entertainment
Int’l Women’s Day: Monumental success of Coke Studio Bangla’s local gems
Coke Studio Bangla, which has become one of the leading music platforms in the country since its inception, has brought out many popular songs in its two seasons while putting the spotlight on women singers from remote areas who have now become national stars through their own merits.
Marking the occasion of this year’s International Women's Day, the platform highlights the stories of its three most popular women artists with utmost priority, who became fan favourites after its acclaimed season two.
For decades, the music of Bangladesh has been enriched by the melodies of countless talented singers, many of whom remain unknown to mainstream media and audiences, but celebrated in their local communities.
Radwan Mujib joins youths at Joy Bangla Concert in Chattogram
Aleya Begum, a folk singer popularly known as “Baul Mata” with a five-decades-long career, has been primarily recognized for singing songs of different genres including ‘Bichhed,’ ‘Palagan,’ ‘Zarigan,’ and spiritual, while writing over 1000 songs and was featured in famous movies such as ‘Gunin’. Despite her vast experience with music, she was mostly popular among her inner circle and a big name in her region.
Her soul-touching performance in Coke Studio Bangla season two's smashing hit track "Kotha Koiyo Na'' propelled her to the mainstream media and made her one of the most talked about folk singers among music lovers. Overnight, she went on to become a national sensation through the song which not only introduced Aleya to the new generation but also highlighted the rich heritage of Bangladeshi folk music.
Similarly, Hamida Banu, a folk artist from Sylhet, did not have any prior experience of performing music professionally. She has been known by the legendary folk icon Hason Raja's family for a long time and has a deep connection with the heritage of Hason Raja. Making her debut with the song "Dilaram" in Coke Studio Bangla season 2, she captivated everyone with her beautiful and soothing voice, where her soulful rendition breathed new life into the song.
A united chorus of ‘Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu’ after March 7 speech airs at Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium
Much like Aleya, Hamida Banu shot to fame among the newer generation, leading them to discover and realize the marvel at the depth of the talent scattered in the many corners of Bangladesh.
Similarly, another rural talent Jahura Baul left her mark on audiences’ hearts with her powerful and enticing voice in season two’s another popular song “BonoBibi”. A respected member of her community and an idol for women artists, her influence over other rural women artists was reflected in the song’s presentation, in which the baul group of women whom she conducted, flourished and captivated audiences.
Even though Aleya Begum was accompanied by actor-singer Arfan Mredha Shiblu and popular musician-music director Emon Chowdhury, Hamida Banu was complemented by popular singer and CSB producer Shayan Chowdhury Arnob and Johura Baul and her team shared the stage with the magnificent Meghdol, they created their own spaces inside the mind of the audiences.
12 people honoured with Dhaka Cultural Organization’s 'Success Award-2024'
These stories align deeply with the theme of this year's Women's Day, "Inspiring Inclusion," according to Coke Studio Bangla. This inclusivity not only empowers these women but also inspires others, demonstrating that talent and passion can shine brightly regardless of background or previous recognition, the platform states while emphasising that their stories serve as a powerful reminder that inclusion and empowerment can unlock a multitude of voices, enriching not only the music industry but also the cultural diversity of Bangladesh.
Radwan Mujib joins youths at Joy Bangla Concert in Chattogram
The port city of Chattogram is currently buzzing with the spirit of youth as it hosts the Joy Bangla Concert, organized to commemorate the historic speech delivered by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 7, 1971. Adding to the fervor, Bangabandhu's grandson and Trustee of the Center for Research and Information (CRI), Radwan Mujib Siddiq, has joined the vibrant crowd at the MA Aziz Stadium to enjoy the concert alongside the nation's youth.
The event, which started at 3 pm on Thursday at the MA Aziz Stadium, features performances from a total of nine bands, including Artcell, Cryptic Fate, Nemesis, Chirkutt, Meghdol, Lalon, Avoid Rafa, Chattogram's own Tirondaz and Carnival. This marks the first time the Joy Bangla Concert has been held outside of its traditional venue at Dhaka's Army Stadium, aiming to connect the current generation with the historic day that resonates deeply with Bangladesh's fight for independence.
