Priyam Archi’s films screen at London festivals

Films featuring Bangladeshi actress Priyam Archi are being showcased at two film festivals in London, reflecting her growing presence on the international circuit.

“Nirvana” was screened at the London Bengali Film Festival on April 23, marking its London premiere. The screening took place at Queen Mary University of London, where the actress was present.

Another film, “The Unexpected”, is scheduled for its UK premiere on May 3 at the UK Asian Film Festival. The film previously had its US premiere at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival.

A separate project featuring the actor, “Deshlai”, is currently awaiting release. Details of its international distribution and direction could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Priyam Archi also attended the world premiere of one of her recent works at the Tasveer Film Festival in Seattle last year. The film’s digital rights in Bangladesh have been acquired by Chorki, with releases planned in Kolkata and the United States, according to organisers.

Currently based in the United Kingdom, the actor has been working across television, web content and film, while maintaining a selective approach to projects.

“I don’t want to stay busy; I want to stay relevant,” she said. “Each work is part of a longer journey where I take time to connect with the character and the story.”

Her recent projects have been screened at multiple international festivals, drawing attention from audiences and critics.

Priyam Archi also highlighted structural challenges facing independent cinema in Bangladesh, noting the absence of a dedicated platform to build consistent audiences.

She said global markets cultivate audiences for independent films through organised distribution and exhibition systems, while similar frameworks remain underdeveloped locally.

Reflecting on her experience in the UK, she said the country’s cultural environment offers both inspiration and relatively equitable opportunities for artistic practice.

Alongside acting, she has also begun working in production. She recently contributed as both actor and producer on an experimental short film, shot in Dhaka last year and currently in post-production.

Speaking about the London screening of “Nirvana”, she said, “The screening went well. The audience turnout was relatively small, as the festival is still new, but I received a few meaningful questions after the show, which mattered to me. I believe it is important to support such boutique or emerging festivals by being present and sharing our work.”