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In a landmark achievement for South Asian and Southeast Asian cinema, Ali, a short film directed by Bangladeshi filmmaker Adnan Al Rajeev, has received a special mention in the Short Film Palme d’Or category at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. This historic recognition marks the first time a Bangladeshi short film has been honored in competition at Cannes, and it was written and produced by a team of talented Filipinos.
The 15-minute Bangladeshi-Philippine co-production tells the poignant story of a teenage boy in a conservative coastal town where women are forbidden to sing. Defying this oppressive norm, the boy joins a singing competition, concealing a personal secret that challenges the town's rigid social structure.
The emotional depth and narrative strength of Ali are rooted in its screenplay, co-written by Filipinos Arvin Belarmino and Kyla Danelle Romero. Adding to the creative force behind the project, Filipina producer Kristine De Leon played a vital role in bringing the film to life alongside Bangladeshi producer Tanveer Hossain.
Director Adnan Al Rajeev, in an emotional statement shared on social media, described the award as a "dream come true." He added, "My name will be there, our name will be there, my country’s name will be there. Just thinking about it gives me goosebumps."
Out of nearly 4,800 submissions, Ali was one of only 11 short films selected for the prestigious Short Film Competition at Cannes 2025. The official Cannes Film Festival platforms proudly shared news of its inclusion, marking an inspiring moment for the South Asian and Southeast Asian film communities.
In recognition of Ali's success, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Cultural Affairs awarded the team an honorarium and acknowledged the film as a cultural landmark. Cultural advisor Mustafa Sarwar Farooqi noted that this achievement proves Bangladeshi filmmakers, when supported and creatively partnered, can compete at the highest levels internationally.