A united chorus of ‘Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu’ after March 7 speech airs at Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium
Radwan Mujib Siddiq's initiatives, such as the graphic novel "Mujib," have played a significant role in introducing the life and legacy of Bangabandhu to children and youths. This innovative approach to storytelling has brought Bangabandhu's unfinished autobiography and the tumultuous events of his life to a new audience in a format that is a first of its kind in Bangladesh.
Radwan is also behind popular initiatives such as the "Joy Bangla Youth Award," which acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of young individuals towards nation-building. Moreover, his involvement in the production of the docudrama "Hasina: A Daughter's Tale" sheds light on the struggles faced by Bangabandhu's daughters following his assassination, further enriching the political narrative of Bangladesh's history.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium transforms into a sea of youths
A graduate in Government and History from the London School of Economics and Political Science, where he also completed his postgraduate studies in Comparative Politics, Radwan Mujib is deeply involved in empowering and inspiring the youth through various CRI initiatives, including Joy Bangla Concert, Policy Café, and Let's Talk.
As the chief editor of the policy-making magazine WhiteBoard published by CRI, Radwan continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policy discussions and engaging the youth in the development discourse of Bangladesh. His presence at the Joy Bangla Concert underscores the event's significance in fostering a sense of unity and pride among the country's youth, echoing the historic "Joy Bangla" slogan that united a nation in its fight for freedom.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 kickstarts in Chattogram with Tirondaz taking the stage
A united chorus of ‘Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu’ after March 7 speech airs at Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium
For the first time outside Dhaka, the Joy Bangla Concert is being held in the port city of Chattogram at the MA Aziz Stadium, echoing the spirits of unity and remembrance. The evening showcased a colorful video of the historic March 7, 1971, speech by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, captivating the young generation once more with his powerful words.
As Bangabandhu's speech concluded, the sky above was lit with an array of fireworks. Following this vibrant display, all attendees, in unison with the concert's host, proclaimed, "Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu," filling the air with a sense of patriotism and pride.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium transforms into a sea of youths
The concert commenced at 3 pm on Thursday, featuring a lineup of nine local bands: Artcell, Cryptic Fate, Nemesis, Chirkutt, Meghdol, Lalon, Avoid Rafa, Chattogram's own Tirondaz, and Carnival. This marked a significant shift from the concert's traditional venue, aiming to connect the current generation with the historic significance of this day.
Avoid Rafa took the stage at around 5:20 pm, thrilling the audience with their rendition of the national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam's song "Mora Jhonjhar Moto Uddam," a rallying cry broadcasted during the Liberation War from the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra. Following their opening number, the band continued to energize the crowd with a series of their most popular songs.
This year's Joy Bangla Concert not only celebrated the enduring legacy of Bangabandhu's March 7 speech, recognized as one of the greatest speeches globally, but also reinforced the "Joy Bangla" slogan that unified the people in their struggle for independence in 1971.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 kickstarts in Chattogram with Tirondaz taking the stage
Adding to the fervor, Bangabandhu's grandson and Trustee of the Center for Research and Information (CRI), Radwan Mujib Siddiq, joined the vibrant crowd at the MA Aziz Stadium to enjoy the concert alongside the nation's youth.
Radwan Mujib Siddiq's initiatives, such as the graphic novel "Mujib," have played a significant role in introducing the life and legacy of Bangabandhu to children and youths. He is also behind popular initiatives such as the "Joy Bangla Youth Award," which acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of young individuals towards nation-building. Moreover, his involvement in the production of the docudrama "Hasina: A Daughter's Tale" sheds light on the struggles faced by Bangabandhu's daughters following his assassination, further enriching the political narrative of Bangladesh's history.
Ctg set for a historic March 7 celebration as gates open to Joy Bangla Concert 2024
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Ctg’s MA Aziz Stadium transforms into a sea of youths
Chattogram's MA Aziz Stadium has become a vibrant sea of youths as the Joy Bangla Concert 2024 took the city by storm. This monumental event, initiated to honor the historic March 7 speech by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, began at 3 pm on Thursday, attracting a massive crowd eager to partake in the festivities.
