On Sunday, 11 January, the Australian suburb of Minto was momentarily transformed into a vibrant enclave of Bengali heritage. The occasion was the exclusive premiere of ‘Magic Word’, a new drama directed by the distinguished actor and filmmaker Majnun Mizan. Amidst the demanding pace of life in Sydney, the local Bangladeshi community gathered in significant numbers to celebrate a production that seeks to bridge the emotional distance between their adopted home and their cultural roots.
Exploring the Human Condition
The screenplay, penned by Rahasya Raihan, masterfully navigates the “mechanical” nature of modern existence, contrasting it with the raw, humanitarian emotions that define our relationships. As the narrative unfolded on screen, the audience remained captivated; the hall was filled with an evocative silence, occasionally punctuated by shared laughter or quiet tears as the scenes resonated with the personal journeys of the expatriates present.
The film features a sophisticated blend of technical expertise and a cross-continental cast, merging the best of Dhaka’s entertainment industry with local Australian talent.
| Role | Name | Background/Contribution |
| Director | Majnun Mizan | Visionary behind the project |
| Lead Cast | Dipa Khandakar | Leading lady of Bangladesh TV |
| Supporting Cast | Masum Basar & Shilpi Apu | Veteran screen icons |
| Local Talent | Rupanti Akid & Nicolette | Australian-based performers |
| Cinematography | Shimul Shikdar | Visual storytelling and lighting |
| Sponsor | Oz Dream Built | Premier Sydney Real Estate firm |
A Triumph Over Logistical Hurdles
Reflecting on the production after the screening, Majnun Mizan became visibly moved while describing the challenges of filming abroad. With 95% of the scenes shot on location in Sydney, the director had to balance high aesthetic ambitions with a modest budget.
“While I have spent my life in front of the camera, I now find a profound sense of fulfilment in the director’s chair,” Mizan shared. He noted that the natural beauty and infrastructure of Sydney provide an incredible canvas for filmmakers, suggesting that with further investment, Bangladeshi-themed stories could achieve international cinematic acclaim.
Fostering Cultural Continuity
Talat Mahmud, representing the event’s patron Oz Dream Built, expressed his deep admiration for the project. He emphasised that supporting such creative endeavours is a core mission for his organisation, as these events are essential for keeping the Bengali language and identity alive within the burgeoning diaspora.
For those unable to attend the Sydney premiere, the drama is scheduled for a major television release. ‘Magic Word’ will be broadcast today, Wednesday, 14 January, at 3:00 PM on Channel i. The airing is anticipated to be a major event for viewers in Bangladesh, offering them a glimpse into the creative expressions of their kin living in Australia.