Utshob celebrates Bangladeshi cinema
Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Utshob was filled with a warm blur of colours, music and nostalgia. It takes you on a trip to the 90s, the simpler times, and ensures that you smile through the entire duration of the film.
The young and adult Abu Nizar Jahangir, our very own Ebenezer Scrooge, are beautifully brought to life by Shommo Jyoti and Zahid Hasan, respectively. Sadia Ayman and Afsana Mimi bring soft elegance to Jesmin’s character. The ghosts of Christmas are paralleled by Chanchal Chowdhury, Jaya Ahsan and Aupee Karim.
Mockingly nicknamed by the kids of the neighbourhood, ‘khaishta’ Jahangir is abhorred by everyone. He is stingy and uptight unlike his elder cousin, Mobarak. Played by Tariq Anam Khan with gravitas, Mobarak is famous for his effervescent personality. He is the heart of the community, spreading joy every year with his Chaad Raat celebrations. When Mobarak passes away on one such night, Jahangir’s stubborn shell begins to fracture. What follows is a beautiful story of grief, love, and life. As memories begin to haunt and heal, Utshob becomes an archetype of precisely timed humour, phenomenal acting and a heartwarming masterpiece.
Interestingly enough, this is what sets the movie apart from other Eid blockbusters — its rather radical approach in presenting a mellow story instead of a typical hero-villain camaraderie. Here, the storytelling stands taller than any character and reminds you that even a glance turned away can bend fate.
On a final note, Utshob feels like a breath of fresh air among the cacophony of your usual Eid entertainment. It promises a sense of reminiscence and delivers it to perfection. Undoubtedly, it makes you travel to the good old days. Go watch it (not without your family) and rest assured, you will leave the theatre with tears of happiness!
