The University of Chankharpul (2026) [Film Review] — A Sharp and Fearless Look at Campus Power

Akash Haque’s The University of Chankharpul is the kind of Bangladeshi film that deserves attention for its courage as much as its storytelling. Blending satire, drama, and political commentary, the film explores the darker side of university politics while maintaining an unmistakably raw and grounded tone. With a rating of 3.5/5, it emerges as an imperfect but genuinely refreshing addition to contemporary Bangla cinema.

The film’s selection at the 24th Dhaka International Film Festival, followed by the FIPRESCI Award and the Best Feature Film award in the Bangladesh Panorama section, reflects the impact of its unconventional approach.

A Story Rooted in Familiar Campus Realities

Inspired by Rono Anowar’s short story Jhora Patar Dukkho Bilash, the screenplay transforms familiar experiences of university life into a sharply satirical narrative. Hall culture, guest-room politics, senior-junior hierarchy, “Big Brother” influence, and the constant struggle for power all become important pieces of the story.

One of the film’s most interesting choices is that many characters remain unnamed. Rather than making them feel distant, this decision makes them symbolic. They represent recognizable personalities and experiences that can exist in almost any campus environment.

Devodyuti Aich Leads With Conviction

Devodyuti Aich delivers one of the film’s strongest performances as the ambitious protagonist known as Horseman. His character is neither a conventional hero nor a straightforward victim. He is flawed, frustrated, and increasingly trapped within a system where survival often requires compromise.

Aich convincingly portrays Horseman’s changing position within the power structure—from moments of confidence to situations where he is forced to submit. That emotional transition gives the character much of the film’s weight.

Rocky Khan makes an effective impression as the university president, although the character could have benefited from greater depth. Boby Biswas, meanwhile, commands attention as the hall president. His expressions, dialogue delivery and intimidating presence make the character particularly memorable. Akhtaruzzaman Azad brings welcome humour in his special appearance, while Mehedi Hasan Sohan performs well as the campus correspondent.

If you want to watch new Bangla movies for free, click now on HDMovie365.com

Raw Dialogue and Strong Cinematic Moments

Akash Haque’s screenplay is one of the film’s biggest strengths. The dialogue feels deliberately unfiltered, allowing the satire to retain its bite. The cinematography also contributes several striking moments that give the story a more cinematic dimension.

Tabib Mahmud’s music complements the youthful energy of the film effectively. However, the background score and sound design do not always reach the same level, occasionally reducing the impact of otherwise intense scenes.

Where the Film Falls Short

The biggest weakness is the editing. Some sequences feel unnecessarily extended, causing the narrative to lose momentum. Several characters also lack substantial backstories, making them appear more straightforward than they could have been.

The limited presence of layered female characters is another debatable aspect. Most female figures remain connected to the protagonist, power structure, or victimhood. While this can be interpreted as a deliberate reflection of patriarchal campus politics, the film could still have benefited from stronger female perspectives.

A Blunt Ending That Stays With You

Rather than relying on an exaggerated climax, The University of Chankharpul chooses a more restrained and realistic conclusion. Its ending works precisely because it refuses to romanticize power politics. The message is uncomfortable, direct, and grounded in reality.

Despite its pacing issues and occasionally predictable characterization, the film succeeds because it feels honest. Akash Haque’s work captures the spirit of independent filmmaking—ambitious, fearless, and willing to confront uncomfortable realities.

Watch the trending Bangla cinema The University of Chankharpul now on HDMovie365

Final Verdict

The University of Chankharpul may not be flawless, but its ambition and sincerity make it worth watching. With energetic performances, sharp satire, authentic dialogue and a fearless examination of campus power structures, it offers something different from mainstream Bangladeshi cinema.

Rating: ★★★⯪☆ (3.5/5)

For viewers interested in Bangladeshi political satire, university drama and socially relevant Bangla films, this is a bold and promising work that suggests an exciting direction for independent filmmaking.