Zero Degree won over unrest: Mahfuz

Zero Degree, one of the most talked about movies of this year, was released on 6 February amidst the ongoing political unrest. Did it manage to live up to the expectations? The producer and lead actor of the movie Mahfuz Ahmed has the answers.

Last week we published a photo of a deserted cinema hall during screening. Many viewers are not being able to go to the theatres. What are your thoughts regarding this situation?

We were very concerned before the movie was released, but we got a very positive response from the audience. Just goes to show that good movies can always draw crowd. Even in the times of war, flower still blooms, bird still sings.

How affected was Zero Degree by the political unrest?

Of course it was affected, but that does not bother us. It did better than what we expected, considering how bad the political situation has been lately. Many people watched it in the halls; some are giving constructive criticism on the social networks. We are very happy about that.

So, who won? Unrest or Zero Degree?

Zero Degree won hands down. That been said, this unrest will always remain as a big regret. People could've experienced a great change in Bangladeshi cinema if this unrest was not here. But the funny thing is, the movie is gaining traction. More people are coming to watch this movie now.

How many halls are releasing Zero Degree on its second week?

 Zero Degree will be screened for the first time in 18 halls in and out of Dhaka. Various halls in Dhaka were screening it from its first week.

Are you planning to produce more movies?

 Zero Degree has given me courage. I realized our viewers are ready, its good movies that we lack. If we can give them good movies, they will throng the halls.