Why Chorabali (2012) Was a Game-Changing Thriller!

Every once in a while, a film comes along that just shifts the landscape. In 2012, Chorabali (Quicksand) did exactly that for Bangladeshi cinema. It was a slick, stylish, and gritty neo-noir thriller that felt fresh and new.

Boasting a powerhouse ensemble cast, the film wasn’t just a great story; it was a showcase for its actors. And among them, Iresh Zaker delivered a live-wire supporting performance that proved his remarkable versatility and cemented his place on the big screen.

At-a-Glance

• Title: Chorabali (Quicksand)
• Type: Movie (Crime / Thriller)
• Release Year: 2012
• Director: Redoan Rony
• Iresh Zaker’s Role: Sonny

The Plot (Spoiler-Free)

(Don’t worry, this entire summary is spoiler-free!)

Chorabali dives deep into the dark underbelly of the city, weaving a complex web of crime, corruption, and revenge. The story revolves around a mysterious and elusive crime lord, the political figures who enable him, and the journalists and investigators trying to expose him.

The film’s title, “Quicksand,” is a perfect metaphor: every character is trapped, sinking deeper into a dangerous world where one wrong move is fatal and no one is quite who they seem.

Iresh Zaker’s Performance as “Sonny”

This role was a significant one for Iresh Zaker. He plays Sonny, a volatile, unpredictable, and trigger-happy member of the criminal enterprise.

This isn’t a subtle character, and that’s the point. Zaker brings a raw, almost frenetic energy to the role. Sonny is loud, arrogant, and genuinely unhinged, making him both terrifying and, at times, darkly comedic.

What makes the performance stand out is that it’s a total departure from the “good guy” roles. He leans into the character’s erratic nature, creating a human live-wire who could snap at any second. It was a standout supporting performance that proved his range and his willingness to take on complex, darker characters—a skill that would later win him a National Award for Chuye Dile Mon.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

• Its Modern Style: Even over a decade later, Chorabali holds up. It was praised at the time for its sharp cinematography, fast-paced editing, and modern, international feel, setting a new benchmark for thrillers in Bangladesh.
• The Powerhouse Cast: The entire ensemble is electric. The interactions between Iresh Zaker, Indranil Sengupta, Jaya Ahsan, and the brilliant Shahiduzzaman Selim are worth the price of admission alone.
• Critical Acclaim: This isn’t just a cult favorite; it was a critical darling. The film went on to win several Bangladesh National Film Awards, cementing its legacy as a landmark film.

Should You Watch Chorabali?

If you’re a fan of gritty crime thrillers or want to see a pivotal film in modern Bangladeshi cinema, Chorabali is essential viewing.

It’s also a must-see for anyone tracking Iresh Zaker’s career. His role as Sonny is a clear and exciting showcase of the acting range he was developing.

Have you seen Chorabali? What did you think of his unhinged performance as Sonny? Let me know in the comments below!