The concert lineup boasts nine acclaimed local bands, including Artcell, Cryptic Fate, Avoid Rafa, Nemesis, Chirkutt, Meghdol, Lalon, and the city's own Tirondaz, along with Carnival. The day's performances kicked off with Tirondaz, who set the stage alight with their rendition of songs, including a poignant piece from the Liberation War-time Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 kickstarts in Chattogram with Tirondaz taking the stage
Following Tirondaz was Carnival. The stage is seeing a succession of bands, each bringing their unique energy and music to the fore. Meghdol, Avoid Rafa, Lalon, Cryptic Fate, Nemesis, Chirkutt, and finally, Artcell, are all slated to perform, with each band entertaining the audience for approximately 45 minutes.
This year's Joy Bangla Concert marks a significant departure from its traditional venue, moving from Dhaka's Army Stadium to the coastal city of Chattogram for the first time. Organized by the Center for Research and Information (CRI) through its youth platform Young Bangla, the event aims to bridge generations, connecting contemporary youths with a crucial moment in their nation's history.
Ctg set for a historic March 7 celebration as gates open to Joy Bangla Concert 2024
The fervor for the concert was palpable long before the gates opened, with registration slots filling up within just half an hour, demonstrating the immense enthusiasm of the young generation for this cultural celebration. Promotional campaigns by Young Bangla and CRI, featuring band statements, promotional videos, and posters, have further amplified the excitement, drawing widespread attention and anticipation on social media.
Special considerations have been made to ensure inclusivity and safety, with specific entry provisions for women and comprehensive preparations to guarantee a secure and enjoyable concert experience for all attendees. The meticulous stage setup, combined with rehearsals and the stunning visual and audio presentations, promise an evening that will live long in the memories of those present.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 ignites social media buzz with last night's jam sessions
The Joy Bangla Concert 2024, with its homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's inspiring "Joy Bangla" slogan and speech, stands as a testament to the power of music to unite and galvanize a nation. As MA Aziz Stadium turns into a sea of vibrant youths, it becomes clear that the legacy of Bangabandhu and the spirit of 1971 remain as relevant and stirring as ever.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 kickstarts in Chattogram with Tirondaz taking the stage
In commemoration of the historic March 7 speech by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the port city of Chattogram is currently hosting the Joy Bangla Concert.
The concert began at 3 pm on Thursday at Chattogram's MA Aziz Stadium, showcasing a total of 9 bands. These include Artcell, Cryptic Fate, Avoid Rafa, Nemesis, Chirkutt, Meghdol, Lalon, Chattogram's own Tirondaz, Carnival.
Ctg set for a historic March 7 celebration as gates open to Joy Bangla Concert 2024
Kicking off the event, local band Tirondaz took to the stage around 3 pm, delivering a series of popular songs over the span of approximately 25 minutes, including a song from Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra.
Following their performance, the band Carnival is set to perform at 3:40 pm, with a 30-minute set before making way for the next act. Meghdol and Avoid Rafa are scheduled to grace the stage at around 4:30 pm and 5:20 pm, respectively, each offering 30 minutes of performance.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 ignites social media buzz with last night's jam sessions
Later in the evening, at around 6:15 pm, Lalon will perform, followed by Cryptic Fate at 7:40 pm, Nemesis at 8:35 pm, Chirkutt at 9:35 pm, and finally, Artcell at 10:35 pm. Each band is slated to entertain the crowd for about 45 minutes.
Previously held at Dhaka's Army Stadium, this year marks the first instance of the Joy Bangla Concert being organized outside Dhaka, in Chattogram. The concert, orchestrated by the Center for Research and Information (CRI) through its youth platform Young Bangla, aims to connect the current generation with the historic significance of this day.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Final preparations underway for music fest in Port City
Anticipation had been building even before the registration opened, with slots filling up within half an hour, showcasing the young generation's enthusiasm for the concert. Fans expressed their eagerness to attend by sharing various promotional materials, band statements, and posters from Young Bangla and CRI's pages.
Organizers have ensured special entry arrangements for women to make the concert a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Complete preparations have been made for the audience to enjoy the concert securely and comfortably, including the setup of the stage the day before the concert. Artists rehearsed with their songs, complemented by dazzling light shows and the resonant sounds of guitars and drums, promising an unforgettable experience.
