A view of Dhaka from high above the city streets, a bowl of spiced Kachchi, music, fresh air, and walking in a park; such little things bring so much happiness and pleasure. Saba provides them to her paraplegic mother, Shirin, as often as possible, but it is frustrating to not have much of a life of her own. When Shirin's health deteriorates, Saba is forced to find a job and beg a relative for money and favors. She has some success in this, and yet can't seem to keep up with Shirin's worsening condition. Saba faces a choice, follow the money or her heart.
"What do you wish for most in life?!"
This gripping character study provides a fascinating glimpse of the struggle to live with dignity in a faraway, bewildering city, yet a situation that is familiar to everyone. "If you want to send a message," said director Maksud Hossain "go to Western Union." He provides beguiling characters instead. Hossain was talkative at this world premiere screening at the Toronto International Film Festival even though he had to deal with a loud and unruly member of the audience. The man claimed to be Hossain's "biggest fan," but in reality, he certainly wasn't.
Actor Mehazabien Chowdhury (Saba) was sitting right next to me in the front row throughout the screening and I didn't even notice until she jumped up to appear with Hossain for the question-and-answer session at the end. In my defense, she sat down in the darkness and after the film began. Mehazabien is a star of TV dramas, took on an uncharacteristic role in this film, and appreciated the chance to be someone more authentic and real.
The film has pleasing depth; television sets in the background speak of the first metro trains coming to Dhaka after the project was started 17 years ago, bullying and corrupt police officers provide a snapshot of living in Bangladesh (no consuming alcohol or kissing in public, yikes!), and more. Saba is a compelling film about letting go and living with grace and an open heart. How I love to travel to a distant corner of the world through such stories and art.
