MR-9: Do or Die is an spy action thriller film, a joint venture between the United States and Bangladesh, helmed by acclaimed director Asif Akbar. The movie draws its inspiration from the 1966 novel “Dhongsho Pahar” penned by Qazi Anwar Hussain, a renowned literary work in the spy genre. The film is produced by Jaaz Multimedia and Avail Entertainment, bringing together a talented cast and crew to bring this thrilling tale to life.
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| Directed by | Asif Akbar |
| Screenplay by | Nazim Ud Daula Abdul Aziz Asif Akbar |
| Based on | Dhongsho Pahar by Qazi Anwar Hussain |
| Produced by | Asif Akbar Hemdee Kiwanuka Colin Bates Philip Tan Abdul Aziz |
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| Music by | Ricky Kej |
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Release date
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25 August 2023 |
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| Budget | ৳83 crore (US$7.7 million) |
Premise:
MR-9 follows the thrilling exploits of Masud Rana, codenamed MR 9, who serves as the most skilled spy in the Bangladesh Counter Intelligence (BCI). The film revolves around the high-stakes world of espionage and action as Masud Rana embarks on a dangerous mission.
Cast:
- ABM Sumon as Masud Rana
- Sakshi Pradhan
- Tariq Anam Khan
- Sayeda Tithee Omni
- Jessia Islam as Rupa
- Alisha Islam
- Irfan Sajjad
- Michael Jai White
- Matt Passmore
- Frank Grillo
- Sakshi Pradhan
- Omi Vaidya
- Jackie Siegel
- Anisur Rahman Milon
- Shahidul Alam Sachchu
- Oleg Prudius
- Niko Foster
- Remy Grillo
- The Great Khali
Production:
The character of Masud Rana holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Bangladesh, and director Asif Akbar has long cherished the dream of presenting this iconic character to a global audience. The film aims not only to showcase the intriguing world of Masud Rana but also to promote Bangladesh on the international stage in a unique and refreshing way.
Jaaz Multimedia acquired the rights to adapt Qazi Anwar Hussain’s novel “Dhongsho Pahar” for the silver screen. To select the perfect lead actor, a reality show titled “Who will be Masud Rana” aired on Channel i, though later, the main character was chosen through auditions. Ultimately, ABM Sumon was selected for the titular role, with the approval of Qazi Anwar Hussain himself.
The film’s production journey faced various challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and visa issues for the U.S. crew. However, despite the hurdles, the dedicated team successfully shot scenes in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Dhaka. Notably, MR-9 marks the debut of Remy Grillo, the son of Frank Grillo, in the film industry.
Release:
MR-9: Do or Die will hit the screens in both Bengali and English versions. Apart from its release in Bangladesh, the film will also be presented to Tollywood audiences. Premiere Entertainment took on the role of worldwide distributor after the film’s premiere at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
Initially planned for a June 29, 2023 release, the film encountered unforeseen circumstances leading to a slight delay. The eagerly anticipated film is now set to release on August 25, 2023, captivating audiences in both Bangladesh and North America with its gripping storyline and electrifying action sequences.