Bangladeshi filmmaker Adnan Al Rajeev’s acclaimed short film Ali has been officially selected for the 73rd Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF), marking its Australian premiere. This latest recognition comes shortly after the film’s historic journey at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it made headlines as the first Bangladeshi short film to enter the Main Competition section and received a Special Mention award.
The selection at MIFF adds another international milestone for Ali, highlighting the growing presence of Bangladeshi cinema on the global stage. The Melbourne International Film Festival, one of the oldest film festivals in the Southern Hemisphere, will run from August 7 to 23 this year. According to the organisers, Ali will be screened on August 8 at 6:30 pm and again on August 18 at 9:15 pm.
Sharing the news, the film’s Bangladeshi producer Tanvir Hossain said, “Following an unforgettable journey at Cannes, being selected for the Melbourne International Film Festival is a great honour for us. We are grateful for the opportunity to bring this story to a global audience.”
Directed by Adnan Al Rajeev, Ali tells a compelling story that resonated strongly with audiences at Cannes, earning praise for its storytelling and direction. The film’s participation in MIFF reflects the increasing international interest in films from Bangladesh and the growing recognition of its filmmakers in world cinema.
With this selection, Ali continues its successful run in the international festival circuit, carrying forward the pride of Bangladeshi cinema and opening new doors for future projects from the country’s talented filmmakers.
