Mohammad Nuruzzaman's feature film "Mastul" opened in five modern cinemas across Dhaka and Narayanganj on Friday.
The film is being released in its first phase in five theatres. At Star Cineplex's Bashundhara branch, it will have two daily screenings at 2pm and 7:30pm. Star Cineplex Narayanganj will also host two screenings daily.
The film is also screening at Jamuna Blockbuster, Lions Cinemas, and Narayanganj Cinescope.
Ahead of its theatrical release, "Mastul" was screened at the Russian Cultural Centre in Dhanmondi. The film received praise from filmmakers, writers, and cultural figures for its storytelling, performances, and technical execution.
Veteran filmmaker Masihuddin Shaker, filmmaker Shaheen Dill-Riaz, and Humaira Bilkis, among others, commended the director for portraying the lives of marginalized communities living and working around the country's rivers and ports.
Earlier this year, "Mastul" competed in the main competition section of the 47th Moscow International Film Festival, where it received a Special Mention.
The film follows Makbul, an ageing cook aboard a fuel tanker, and Noora, a street child from the port area. Through their relationship, it explores the lives of river- and port-dependent communities, focusing on loneliness, human connection, power struggles, and survival.
Fazlur Rahman Babu stars as Makbul, alongside Deepak Suman, Aminur Rahman Mukul, and Arif Hasan in key roles.
Produced by Cinemaker, "Mastul" is being digitally distributed and promoted by Tong Ghor Talkies. iScreen and Channel i are the film's OTT and television partners.
The film's cinematography is by Mohammad Arifuzzaman, production design by Husnain Lincoln, original score by Chaitanya Rajbanshi, and casting by Yubraj Shamim; the promotional song was composed by Labik Kamal Gaurob.
