"MR-9: Do or Die" centers around the enigmatic MASUD RANA aka MR-9 skillfully portrayed by ABM Sumon. The movie takes its inspiration from the 1966 novel "Dhongsho Pahar," which marks the inception of the beloved spy series from Bangladesh.
The film delves into the intricate world of espionage as MASUD RANA, a battle-hardened agent for the BCI, joins forces with an elite ensemble of international espionage experts, including charismatic CIA operatives Duke (Michael Jai White) and Taylor (Niko Foster), along with the cunning Indian spy Devi (Sakshi Pradhan).
As time slips away, the team engages in a high-stakes race against the clock to prevent an imminent international terrorist attack targeting Las Vegas. Orchestrated by the enigmatic RNR organization and headed by the evil Roman Ross (Frank Grillo), the sinister plot unveils itself. The stakes soar as they confront a villain fueled by audacious ambitions to reshape the very foundation of the global order, intensifying the suspense and tension to remarkable levels.
Despite its extended duration, the film's pacing mirrors the swiftness of the action, ensuring that time seems to fly by for the audience. Beautifully shot and paced, this film moves swiftly, treating the audience to visuals that will leave them awe-struck. The cinematography, along with a great soundtrack and precise editing, showcases the talent behind bringing this epic novel to the screen. The casting played a crucial role, with Abm Sumon embodying the hero Masud Rana and super villain Frank Grillo as Roman Ross, evoking a sense of classic cinema. To truly experience the film's full impact, I strongly recommend watching it on the big screen. Witnessing every fight, explosion, and meticulous detail on display enhances the beauty of this adaptation, unfolding right before your eyes.
Bangladesh-born director Asif Akbar was undoubtedly the best choice, having grown up following the adventures in book form and dreaming of one day bringing them to life in grand fashion. He and his team have accomplished that with utter respect for the adaptation of this classic series. A sequel is hinted at the end, which I eagerly anticipate.
In closing, Watching MASUD RANA transported me back to my childhood, where films like the Bond series held an irresistible charm, capturing my undivided attention and offering an escape into sheer delight. The experience of MASUD RANA rekindled those nostalgic emotions, reminding me of a time when watching movies was a source of unadulterated fun, allowing you to wholeheartedly cheer for a genuine hero.
The effort to bring this adaptation to life extended over numerous years, culminating in a treatment that would undoubtedly have garnered pride from its author, Qazi Anwar Hussain. This collaborative US-Bangladesh production was shot across the vibrant landscapes of Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Dhaka. The roster of producers includes Al Bravo, Hemdee Kiwanuka, Colin Bates, Asif Akbar, Philip Tan, and Abdul Aziz. Serving as executive producers are Niko Foster, Peter Nguyen, and Phillip B. Goldfine. The screenplay was skillfully adapted from the "Dhonghsho Pahar" novel, a part of the Masud Rana series, by Asif Akbar, Abdul Aziz, and Nazim Ud Daula. Helmed with finesse by director Asif Akbar, the film showcases a stellar ensemble cast, promising an immersive and captivating cinematic journey for its audience.
The film delves into the intricate world of espionage as MASUD RANA, a battle-hardened agent for the BCI, joins forces with an elite ensemble of international espionage experts, including charismatic CIA operatives Duke (Michael Jai White) and Taylor (Niko Foster), along with the cunning Indian spy Devi (Sakshi Pradhan).
As time slips away, the team engages in a high-stakes race against the clock to prevent an imminent international terrorist attack targeting Las Vegas. Orchestrated by the enigmatic RNR organization and headed by the evil Roman Ross (Frank Grillo), the sinister plot unveils itself. The stakes soar as they confront a villain fueled by audacious ambitions to reshape the very foundation of the global order, intensifying the suspense and tension to remarkable levels.
Despite its extended duration, the film's pacing mirrors the swiftness of the action, ensuring that time seems to fly by for the audience. Beautifully shot and paced, this film moves swiftly, treating the audience to visuals that will leave them awe-struck. The cinematography, along with a great soundtrack and precise editing, showcases the talent behind bringing this epic novel to the screen. The casting played a crucial role, with Abm Sumon embodying the hero Masud Rana and super villain Frank Grillo as Roman Ross, evoking a sense of classic cinema. To truly experience the film's full impact, I strongly recommend watching it on the big screen. Witnessing every fight, explosion, and meticulous detail on display enhances the beauty of this adaptation, unfolding right before your eyes.
Bangladesh-born director Asif Akbar was undoubtedly the best choice, having grown up following the adventures in book form and dreaming of one day bringing them to life in grand fashion. He and his team have accomplished that with utter respect for the adaptation of this classic series. A sequel is hinted at the end, which I eagerly anticipate.
In closing, Watching MASUD RANA transported me back to my childhood, where films like the Bond series held an irresistible charm, capturing my undivided attention and offering an escape into sheer delight. The experience of MASUD RANA rekindled those nostalgic emotions, reminding me of a time when watching movies was a source of unadulterated fun, allowing you to wholeheartedly cheer for a genuine hero.
The effort to bring this adaptation to life extended over numerous years, culminating in a treatment that would undoubtedly have garnered pride from its author, Qazi Anwar Hussain. This collaborative US-Bangladesh production was shot across the vibrant landscapes of Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Dhaka. The roster of producers includes Al Bravo, Hemdee Kiwanuka, Colin Bates, Asif Akbar, Philip Tan, and Abdul Aziz. Serving as executive producers are Niko Foster, Peter Nguyen, and Phillip B. Goldfine. The screenplay was skillfully adapted from the "Dhonghsho Pahar" novel, a part of the Masud Rana series, by Asif Akbar, Abdul Aziz, and Nazim Ud Daula. Helmed with finesse by director Asif Akbar, the film showcases a stellar ensemble cast, promising an immersive and captivating cinematic journey for its audience.