Toofan (2024 film)

Toofan[b] is a 2024 Bangladeshi[a] Bengali-language crime thriller film directed by Raihan Rafi and produced by Shahriar Shakil under the banner of Alpha-i Studios Ltd.

The story of the film revolves around a gangster of Bangladesh in the nineties, featuring Shakib Khan in dual role along with Mimi Chakraborty and Masuma Rahman Nabila,[3] while Chanchal Chowdhury made an extended cameo appearance.

[13] Then on December 11, 2023, through a press conference in Dhaka, production companies Chorki, Alpha-i and SVF officially announced the name of the film as Toofan and Shakib Khan as the lead actor under the direction of Raihan Rafi, which is their first collaboration.

[21][22] The screenplay for the film was written by Adnan Adib Khan, cinematography was done by Tahsin Rahman, art direction by Shihab Nurun Nabi, and costumes were designed by Farzana San.

[24] Later in February 2024, Samakal reported that alongside Indian actress Mimi Chakraborty, as well as Madhumita Sarcar's name was also rumored to be the female lead.

[40] United News of Bangladesh also reported that Shahiduzzaman Selim, Gazi Rakayet, AK Azad Setu and Hasnat Ripon will cast some important characters in the film.

[64][65][66] It crossed over 10 million views in just 24 hours across social media, which is a milestone in the history of Bengali films, which also considered as one of the best teaser of Khan's career.

[84] The second singles of the film Toofan Theme, was released on June 5, 2024 and was performed by Arif Rahman Joy, with Samybrata Dripto contributing backing vocals with additional rap was done by Rapsta Dadu.

The music composed, arrange and backing vocal design were handled by Naved Parvez, while the lyrics were penned by Tahsan Shubho, both of them had previously collaborated with director Raihan Rafi on the title track of his third directorial Poran (2022).

[91] On 17 June 2024, the movie was released in 129 theaters on Holiday Eid al-Adha, clashing with Rashid Palash's Moyurakkhi, Mostafizur Rahman Manik's Dark World, Sumon Dhar's Agontuk and Mohammad Iqbal's Revenge.

[120][121] Critic Rabbani Rabbi on Independent TV praised Toofan for its powerful performances, particularly Shakib Khan's dual role and the strong supporting cast.

He noted that Toofan impresses with its thrilling sequences, Shakib Khan's dedication, and standout performances from Chanchal Chowdhury and the supporting cast.

While the film draws inspiration from Indian cinema, it stands out for its visual appeal, though it suffers from a weak, inconsistent plot and underdeveloped character arcs.

[123] In a review in Prothom Alo, Towheed Feroze highlighted Shakib Khan's impressive dual portrayal of the fierce Toofan and the innocent Shanto.

Despite the film draws inspiration from popular titles and has sparked debates over its themes, Feroze commended its energetic storytelling, viral tracks, and Khan's commanding performance, marking it as a significant revival for the Bangladeshi cinema landscape.

[124] Ahnaf Tahmid Fahid of The Financial Express praised the film as a "cinematic storm," highlighting Khan's "mesmerizing" performance as the ruthless gangster.

[125] Shumona Sharmin Sharna of The Business Post the film as a "cinematic triumph," praising Khan's dual role and Raihan Rafi's expert direction.

[127] Shababa Iqbal of Ice Today called Toofan a "gory, racy thriller", praising Khan's "convincing dual role" and strong editing and cinematography that intensify the film's climax.

[128] Maskawath Ahsan of Amader Shomoy was more positive about the film for its "sound technical execution" but noted that its content fell short in delivering a nuanced story.

"The film excels in its visuals, costume design, and choreography, making it a successful commercial production," he wrote, adding that Toofan reflects the technical strengths of Dhallywood.

While praising its production quality, Jolly also criticized the film for its chaotic storyline and excessive brutality, stating that it promotes lawlessness rather than meaningful entertainment.

While the film excels in action sequences and provides good entertainment, it falters slightly in fully utilizing its talented female cast.

The film borrows elements from classic gangster movies, with nods to Don and Animal, but still manages to stand out with its brutal narrative and gritty action sequences.

The movie borrows elements from classics like Don, KGF and Animal, while the two main songs and dialogue references evoke 90's Bangladeshi pop culture.

Though the film suffers from a lack of character development and a somewhat garbled storyline, it thrives on sharp editing and excellent cinematography, particularly in the thrilling second half.

She added that the film is "not just a thrilling action ride but also a showcase of modern Bangladeshi cinema's potential" with a compelling anti-hero and a visually dynamic narrative.

"The film evokes memories of classics like Don and Animal," they observed, highlighting that despite "predictable characters and a disjointed plot," Khan's dual portrayal of Toofan and Shanto adds "vibrancy and excitement."

While the narrative "falls short in depth and character exploration," the reviewer stressed that Toofan remains "a captivating watch" from start to finish.

While the story "lacks logic," she noted its "high entertainment value" and praised the action, cinematography, and supporting cast, especially Chanchal Chowdhury as ACP Akram.

[176][139][98] Due to overwhelming audience demand, a special screening of the film was held at 12 AM on June 18, 2024, at Chhayabani Cinema in Mymensingh, an exceptional event that hadn't occurred in Bangladesh in the past 20 years.

Ornate outdoor sign on pillars, reading "Ramoji Film City"
Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad , where 90's Bangladesh is depicted.