TBT DESK

There was a time when popular on-screen pairings were almost as important to audiences as the stories of films or dramas themselves. The excitement of seeing favourite stars together often created an added buzz around a project. That trend, however, is changing. Moving beyond familiar and proven pairings, filmmakers are now experimenting with new combinations. Several recent films, dramas and web films feature such fresh on-screen pairings.

Among them, Shihab Shaheen’s web film Cafe Umbrella features the highest number of new combinations. For the first time, Tawsif Mahbub and Bidushi Barnita have been paired together in the project. The web film also features Partha Sheikh-Nazah Nawar and Arefin Jilani-Amina Islam. In other words, the story brings together three different pairs, each representing a distinct relationship dynamic.

Café Umbrella explores different aspects of human relationships, emotions and feelings. The project was recently filmed at various locations, including Cox’s Bazar Airport.

Tawsif Mahbub will portray a pilot in the web film, while his pairing with Bidushi Barnita has already sparked interest among viewers. Audiences are also curious to see how the chemistry between Partha Sheikh and Nazah Nawar, as well as Arefin Jilani and Amina Islam, unfolds on screen.

Tawsif Mahbub and Malaika Chowdhury are also among the newer pairings. The two have worked together in the drama Amar Rajye Tumi. During the drama’s promotional activities, Tawsif was also seen alongside Keya Payel and Malaika.

Meanwhile, Shariful Raj and Sabila Nur have emerged as another pairing generating interest on the big screen. Although Kanabhula Paradox will mark their second film together, the duo previously appeared in Banalata Express. Their reunion in Kanabhula Paradox has already sparked curiosity about how they will be presented in the new story. The film is planned for release during Eid-ul-Azha in 2027.

The arrival of new pairings is now increasingly noticeable across films, dramas and web films. Whether it is a familiar star paired with a new face or artists from different generations coming together, filmmakers are creating fresh chemistry to serve the needs of the story. For audiences, this also offers an opportunity to see familiar stars in new combinations.

Ultimately, it will be the screen that determines which pairings can win the hearts of viewers. Among these new combinations, who will emerge as the audience’s next favourite on-screen duo? That is what viewers will be waiting to find out.