The Dark Side of Dhaka (2021) Cast, Story & Release Date — Complete Bollywood Movie Details
The Dark Side of Dhaka (2021) Cast, Story & Release Date — Complete Bollywood Movie Details
The Dark Side of Dhaka, a 2021 Bengali crime drama thriller film directed by Raihan Rafi, is a cinematic odyssey that delves into the uncharted territories of Dhaka's underbelly. On the surface, it appears to be a collection of five individual stories, each a self-contained narrative that explores the human condition in the face of adversity. However, as the film progresses, it becomes apparent that these stories are inextricably linked, forming a complex web of relationships that reveal the dark side of the capital city. What begins as a seemingly innocuous tale of everyday people living their lives in Dhaka gradually unravels to expose the city's seedy underbelly, where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, and the notion of morality is constantly challenged. This is what makes The Dark Side of Dhaka a compelling watch, especially for Hindi cinema audiences who are accustomed to the glitz and glamour of Bollywood. The film's gritty realism, coupled with its thought-provoking themes, makes it a refreshing departure from the usual fare, and its exploration of Dhaka's dark side is a bold and unflinching portrayal of the city's complexities.
Quick Facts
| Release Date | 10 June 2021 |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| Language | Bengali |
| Runtime | 1h 17m |
| Director | Raihan Rafi |
| Producer | Shaikh Azizur Rahman |
| Writer | Raihan Rafi |
| Cinematography | Raju Raj |
Story & Plot
The narrative background of The Dark Side of Dhaka is rooted in the city's social and economic landscape. The film's writer and director, Raihan Rafi, has woven a tale that is both a commentary on the societal ills that plague Dhaka and a tribute to the resilience of its people. Through the five interconnected stories, Rafi explores major themes such as corruption, inequality, and the struggle for survival in a city that seems to be constantly on the brink of chaos. The emotional conflicts that drive the characters' actions are deeply human and relatable, making it easy for audiences to become invested in their journeys. The setting of the film, Dhaka's dark alleys and crowded streets, is a character in its own right, adding to the sense of unease and tension that pervades the narrative. The tone of the film is unflinching and unapologetic, never shying away from the harsh realities of life in Dhaka. The pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the audience to absorb the complexity of the narrative and the emotions that accompany it. Overall, The Dark Side of Dhaka is a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling film that will leave audiences questioning the very fabric of society.
Cast & Crew
The lead cast of The Dark Side of Dhaka consists of Sharaf Ahmed Zibon, Tama Mirza, Manoj Kumar Pramanik, Nazifa Tushi, Khairul Basar, and Samia Othoi, each of whom brings a unique energy to their respective roles. Sharaf Ahmed Zibon, in particular, shines as the protagonist of one of the five stories, bringing a depth and nuance to his character that is rare in contemporary Bengali cinema. Tama Mirza, on the other hand, is a revelation as a complex and multifaceted character who defies easy categorization. Manoj Kumar Pramanik, Nazifa Tushi, Khairul Basar, and Samia Othoi all deliver solid performances that add to the film's overall impact. The chemistry between the lead cast members is palpable, and their interactions are often electrifying. The supporting cast, too, is impressive, with each member bringing their own brand of authenticity to the film.
Lead Cast
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Sharaf Ahmed Zibon | Actor |
| Tama Mirza | Actor |
| Manoj Kumar Pramanik | Actor |
| Nazifa Tushi | Actor |
| Khairul Basar | Actor |
| Samia Othoi | Actor |
| Nasir Uddin Khan | Actor |
| Iqbal Hossain | Actor |
| Jahangir Alam | Actor |
| R.a. Rahul | Actor |
| Saif Imam | Actor |
| Farhad Limon | Actor |
| Sayem Samad | Actor |
| Piyal | Actor |
| Ashraf Hossain Tulu | Actor |
| Azaz Bari | Actor |
| Shakkho Sahid | Actor |
| Taiful Chowdhury Shadhin | Actor |
| Sanjoy Nath | Actor |
| Pothik Shohel | Actor |
| Anwar Hossain | Actor |
| Raja Pathan | Actor |
| Rajib Ahmed | Actor |
| Shohan | Actor |
| Jahid | Actor |
| Faruk | Actor |
| Rafik | Actor |
| Udoy | Actor |
| Hashmi | Actor |
| Rashed Mamun Apu | Actor |
| Raihan Rafi | Director |
| Simit Ray Antor | Director |
| Raihan Rafi | Story |
| Nazim Ud Daula | Screenplay |
| Shaikh Azizur Rahman | Executive Producer |
| Raju Raj | Director of Photography |
| Jahid Nirob | Original Music Composer |
Key Crew
See the full crew breakdown in Quick Facts above, including director, producer, music direction, writing, cinematography, and editing credits.
Director's Vision
Raihan Rafi's filmmaking style in The Dark Side of Dhaka is a masterclass in subtlety and restraint. He eschews flashy camerawork and instead relies on a more understated approach that allows the audience to focus on the narrative. The cinematography, handled by Raju Raj, is stark and unflinching, capturing the gritty reality of life in Dhaka's dark alleys and crowded streets. Rafi's visual language is deeply rooted in the city's culture and history, and he incorporates elements of Bengali cinema's golden age into his narrative. The result is a film that is both a love letter to Dhaka and a scathing critique of its darker aspects. Rafi's creative ambition is evident in every frame, and his willingness to take risks and push boundaries is a testament to his skill as a filmmaker.
Music & Soundtrack
One of the most striking aspects of The Dark Side of Dhaka is its complete absence of a soundtrack. The film relies on the sounds of the city itself to create a sense of tension and unease, and the result is a cinematic experience that is both immersive and unsettling. The background score, too, is minimal, adding to the overall sense of realism that pervades the narrative. The musical mood of the film is somber and reflective, perfectly capturing the mood of a city that seems to be constantly on the brink of chaos.
Official Trailer
Where to Watch
The Dark Side of Dhaka had a limited theatrical release in Bangladesh, where it premiered on June 10, 2021. However, the film's impact was felt far beyond the confines of the cinema hall, with audiences and critics alike praising its unflinching portrayal of life in Dhaka. The film's cinematic experience is one that is not to be missed, with its stark visuals and thought-provoking themes making it a must-watch for anyone interested in contemporary Bengali cinema.
Why Watch The Dark Side of Dhaka?
The Dark Side of Dhaka has generated a significant amount of buzz in the film industry, with many praising its bold and unflinching portrayal of life in Dhaka. The film's exploration of major themes such as corruption, inequality, and the struggle for survival in a city that seems to be constantly on the brink of chaos has resonated with audiences and critics alike. The film's cultural significance cannot be overstated, as it offers a rare glimpse into the complexities of Dhaka's underbelly. As the film industry continues to evolve, The Dark Side of Dhaka stands as a testament to the power of cinema to challenge societal norms and push boundaries. With its thought-provoking themes and unflinching portrayal of life in Dhaka, this film is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
