Bangladeshi film "Boli" has made its international debut in Canada after winning awards at several prestigious film festivals, including the Busan International Film Festival and the Shanghai Film Festival. The film premiered at the Central Parkway Cinema in Mississauga on September 27. Director Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury confirmed the news, stating, "We've released the film on a limited scale in Canada. The first show premiered yesterday, and audiences will be able to watch it throughout the week."
"Boli," which means "The Wrestler," is set against the backdrop of the traditional Jabbar er Boli Khela, a wrestling competition in Chattogram. The film beautifully showcases this unique cultural heritage. It was funded by the government during the fiscal year 2020-21 and produced by Piplu R Khan, with Saiful Azim and Gousul Alam Shaon as co-producers. Nasir Uddin Khan plays the lead role of a quirky fisherman, alongside co-stars Priyam Archie, Angel Noor, and AKM Itmam.
Last year, "Boli" gained international attention by winning an award at the 28th Busan International Film Festival, taking home the top prize in the New Currents section. Despite its success abroad, it has not yet been released in Bangladesh. However, Director Chowdhury has assured fans that the film will be shown in local cinemas soon. He said, "We are actively working on its domestic release.
The film has already been submitted to the Film Certification Board, and once we receive the clearance, we will lock in a release date. Our goal is to release 'Boli' in Bangladeshi theatres by the end of this year."
