Integrated Initiatives Promised to Revive Film Industry, Modernize Halls, and Bring Back Audiences
Movie Theaters Won’t Disappear Due to Mobile or Home Theatre: State Minister Directs E-Ticketing in Halls
- Strong emphasis has been placed on introducing modern e-ticketing systems across all cinema halls to ensure transparency
- The Minister discussed modernization funds, quality film production, and collaborative steps during a meeting with the Film Exhibitors Association
State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Chowdhury, MP, has announced that comprehensive and coordinated initiatives will be taken in consultation with stakeholders to develop the country's film industry, modernize cinema halls, and bring audiences back to theaters. He made these remarks on Sunday morning during an exchange meeting with the leaders of the Bangladesh Film Exhibitors Association at the conference room of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The State Minister stated that he does not agree with the notion that movie theaters will become extinct because of mobile phones or home theaters. He explained that experiencing films on a big screen collectively in a theater is entirely different from watching them on a mobile or home screen. Despite various challenges, cinemas and cineplexes operate successfully worldwide; hence, it is necessary to examine why Bangladeshi halls struggle.
Emphasizing the implementation of e-ticketing systems in cinema halls, he noted that necessary instructions have already been given to the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). Modern ticketing will increase government revenue and bring transparency and dynamism to hall operations.
The State Minister added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has provided directives for developing the film industry. The proposal regarding a 1,000 crore Taka allocation to save cinema halls will be examined, and discussions will be held with the Finance Minister and the Bangladesh Bank Governor. Highlighting the need for quality domestic productions alongside regulated film imports, he also announced the launch of a 'Talent Hunt' (Protibarer Sondhane) program via BFDC.
The meeting was attended by Bangladesh Film Exhibitors Association President Aulad Hossain, General Secretary Sharfuddin Ellahi Chowdhury, and executive committee members. They presented various proposals regarding crises, modernization, financing, import-export policies, and audience engagement strategies for local cinemas.
//DBTech/SPP/SME/MIS//
