Samsul Islam Shopon's documentary "Latika" continues to break boundaries, representing Bangladesh on the global stage. Following successful screenings at prestigious festivals such as Switzerland's Visions du Réel, the WOW-Wales One World Film Festival, the Moscow International Documentary Film Festival, and the Chittagong International Documentary Film Festival, "Latika" is set to compete in two more major international festivals this fall. The film, which explores the life of a struggling family from Bangladesh's Malo community, has captivated audiences with its intimate portrayal of survival, tradition, and resilience.
Next, "Latika" will compete in the main competition at the Animal Nature Future Film Festival in London on September 27. Shortly after, it will travel to Baku, Azerbaijan, to participate in the non-main competition section of the DokuBaku International Documentary Film Festival, starting October 1. At the heart of "Latika" is the story of a woman from the Malo community who, along with her husband Shyam Biswas, confronts the harsh realities of life on the banks of the Chitra River in Narail, Bangladesh.
Shyam fishes using a unique yet traditional method—trained otters assist in catching fish. The couple's daily struggles, raising two children and managing three pairs of otters, are brought to life with raw honesty in this poignant documentary. Shopon, the filmmaker, is thrilled that "Latika" has received international recognition.
Speaking about the fest.
