A Historic First for Bangladeshi Feature Cinema
By MWB Desk
Roid, the latest feature film by filmmaker Mejbaur Rahman Sumon, has been officially selected for the Tiger Competition, the main competition section of the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), where it will have its world premiere in February 2026. The selection marks a significant international milestone for Bangladeshi cinema.
With this selection, Roid becomes the first Bangladeshi feature-length film to be invited to compete in IFFR’s main competition section. The Tiger Competition is widely regarded as one of the most important platforms for contemporary world cinema, showcasing bold, original voices from across the globe. Films selected in this section compete for the festival’s highest honour, the Tiger Award.
Photo Source: Official Poster
IFFR is known for its strong curatorial focus on artistic innovation and emerging cinematic voices. Roid’s inclusion in the Tiger Competition places it alongside a carefully selected group of films from different countries, highlighting the growing international visibility of Bangladeshi cinema on major festival stages.
Roid marks Mejbaur Rahman Sumon’s second full-length feature film, following the critically acclaimed Hawa, which brought Bangladeshi cinema renewed international attention through its festival run and reception. With Roid, the filmmaker returns with a new cinematic work that continues his exploration of distinctive storytelling and visual language.
After completing its international film festival journey, Roid is scheduled for a theatrical release, bringing the film to audiences at home in the near future.
As Roid prepares for its world premiere at IFFR 2026, the film’s selection in the Tiger Competition stands as a landmark moment, not only for its creators, but also for Bangladesh’s presence in global cinema.
Roid is coming – stay with Roid, let it move you.
