Film Archive Future: Advisor Stresses Digitization and Documentation
Information and Broadcasting Affairs Advisor Md. Mahfuz Alam has directed the Bangladesh Film Archive to take initiatives for digitally preserving films and related materials, emphasizing the need to enhance the institution’s overall capacity.
He issued the directive during a discussion session following his visit to the Bangladesh Film Archive in Agargaon on Tuesday afternoon, June 24.
Highlighting the archive’s potential, the advisor remarked, “The Film Archive plays a vital role in preserving documents related to history and heritage, as well as domestic and international films.” Stressing the importance of safeguarding documentaries, he added, “The archive must take proactive steps to collect and preserve documentaries focused on Bangladesh’s history and culture.” He also urged the collection and preservation of interviews and documentaries featuring freedom fighters and the nation’s highest military honorees, the Bir Sreshtha.
Mahfuz Alam underscored the importance of acquiring past film magazines, stating, “Initiatives must be taken to collect over 50 years of film magazines from institutions such as Bangla Academy, Shilpakala Academy, Dhaka University, and various libraries.” Additionally, he recommended sourcing relevant archival material from Bangladesh Television, the Department of Films and Publications, and the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation.
The advisor stressed the necessity of preserving written works and interviews of senior and renowned filmmakers. “A comprehensive digital catalog of all archived films must be prepared,” he said, noting that such an initiative would benefit researchers and students of film. He assured the Film Archive of the government's full cooperation to strengthen its capabilities.
The welcome address at the meeting was delivered by Director General of the Bangladesh Film Archive Md. Abdul Jalil, who outlined the archive’s ongoing activities, limitations, and future plans. Director Farhana Rahman and other staff members of the archive were also present.
Before the meeting, the advisor toured the archive’s projection hall, film museum, film restoration lab, film vault, and library.
