Rubaiyat Hossain’s latest film, "The Difficult Bride," received positive responses at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it is representing Bangladesh in the Centrepiece section.
The psychological horror drama was screened at TIFF Lightbox on September 16, followed by a second screening on September 17. A third screening was scheduled for September 19 at Scotiabank Theatre.
The screenings prompted discussions among international audiences about women’s freedom, beauty standards and social expectations.
American viewer John described the film as a horror story that also explores emotional conflicts. He praised its use of supernatural elements to represent inner fears and personal struggles rather than relying solely on conventional horror techniques.
Canadian viewer J said the film effectively portrays a woman’s journey toward freedom. She described the central character as being trapped in a “golden cage” and highlighted the final sequence, in which she breaks away from social restrictions.
Another Canadian viewer, Maya, praised the film’s portrayal of women, while Suzanne Smith highlighted its exploration of beauty standards, social class differences in Bangladesh, and pressures surrounding women’s appearances.
Canadian filmmaker Mehedi also highlighted the film’s themes of body acceptance and self-acceptance, describing its discussion of feminism as an important element.
The film marks Hossain’s return to TIFF after seven years. Her 2019 film "Made in Bangladesh" was screened in the festival’s Contemporary World Cinema section.
"The Difficult Bride" arrived at TIFF after becoming the first Bangladeshi feature film selected for the Orizzonti section of the Venice International Film Festival.
Speaking about the Toronto screenings, Hossain said all three shows were sold out and described the audience response as encouraging.
“Hundreds of films are shown here. It is almost like a conference or convention. The audience waits for this festival throughout the year,” she said.
Addressing questions about the film’s use of snails, earthworms, snakes, and lizards, Hossain said the creatures were not intended as direct symbols but were used to create physical and emotional reactions among viewers.
“My intention was that after watching the film, viewers would feel something in their own bodies,” she said.
Following TIFF, the film is scheduled to screen at the BFI London Film Festival and the Chicago International Film Festival.
Set in contemporary Dhaka, "The Difficult Bride" explores beauty, marriage, femininity and social control through psychological horror, supernatural elements and South Asian folklore.
The film stars newcomer Zaineen Chowdhury Karim alongside Azmeri Haque Badhan, Reekita Nondine Shimu, Sunerah Binte Kamal, Shatabdi Wadud, Saberi Alam and Mohammed Bari.
