While some (a very few) may find this movie bigoted enough to the Muslim community. They simply do not understand the social demography of 1971. They tend to forget that the Liberation War of Bangladesh was above race or creed. It was all about the independence of a deserving nation. It was fought by Muslims, Hindus, Christian, Buddhists, Natives you name it. Those who wanted the state of Pakistan to prevail merely used religion to seize their advantage. It's a shame that during the war a number of Imam (priest) and Moulanas (religious leaders) used Islam as a platform to commit atrocities which was colorfully depicted in this movie. But it is also a fact that many of them had fought along or collaborated with the freedom fighters which was not depicted. I can see why it is a little confusing for a few people. I am sure bigotry was not Mr. Yousuff's goal to achieve.
As far as the movie is concerned, it has it's faults. Such as the poor quality of CG or whatever they used to create explosions. The few combat scenes were uninspired and amateurish. With a more healthy budget, all of this could've been averted. The authenticity of sets, props, wardrobe and locations were merely satisfactory.
The major aspect mesmerizing the audience is acting. Joya Ahsan as the lead actress touched her full potential as well as the antagonist Mr. Wadud. A.T.M. Shamsuzzaman's dauntless characterization and gem of an acting was quite inspiring. The only disappointing thing was the abrupt ending. Without a concrete epilogue the movie pulled itself a little down of expectation.
Nonetheless, Guerrilla was refreshing, sometimes breathtaking and always moving. My only hope is that this movie will set an example so that the diminishing condition of Bangladeshi cinema could pick up itself from the abyss.