The Joy Bangla Concert celebrates Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's speech, recognized as one of the greatest speeches globally, and the unifying slogan "Joy Bangla" that galvanized the nation in 1971.
Ctg set for a historic March 7 celebration as gates open to Joy Bangla Concert 2024
The gates have swung open for the Joy Bangla Concert 2024, now unfolding at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chattogram, marking a historic shift from its traditional Dhaka venue.
This annual musical homage celebrates Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's iconic March 7, 1971 speech, linking the spirit of the past with the vibrancy of the present and energizing the youth with the legacy of Bangladesh's quest for independence.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 ignites social media buzz with last night's jam sessions
Last night, Chattogram buzzed with excitement as headliners' jam sessions for the Joy Bangla Concert electrified social media, offering a sneak peek into the high-octane performances expected at today's event.
Tonmoy Ahmed, a BUET alumnus and Coordinator of the Awami League Web Team, encapsulated the anticipation, "The biggest concert for youths is going to take place in Chattogram for the first time. Youths will cherish this experience for a lifetime."
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Final preparations underway for music fest in Port City
The eagerness of the youth was unmistakable as registrations for the concert filled up in record time, underscoring their zeal to be part of this cultural festivity that resonates deeply with the nation's heritage.
The promotional campaign by Young Bangla and CRI has significantly heightened the excitement, with an array of promotional content, including band statements, videos, and posters, quickly spreading across social media and igniting conversations about the concert.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 promises special arrangement for women
Inclusivity and safety are at the forefront of this year's event, with special entry provisions for women at the MA Aziz Stadium to ensure a welcoming and secure environment for every attendee. The organizers promise an unforgettable evening brimming with musical excellence, captivating lights, and boundless energy.
Featuring a stellar lineup of some of Bangladesh's most beloved bands, including Artcell, Cryptic Fate, Avoid Rafa, Nemesis, Chirkutt, Meghdol, Lalon, and Chattogram's very own Tirondaz and Carnival, the concert is set to deliver a spellbinding experience to its audience.
Since its launch in 2015 by the Center for Research and Information's (CRI) Young Bangla platform, the Joy Bangla Concert has become a cornerstone event for the youth, celebrating the powerful message of Bangabandhu's March 7 speech, recognized globally by UNESCO, and the unifying "Joy Bangla" slogan that echoed through the 1971 Liberation War. Following a hiatus induced by the pandemic, the concert made a triumphant return, weaving the past's valor with today's aspirations.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 ignites social media buzz with last night's jam sessions
Last night's jam sessions featuring headlining acts for today's Joy Bangla Concert have taken social media by storm, with posts and videos showcasing electrifying performances ahead of the much-anticipated event in Chattogram.
Tonmoy Ahmed, BUET alumni and Coordinator of the Awami League Web Team, captured the excitement, sharing glimpses of the rehearsals and stating, "The biggest concert for youths is going to take place in Chattogram for the first time. Youths will cherish this experience for a lifetime."
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Final preparations underway for music fest in Port City
The Joy Bangla Concert, held annually to honor the historic March 7, 1971, speech by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, seeks to bridge the past with the present, connecting the current generation to a pivotal moment in the nation's history. This year's edition marks a significant milestone as it relocates from its traditional venue at Dhaka's Army Stadium to the port city of Chattogram.
The anticipation among the youth has been palpable, with concert registrations closing just half an hour after opening, demonstrating the profound connection and eagerness of the younger generation to be part of this cultural celebration.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024 promises special arrangement for women
Promotional efforts by Young Bangla and CRI have amped up the excitement, with a deluge of promotional materials, including band statements, videos, and posters, spreading like wildfire across social media platforms.
With a keen focus on inclusivity and safety, special entry arrangements for women have been implemented at the MA Aziz Stadium, ensuring a secure and enjoyable atmosphere for all concertgoers. The meticulous preparations promise musical brilliance, immersive lights, and high energy, setting the stage for an evening to remember.
