will not be able to make films when they are old! That is why seniors are not able to work.
But don't you think this will de-invent the industry?No, why should it be talentless? Now many talented filmmakers are coming into films and doing good work. Our main problem is that the audience is watching the films but the producers are not getting money.
