"When you speak the truth, people feel it."
Bangladeshi short film Ali, directed by Adnan Al Rajeev, is competing at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
This is the first time in the country’s cinematic history that a Bangladeshi short film is being premiered at the festival.
The film explores a heartfelt narrative rooted in Bangladeshi culture.
It is set to be screened twice, in line with the festival’s tradition for short films.
Director Adnan Al Rajeev, speaking from Cannes, shared his excitement and nerves ahead of the official screening.
On May 22, 2025, he attended the technical screening of Ali.
This is a standard process to ensure each film’s sound, colour grading, and projection meet festival standards.
Rajeev acknowledged the tough competition, saying: “The nominated short films here are exceptional in their storytelling and execution.”
Despite the international pressure, Rajeev is entering the screenings with confidence.
When asked if he was excited, the director said: “I’ve got goosebumps.”
He emphasised his commitment to authenticity, stating: “When you speak the truth, people feel it. I’ll face them with my story, in my own language. This is my truth.”
The buzz around Ali has been steadily building, especially after the release of its teaser on May 15, 2025.
The brief preview sparked conversations among viewers, particularly around the central relationship between the film’s protagonist and his mother.
Rajeev said: “People are curious, there’s a sense of mystery. I love seeing their reactions.”
This historic moment is a milestone for Bangladesh’s film industry.
While Bangladeshi films have been featured at international festivals in the past, Ali is the first to enter Cannes’ short film competition category.
This accomplishment reflects a growing global interest in South Asian stories told with nuance and emotional depth.
Adnan Al Rajeev, already known for his storytelling in television and advertising, sees this opportunity as more than personal success.
He hopes the experience will elevate not just his career, but also shine a spotlight on Bangladesh’s rich but often underrepresented cinema.
As the screening approaches, there is growing pride among film enthusiasts back home.
Social media has lit up with messages of support and excitement, as audiences in Bangladesh eagerly wait to see how Ali is received by international critics and filmmakers.
With its emotional weight and artistic vision, Ali is poised to make a lasting impression and open new doors for Bangladeshi cinema on the global stage.
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