Badhon: There is more to this journey than awards

Published at 12:20 am July 17th, 2021

Azmeri Haque Badhon, centre, with her co-stars and co-workers from the film Rehana Maryam Noor at the 74th Cannes International Film Festival Courtesy

Full list of Un Certain Regard winners of Cannes 2021 are given below

Director Abdullah Mohammad Saad’s second feature “Rehana Maryam Noor” was officially selected in the “Un Certain Regard” section of the 74th Cannes Film Festival. Un Certain Regard Award for Best Film, Best Director, Best Performance, Jury Prize, Special Jury Prize, and Coup de Cœur Award are the six titles that were conferred on July 16.

Although Bangladeshi film "Rehana Mariyam Noor" did not receive any awards at this ceremony, which was held around midnight Bangladesh time at the Debussy Theatre, it could not dampen the spirits of film lovers cheering for every milestone this film has reached so far.

Also read: Anurag Kashyap: 'Rehana Maryam Noor is one of the most powerful films from Indian subcontinent'

Lead actor Azmeri Haque Badhon told Dhaka Tribune Showtime: "All the honour that we have been given, since the very day we learned that our film had been selected for Cannes to the successful premiere of RMN, to the widespread support from fans and well wishers around the globe, is simply incredible. Winning any award is always the cherry on top. But there is of course more to this journey than the awards."

"Rehana Mariyam Noor" is the first Bangladeshi feature and the only South Asian film to have been selected in this section.

"Personally I think our director Saad is very deserving. He is an outstandingly honest and hardworking filmmaker. All the credits should go to him."

She added, "Having our film screened at Cannes is only the first step for our country. I am confident that we will take many such steps and have a long prosperous way ahead."

The actor also took a moment to indulge in national pride. "In my opinion, our people are born with an undeniable sense of vitality. There is no lack for creativity among the men and women in Bangladesh. All we need is proper platforms to hone our skills."