PM receives Joy Bangla Concert banner and poster
12 people honoured with Dhaka Cultural Organization’s 'Success Award-2024'
The Dhaka Cultural Organization hosted the 'Success Award-2024' ceremony to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of individuals across various sectors, including film, music, journalism, and business.
Former Army Chief Lieutenant General (Retd) Mohammed Harun-Ar-Rashid inaugurated the programme on Tuesday night (March 5) by presenting the lifetime achievement award to noted film actress Anjana Sultana, recognising her contribution to the Bangladesh film industry.
UNB's Special Correspondent Muhammed Abdur Rahman Jahangir was honoured as one of the recipients of the 'Success Award-2024' for his significant contributions to journalism in Bangladesh spanning nearly two decades. He was presented the award by actress Anjana Sultana and popular film actor Joy Chowdhury.
Joy Bangla Concert 2024: Final preparations underway for music fest in Port City
In celebration of Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s
historic March 7 speech, Chattogram is set to host Joy Bangla Concert 2024 tomorrow. This event, eagerly anticipated by organisers and music lovers alike, marks a first for the port city, transitioning from its traditional venue in Dhaka's Army Stadium.
Under the supervision of the Chattogram district administration and the Metropolitan Police (CMP), the MA Aziz Stadium is being prepared to welcome the crowds and artists for this grand musical event. The preparations are in their final stages, ensuring a seamless experience for the attendees.
This year's concert lineup includes renowned bands such as Artcell, Nemesis, Chirkutt, among others, promising a memorable experience for music enthusiasts.
For the first time in its history, the Joy Bangla Concert will take place outside Dhaka, in response to the long-standing requests from the youth for a concert in their region. This move to Chattogram’s MA Aziz Stadium has been warmly received, with local youths expressing their anticipation and excitement for the event.
Young Bangla has made a unique call for registrations in the local Chatgaiyya dialect, inviting attendees to sign up for free through their official Facebook page or website: https://ticket.youngbangla.org/
Registration requires national identification, passport or birth certificate details, along with contact information.
Tonmoy Ahmed, coordinator of Awami League's web team, highlighted the significance of the concert being held in Chattogram on March 7, 2024, fulfilling the youth's desire for an event in their city. Young Bangla's promotional activities and official announcements have successfully drummed up enthusiasm among the youth, promising an event filled with passion and national pride.
Since its inception in 2015, the Joy Bangla Concert has been a pivotal platform for youth engagement and celebration of Bangladesh's rich cultural heritage, organised by the Center for Research and Information (CRI).
Despite a hiatus during the 2021-2022 pandemic, the concert's return symbolised a resurgence of national spirit and unity under the "Joy Bangla" slogan, echoing the call for unity from the Liberation War era.
How and where to watch Oscar-nominated films online
The winner in the Oscar race this year is “Oppenheimer” with 13 nominations, followed by the otherworldly “Poor Things” with 11 and the period epic “Killers of the Flower Moon” with 10.
This year’s Oscars race come after a bruising 2023 that was marred by strikes and work stoppages for the cinema world, throwing production and release schedules into chaos.
Bangladeshi-American chef shortlisted for the ‘Oscars of food’
Looking to catch up ahead of the March 10 Academy Awards on ABC? Here’s how to watch:
“OPPENHEIMER”
13 nominations. Streams on Peacock.
Christopher Nolan’s atomic opus “Oppenheimer” received widespread critical acclaim and broke box office records. It’s half the Barbenheimer phenom with “Barbie” from last July. The three-hour film, which is semi-trippy and flashback heavy, chronicles the trials and tribulations of the secret Manhattan Project’s J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy). Available for pay at YouTube, Apple TV, Prime Video, Vudu, iTunes, Google Play and elsewhere.
Partial list of nominees for the 2024 Oscars
“POOR THINGS”11 nominations. In theaters. Streams on Hulu starting March 7.
Think Frankenstein story, and his bride. Director Yorgos Lanthimos owes a debt to Emma Stone, his childlike and highly randy Bella, in “Poor Things.” The comedy is dark and the vibe Victorian fantasy. And did we mention the sex? How Bella handles that activity has been the talk of film circles. No spoilers here but rest assured her consciousness is raised. Also stars Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo.
“KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON”10 nominations. Digital purchase. Streams on Apple TV+.
Martin Scorsese delves into the systematic killing of Osage Nation members for their oil-rich land in the 1920s in his drama “Killers of the Flower Moon.” With a star-bright cast, including Lily Gladstone, Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. Warning: Its running time is 3 hours and 26 minutes. There’s craft in every shot. Available for pay at iTunes, Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“BARBIE”8 nominations. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Max.
Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” in the billion-dollar club at the box office, is a live-action musical comedy focused on the 64-year-old plastic doll in a range of iterations. It also took the globe by storm, culturally speaking. The film stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling (as Just Ken). Robbie plays Stereotypical Barbie, who experiences an existential crisis but lands on the road to self-discovery. Available for pay at iTunes, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
Oscars called out for casting non-South Asian dancers in ‘Naatu Naatu’ live performance
“MAESTRO”7 nominations. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Netflix.
With the help of a prosthetic nose, Bradley Cooper brings Leonard Bernstein alive in “Maestro,” which he also directed. The famed conductor’s personal life and persona on stage benefit from Cooper’s energy, and chain smoking. Cooper got an assist from Carey Mulligan, who plays the actor Felicia Montealegre, Bernstein’s stylish wife. Available for pay at Prime Video, Google Play, Vudu, YouTube and elsewhere.
“AMERICAN FICTION”
5 nominations. In theaters. Digital purchase.
Cord Jefferson’s directorial debut “American Fiction” is what satire should be: funny while succinctly pointing at truths. Jeffrey Wright plays a frustrated academic up against the wall of what Black books must be to sell. He takes action. The film is also about families and the weight of their struggles. Wright is joined by a great supporting cast in Leslie Uggams, Erika Alexander, Issa Rae, Sterling K. Brown and Tracee Ellis Ross. Available for pay at Prime Video, Apple TV+, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“ANATOMY OF A FALL”
5 nominations. In theaters. Digital purchase or rental.
Justine Triet’s “Anatomy of a Fall” took the Palme d’Or at the 76th Cannes Film Festival. It stars Sandra Hüller as a writer, Sandra, trying to prove her innocence in court in her husband’s death at their chalet in the French Alps. The verdict? We won’t tell. Did she or didn’t she? Triet wrote the film with her husband, Arthur Harari. “It’s OK, he’s alive,” she told The Associated Press’ Jake Coyle. Available for pay at iTunes, Prime Video, Google Play, Vudu, YouTube and elsewhere.
“THE HOLDOVERS”
5 nominations. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Peacock.
The Alexander Payne offering “The Holdovers” is set at Christmastime, but its themes of loneliness and belonging resonate well beyond the holiday, wrapped in a comedic package. Set in 1970 over the holiday break at a boarding school, there’s plenty of nostalgia in the details. It stars Paul Giamatti in curmudgeonly glory as the teacher stuck minding Angus (Dominic Sessa) and other students with no place to go. Available for pay at iTunes, Prime Video, Google Play, Vudu and elsewhere.
“THE ZONE OF INTEREST”
5 nominations. In theaters. Digital purchase.
There’s another meaty role for Hüller in the Holocaust story “The Zone of Interest,” directed by Jonathan Glazer. She plays Hedwig, the wife of Rudolf Höss (Christian Friedel), the real-life, bloodthirsty commandant of Auschwitz. The action largely has Rudolf and Hedwig living their everyday family lives just a few steps from the ovens and trains that were instruments in the slaughter of millions of Jews. A story worth telling, considering their status as monsters? You decide.
“PAST LIVES”2 nominations. In theaters. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Paramount+.
Celine Song’s feature debut “Past Lives” is a triumph for her as director and writer, and for Greta Lee, one of her stars. Largely autobiographical, it tells the story of childhood companions in Seoul who reunite and rekindle in New York years later, landing in a love triangle. The other thirds of the equation are played by Teo Yoo and John Magaro. It’s understated glory, inducing the best kind of tears: those come by honestly without massive manipulation. Available for pay at iTunes, Google Play, Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“NYAD”
2 nominations. Streams on Netflix.
