By Anika Chowdhury
Adnan Al Rajeev’s YouTumor (2021) is a humorous foray into the world of YouTube stardom, packed with drama and a healthy dose of reality. The film, released on Chorki, follows the journey of two ambitious friends, Don (Pritom Hasan) and Monty (Ziaul Hoque Polash), as they navigate the ups and downs of becoming internet sensations. It’s a story that explores the glittering allure of online fame and the dark, often unforgiving side of the digital world. YouTumor centres on Don and Monty, two young men, who are determined to make something of themselves through online media.
They’ve seen many Bangladeshis rise to fame and fortune as YouTubers, and they’re convinced that they can do the same. However, their path to success is anything but conventional. What starts as an innocent venture into the world of content creation quickly spirals into a series of unpredictable events, filled with both triumphs and setbacks.
The series does a good job of showcasing the chaotic nature of the internet, where one viral moment can catapult you to fame, but one misstep can also bring you crashing down. As the story unfolds, Don and Monty learn this lesson the hard way. The internet’s potential to uplift and destroy in equal measure is a central theme, and YouTumor doesn’t shy away from showing the consequences of chasing digital fame.
Pritom Hasan and Ziaul Hoque Polash bring their characters to life with a dynamic chemistry that is both engaging and relatable. Don, played by Pritom, is the more grounded of the two, while Monty, played by Ziaul, is a live wire of energy and ambition. Their friendship is the heart of the series, providing both comic relief and emotional depth as they navigate the turbulent waters of internet fame.
The show’s supporting cast also deserves recognition, particularly Shorif Siraj as Jackson Bhai. Jackson Bhai is a character who leaves a lasting impression with his unique blend of wisdom and street smarts. All in all, Shorif Siraj’s performance adds a layer of gravitas to the show – making Jackson Bhai a character viewers would find hard to forget.
Adnan Al Rajeev’s direction shines in YouTumor. The series is visually striking, with scenes that are both creatively framed and beautifully shot – for example, in a dimly lit room where Jackson Bhai delivers a monologue about the ephemeral nature of life and success. Another scene that stands out from the film is when Don and Monty’s content finally goes viral is both a triumph and a turning point in the series. This scene is a rollercoaster of emotions –excitement, disbelief, and the rush of seeing their hard work pay of in real-time. The way this scene is shot and edited deserves praise. The use of real-life YouTubers as guest stars – such as Salman Muqtadir and Rafsan The ChotoBhai – adds an authentic touch to the series, grounding it in the very world it seeks to explore. This clever nod to the internet culture adds an extra layer of enjoyment for viewers familiar with the local YouTube scene.
However, while YouTumor excels in many areas, its narrative could have been stronger. The story’s premise is intriguing, but the execution sometimes falls short. The characters’ motivations, while relatable, don’t always feel fully developed, and some of the challenges they face seem more like plot devices than organic obstacles.
Despite its shortcomings, YouTumor is a commendable e ort from Adnan Al Rajeev. It’s a series that dares to explore new territory in Bangladeshi entertainment, and for that alone, it deserves praise. The chemistry between Don and Monty, combined with the series’ quirky humor and striking visuals, makes it a fun watch.
So, if you’re looking for something light-hearted with a touch of real-world relevance, YouTumor is worth a watch.
