"we replace it with screenings of movies that are in demand."
Shakib Khan’s much-anticipated film Antaratma, which had been delayed for four years, was pulled from Star Cineplex just one day after its release.
The film, which was quietly added to the Eid movie lineup, raised questions within the industry due to its lack of promotion.
Unlike the other Eid releases, Antaratma did not receive the usual promotional build-up.
Its teaser, song, and trailer were released just hours before its Eid debut.
Even Shakib Khan and the film’s cast remained notably silent on the release.
Although Antaratma managed to secure screenings at 21 theatres, including multiplexes and single-screen cinemas, its audience turnout was disappointing.
The film’s low audience engagement led to Bangladeshi cinema chain Star Cineplex making the rare decision to pull it after just one day.
This marked a stark contrast to the other Eid releases, which enjoyed much larger fanbases and better box office performances.
Among those films was Borbaad, another Shakib Khan project that has been well-received by his supporters.
Directed by Wajed Ali Sumon, Antaratma was initially scheduled to run in two Star Cineplex branches, with two daily screenings.
These were the ones located in Bashundhara City and Sony Square.
Despite this, the film’s underwhelming performance on its opening day prompted the theatre to pull it a day earlier than planned.
Star Cineplex’s senior marketing official, Mesbah Ahmed, explained the decision:
“If a film doesn’t attract audiences, we replace it with screenings of movies that are in demand.”
With Antaratma being removed from the schedule, other films, including Borbaad, saw an increase in showings.
The competition this Eid was fierce, with six films vying for attention.
These included Daagi, Jongli, Jinn-3, and Chokkor 302.
As a result, with Antaratma out of the race, the remaining films gained more space in the multiplexes.
Both Borbaad and Daagi had equal screen time at Star Cineplex, which suggests a promising fight for the top spot in the box office.
Mesbah Uddin Ahmed, the Senior Manager of Media and Marketing at Star Cineplex, commented on the competition, stating:
“It’s too early to determine a clear winner as audiences are still on vacation. However, both films have received positive responses.
“Once the holidays end, we can be sure about it. Also, the word of mouth will significantly impact their success, much like Toofan and Priyotoma.
“We’re already seeing a buzz around Borbaad. The songs and dialogues play a great role as well.”
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