Amitabh Reza Chowdhury is a visionary Bangladeshi filmmaker, director, and screenwriter whose artistry has redefined the cinematic and visual landscape of the nation. Renowned for his evocative storytelling, he masterfully weaves together social realism with poetic imagery, crafting narratives that resonate deeply with the human soul. His films are not merely stories; they are reflections of contemporary struggles, the intricacies of identity, and the unspoken emotions that shape our existence.
With Aynabaji (2016), a mesmerizing psychological thriller, he delved into the labyrinth of identity and morality, leaving an indelible mark on Bangladeshi cinema. His second feature, Rickshaw Girl, garnered international acclaim, a testament to his ability to tell stories that transcend borders while staying rooted in the essence of Bangladesh.
Beyond cinema, Amitabh Reza has revolutionized the visual storytelling of Bangladesh’s advertising industry, infusing commercial filmmaking with depth, artistry, and innovation. His work does not merely sell ideas; it breathes life into them, transforming ordinary frames into profound visual poetry. Whether through film, television, or advertising, his artistry continues to push boundaries, inspire generations, and etch unforgettable stories onto the canvas of time.
Half Stop Down Ltd, is a film production company of Bangladesh working with a strong commitment to global cinema. The company thrives on the art of storytelling using powerful visuals and rich cinematic language. Amitabh Reza is the mastermind behind this admirable venture. The advertisements he has made under the Half Stop Down label have garnered accolades from critics and audiences alike. Half Stop Down received National & International award for its production.
Amitabh Reza Chowdhury has been serving as an Adjunct Faculty in the Film, Television, and Photography Department at Dhaka University since 2017. He teaches the Film Direction course, covering essential aspects such as film aesthetics, history, mise-en-scène, and post-production. Through his course, he provides students with a comprehensive understanding of cinematic storytelling, visual composition, and the technical and artistic elements of filmmaking. His role involves mentoring aspiring filmmakers, guiding them in creative decision-making, and preparing them for the industry with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Amitabh Reza Chowdhury serves as an Adjunct Faculty at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), where he teaches Film Direction along with specialized courses on Film Aesthetics, Advertising Filmmaking, and Cinema Authorship.
In his Advertising Filmmaking course, he explores the art and techniques of crafting compelling visual narratives for brands. The course delves into advertising strategies, storytelling for commercials, audience psychology, and the creative execution of brand messaging. Students learn scriptwriting, visual composition, cinematography, and post-production techniques specific to advertising films. Through hands-on projects, they gain practical experience in conceptualizing and producing commercials, developing their ability to create impactful and market-driven content.
His Cinema Authorship course focuses on the auteur theory and the role of the director as the primary creative force behind a film. Students study the works of renowned filmmakers, analyzing their distinctive styles, thematic concerns, and artistic signatures. The course encourages students to develop their own cinematic voice through in-depth discussions, research, and film projects that reflect their unique storytelling perspectives.
In each course, Amitabh Reza Chowdhury actively supervises and mentors student film projects, ensuring that theoretical knowledge is translated into practical execution. Under his guidance, students develop short films, commercials, and cinematic essays, allowing them to gain real-world experience and refine their creative and technical skills. His mentorship plays a crucial role in preparing students for the professional filmmaking and advertising industries.
With his vast expertise in filmmaking, Amitabh Reza Chowdhury launched Amitabh Reza Cinema Pathshala, a visionary Virtual Film School designed to nurture the next generation of storytellers. This online platform offers immersive courses in Filmmaking, Documentary Production, and Advertising Filmmaking, providing aspiring filmmakers with the tools to craft compelling visual narratives.
Driven by his passion for cinema and years of industry experience, Amitabh Reza Cinema Pathshala goes beyond traditional teaching—it is a creative hub where students learn the art and craft of storytelling from one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated directors. The courses blend cinematic theory with hands-on practical insights, covering everything from film aesthetics and mise-en-scène to the intricacies of editing, sound design, and commercial storytelling.
With a strong emphasis on real-world application, students not only gain knowledge but also develop their own projects under Amitabh Reza’s mentorship. Whether it's directing a short film, producing a thought-provoking documentary, or crafting an impactful advertisement, this platform empowers filmmakers to bring their visions to life.
Amitabh Reza Cinema Pathshala is more than just an online course—it is a movement to democratize film education, making high-quality training accessible to aspiring filmmakers across Bangladesh and beyond
As the Joint Secretary of Adamya Foundation, Amitabh Reza Chowdhury plays a vital role in driving the foundation’s mission of empowering individuals with special needs. His philanthropic vision is rooted in the belief that every person, regardless of their physical or cognitive challenges, possesses unique talents and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
Through Adamya Foundation, Amitabh Reza actively works to uplift individuals who are often overlooked, ensuring that their skills, courage, and potential do not go unrecognized. He is deeply involved in initiatives that provide education, vocational training, and creative opportunities for people with special needs, helping them integrate into the workforce and lead independent, fulfilling lives.
Beyond structural support, Amitabh Reza brings his storytelling expertise to raise awareness and change societal perceptions about ability and inclusion. He believes that true change begins with shifting mindsets, and he uses the power of media and film to highlight the resilience and contributions of these individuals.
His role at Adamya Foundation is not just administrative—it is deeply personal. He stands as a mentor, advocate, and guardian for those striving to overcome barriers, ensuring that they are not left behind in a competitive world. With an unwavering commitment to non-profit, impact-driven work, he continues to be a beacon of hope, proving that being "especially able" is not a limitation, but a strength that deserves recognition and support.
https://adamyafoundation.com
Amitabh Reza Chowdhury has made significant contributions to the visual industry of Bangladesh and beyond, influencing both the artistic and commercial sectors. His work spans across multiple mediums, including cinema, television, and digital platforms, with a focus on storytelling, visual creativity, and social impact. Here are some key areas where his contributions stand out: Amitabh played a pivotal role in bringing modern Bangladeshi cinema to the global stage. His film Aynabaji (2016) marked a major turning point for the industry. The film not only attracted mass audiences but also proved that Bangladeshi films could achieve high-quality production, compelling narratives, and international appeal. The success of Aynabaji reignited interest in local films, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to think creatively and commercially.
Through his films, commercials, and mentoring initiatives, he has raised the standards of storytelling and production in Bangladesh.