Annette Bening plays the never-say-die marathon open-water swimmer Diana Nyad and Jodie Foster portrays Nyad’s best friend and trainer, Bonnie Stoll. Enough said. “Nyad” isn’t your average sports biopic. At age 60, Nyad decides to attempt as she did in her youth to swim the shark-infested ocean from Cuba to Miami. Nothing will stop her and lots of things try. A lesson in single-focus excellence.
“SOCIETY OF THE SNOW”
2 nominations. Streams on Netflix.
The story of an amateur Uruguay rugby team’s 1972 plane crash in the Andes as they traveled with relatives and friends to Chile for a match has been told on film many times. There were 45 on board. Sixteen survived after 72 days in the mountains. They faced biting cold, massive snowstorms, avalanches and starvation, the latter motivating them to eat the dead. In “Society of the Snow,” J.A. Bayona wanted to honor the tragedy’s victims and survivors, including him. It’s bleak indeed, with a spirit of love and camaraderie.
“THE COLOR PURPLE”
1 nomination. In theaters. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Max.
It was a book (Alice Walker). It was a dramatic film (Whoopi Goldberg as Celie). It was a Broadway musical (Fantasia Barrino as Celie). This “The Color Purple” has Barrino back. It’s a musical, too, adapted from the stage version, and it’s directed by Blitz Bazawule. He squeezes the strength of Black women out of his harrowing, maximalist film. Colman Domingo is Mister, Halle Bailey is Nettie, with Taraji P. Henson and Danielle Brooks helping the story along amid all the singing and dazzle. Available for pay at iTunes, Prime Video, Apple TV+ and elsewhere.
“SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE”
1 nomination. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Netflix. In theaters.
Welcome to an animated high-octane comic-book sequel that manages to work. In “Spider Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” Miles Morales (voiced by Shameik Moore) is a 15-year-old better able to deal with his crime-fighting powers. Spider-Gwen is voiced by Hailee Steinfeld. By sequel, we mean the first half of the first sequel to “Spider Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” There’s your cliffhanger alert. Available for pay at Apple TV, Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“MAY DECEMBER”
1 nomination. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Netflix.
The breakout star of Todd Haynes’ tense “May December” is Charles Melton of Reggie fame on TV’s “Riverdale.” He’s the May to Julianne Moore’s December, with a whole lot of Natalie Portman thrown in. Inspired by the Mary Kay Letourneau case, Moore plays a ripped-from-the-headlines woman who went to prison over an affair with a seventh-grader she later marries. Portman’s character comes for a visit as she studies how to play Moore in a movie. Things, as they say, fall apart. Although the film’s performances weren’t honored with nominations, the screenplay for “May December” was. Available for pay at Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“RUSTIN”1 nomination. Digital purchase or rental. Streams on Netflix.
Who engineered the 1963 March on Washington? Bayard Rustin, somebody lots of people knew nothing about before Colman Domingo came along in George C. Wolfe’s “Rustin.” With verve, Domingo digs into the experience of a Black gay man in the racist and homophobic 1960s. Cameos abound: Jeffrey Wright, Adrienne Warren, Kevin Mambo, Audra McDonald, Chris Rock, Glynn Turman. Produced by former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground. Obama awarded Rustin a posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom. Available for pay at Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu and elsewhere.
“20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL”
1 nomination. Digital purchase or rental. In North America it’s streamable on the Frontline page at pbs.org, the PBS app and at Frontline on YouTube.
A joint production by The Associated Press and PBS “Frontline,” the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” has been met with critical acclaim and an audience award at the Sundance Film Festival. AP journalist Mstyslav Chernov directed the movie from 30 hours of footage shot in Mariupol in the opening days of the Ukraine war. Chernov and AP colleagues Evgeniy Maloletka, a photographer, and producer Vasilisa Stepanenko were the last international journalists in the city before escaping.
Available for pay at Prime Video, Google Play, Vudu and elsewhere.
“THE BOY AND THE HERON”1 nomination. In theaters.
Dreamy and enthralling, director Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli do it again. Well. The beautifully animated Japanese fantasy “The Boy and the Heron” has young Mahito late in World War II mourning the death of his mother and encountering a talking and ornery gray heron he can’t get rid of. And there’s a very important tower.