Bangladeshi film director, producer, and screenplay writer Mostofa Sarwar Farooki ushered in a new wave in the Bangladeshi drama and film industry in the early 2000s. His vision redefined storytelling, breaking away from traditional screenplays and conventions. His works, from advertisements to feature films, captivated audiences and reshaped industry norms. He also paved the way for Bangladeshi cinema’s emergence on the global stage. Let’s explore the iconic films and dramas that defined Farooki's career in the creative sector.
Top 10 Films & Dramas by Mostofa Sarwar Farooki
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Bachelor | 2004
Written by acclaimed writer Anisul Hoque, this comedy-romantic movie marks Farooki's directorial debut. Through witty humor, the film depicts the lives, loves, and emotions of a group of bachelors, each representing the essence of modern youth.
The cast features celebrated actors like Humayun Faridi, Ferdous Ahmed, Shabnur, and Ahmed Rubel. It also introduced talents like Aupee Karim, Jaya Ahsan, and Marzuk Russell to Bangladeshi cinema. Recognized internationally, ‘Bachelor’ was officially selected at the New Jersey Independent South Asian Cine Fest, Third Eye IFF in Mumbai, and Italy’s Asiatica Filmmedia.
Made in Bangladesh | 2006
Based on the novel ‘Jimmi’ by Anisul Hoque, this political satire captures the frustrations of Bangladesh’s disillusioned youth. Farooki crafts a bold narrative through the character of Khorshed, an unemployed young man played by Zahid Hasan. He confronts the pervasive corruption and social injustice that affect every aspect of life.
Shahiduzzaman Selim, Rosey Siddique, Tariq Anam Khan, Srabosti Dutta Tinni, Tania Ahmed, Jayanto Chattopadhyay, Hasan Masood, Marzuk Russell, and Fazlur Rahman Babu round out the cast.
Praised for its daring commentary, this movie received a Special Mention from the Jury Board at the 2008 Dhaka International Film Festival.
Carrom-1 and 2 | 2006
This two-episode telefilm, co-written by Farooki and Kochi Khondokar, brings humor and heart to the tale of Shafiqul, who has a physical ailment–an issue with his finger. He faces ridicule from neighbors who doubt his ability to win at the carrom game. He accepts the challenge of defeating Tapan, a renowned local player.
‘Carrom’ featured Mosharraf Karim, who charmed audiences with his quirky and heartfelt performance. The cast also includes Nusrat Imrose Tisha, Rifat Chowdhury, Kochi Khondokar, Bappi Ashraf, and Ishtiaq Ahmed Rumel.
420 | 2007-2008
With a compelling portrayal of local politics, this drama series is one of Farooki's most celebrated works on television. The comedy serial centers on two brothers from a rural background who find themselves unintentionally involved in the city’s political scene. As the brothers rise to influence, they quickly discover the murky compromises and ethical challenges.
Starring Mosharraf Karim and Lutfur Rahman George as the central duo, the series boasts actors including Tisha, Sohel Khan, Marzuk Russell, Rifat Chowdhury, Kochi Khondokar, and Siddiqur Rahman. Their performances, combined with Farooki’s insightful writing and direction, made 420 a cultural touchstone for Bangladeshi audiences.
Sixty Nine | 2008-2009
Jointly created by Anisul Hoque and Farooki, this popular family drama series provides an authentic look at a family, where traditional bonds test modern life’s demands. The storyline revolves around a family with six children who live together in a single apartment building, yet they struggle to spare quality time amid their busy lives.
The drama series features an ensemble cast that includes Tisha, Shahiduzzaman Selim, Hasan Masood, Jaya Ahsan, Srabosti Dutta Tinni, Fazlur Rahman Babu, Ahmed Rubel, Marzuk Russell, and Rifat Chowdhury.
Farooki’s direction shines as he balances lighthearted storytelling with insights into family dynamics, creating a series that resonates with audiences of all generations.
