A short documentary film called "LATIKA" by Bangladeshi filmmaker Samsul Islam Shopon has been officially selected for the Divvy Film Festival in London. The festival, which took place from July 5 to July 7,features films from across South Asia. Shopon's film, funded by the British Council-UK, tells the story of a struggling woman from the Malo community living on the banks of the Chitra river in Narail district, Bangladesh.
The main character, Latika, is depicted alongside her husband, Shyam Biswas, a fisherman, and their two children. The film provides a touching portrayal of their challenging family life.
Shopon is thrilled that "LATIKA" has been chosen for this prestigious event. The film festival showcases 41 feature, short, and documentary films from countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. The screenings were held at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) in London.
"LATIKA" has already gained international recognition. It was selected for the VdR-Film Market at the 55th Visions Du Reel International Film Festival in Switzerland. It was also screened at the 23rd Wow-Wales One World Film Festival and the Chittagong International Film Festival.
In addition to "LATIKA," other notable films at the Divvy Film Festival included "A Night of Knowing Nothing" by Payal Kapadia, "Wakhri" by Iram Parveen Bilal, "Sri Lanka’s Rebel Wife" by Kanan Arunasalam, "A State in Silence" by Ruvin De Silver, "Sandstorm" by Seemab Gul,
and "Lori" by Avinash Vikram
Shah.
Shopon expressed his excitement about the selection of "LATIKA." He shared that in 2022, he received an 'International Collaboration Grant' from the British Council-UK, Dhaka DocLab, and Wow-Wales One World Film Festival, which enabled the production of "LATIKA." Additionally, his full-length documentary film "Bhonor Majhir Etikotha - The Tale of An Angler And His Otters" won the 'Exposition of Young Film Talent 2022' Project Award organized by the Liberation War Museum and Liberation Docfest Bangladesh.
Shopon's journey from corporate life to a quieter life on the banks of the Chitra river has been marked by his dedication to filmmaking and storytelling. His works continue to receive acclaim and highlight important stories from Bangladesh to the world.
