It isn't every day that an 85-year-old grandmother arrives at the cinema flanked by three generations of her family. But that's exactly what happened with "Jongli," the Eid release that is quietly becoming one of the most emotionally resonant local films of the season.

As of today, the number of screenings at Star Cineplex has jumped to 14 per day—an unusual development for a Bangladeshi film post-Eid. The reason is not flashy promotions or star power, but the deeply personal way audiences have embraced it, said Siam Ahmed, 'Jongli's lead star in an exclusive interview with The Daily Star.

"All thanks to the Almighty; finally, the number of 'Jongli' screenings has increased. Starting today, we've added more shows. The entire team and I are overjoyed," said Siam.

"It has struck a chord where few films dare to aim, the complicated emotional terrain of fathers, sons, and the quiet grief that often goes unnamed in Bangladeshi households," Siam shared. "The stories of middle-aged men—fathers who typically conceal their emotions—leaving the theatre in tears. This is our true reward," he said.

But the film's reach isn't limited to men. Women 'akin to mothers' have reportedly walked up to Siam post-screening to touch his head and offer blessings. "Their love and support have deeply moved me," he said. It's a reaction that suggests "Jongli" is being read as something more than a film—it's an emotional experience, a shared reckoning, and, for many, a family ritual.

The increase in showtimes, Siam insists, wasn't industry maneuvering. "The credit for the added screenings goes entirely to our viewers. We didn't exert any extra influence; it's all due to the audience's enthusiasm and their advocacy for 'Jongli' as a powerful family film."

Even with the added screenings, demand remains high. Siam recalled how painful it was to see elderly women from Old Dhaka—"the age of my mother or grandmother"—arrive at cinemas only to find the shows sold out. "It was disheartening… I kept thinking: will they not get to see 'Jongli'? But now they can."

The film's core message, Siam says, is simple and inclusive: "From the start I've said this film is for anyone who has children, and almost everyone is someone's child." In other words, it's for everyone.

In one particularly touching moment, Siam recounted hearing that entire families—up to fifteen members at once—have come to see the film together. "That's incredible. It feels like fate is on 'Jongli's' side. My love and gratitude go out to the audience."

What started as a modest Eid release has now become a testament to word-of-mouth power and the emotional resonance of storytelling that puts family at its centre. "Jongli" didn't just find an audience—it built one, Siam concluded.

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