Vila do Cinema
Revealing the Untold Stories Within Us
Founded by internationally acclaimed filmmaker, writer, producer, and educator Sohel Rahman, Vila do Cinema is a global film production and distribution house dedicated to the transformative power of storytelling.
We craft evocative, boundary-crossing narratives that illuminate the unseen, give voice to the silenced, and confront the urgent truths of our time.
From lyrical fiction to immersive creative documentaries, our award-winning films journey across continents—from Europe to Asia—exploring themes of human rights, migration, social justice, and the lived realities of women, children, and working-class communities.
About Us
About Vila Do Cinema
We envision a world where every story—no matter how marginalized—has a platform. Our films spark empathy, ignite conversations, and drive transformation on a global scale.
Film Distribution
Alongside production, Vila do Cinema distributes socially engaged films worldwide, through festivals, universities, NGOs, and cultural institutions, ensuring that urgent stories reach diverse audiences.
Founder Bio
Sohel Rahman is a globally recognized filmmaker, writer, educator, producer, and distributor whose works have received international acclaim. As CEO of Vila do Cinema, he leads with a vision rooted in justice, compassion, and artistic excellence.
Our Films
The Ice Cream Sellers
A documentary exploring the lives of young Rohingya refugees in the world's largest refugee camp. A portrait of resilience and survival.
Songs From Another Eden
A poetic reflection on migration, memory, and the search for belonging—merging mythic symbolism and personal narratives.
A Passagem
Filmed between Europe and South America, this fiction film explores longing, exile, and the invisible borders that separate them.
Work In Progress
Autopsy of a Genocide
An investigative documentary on historical and ongoing human rights atrocities.
Dancing With The Sea
A creative documentary exploring climate change, disappearing coastal communities, and life shaped by water.
Sorrow of Eternity
A narrative drama about grief, love, and resilience—focusing on a retired schoolteacher and his daughter in post-loss Bangladesh.
MasterClass
Masterclass on socially engaged filmmaking
Filmmaking Workshops led by industry experts
Mentoring Programs for emerging and independent filmmakers
Educational Distribution partnerships with universities and NGOs
Screenings
January 1, 2014
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Mentorship
Mentorship for Emerging Filmmakers
Format
- Bootcamp (3–5 day intensive in Dhaka)
- Long-term mentorship (3–6 months)
- Hybrid (bootcamp + monthly check-ins)
Call for Submissions:
- Open theme or identity/resistance stories
- Eligibility: 18–35, students, 1st/2nd-time filmmakers
- Requirements: synopsis, script/treatment, director’s note, WIP footage, bio/CV
Themes We Explore
- Human Rights & Social Justice
- Migrant and Refugee Experiences
- Working-Class Realities
- Women & Children’s Stories
- Global Crises and Everyday Humanity
Collaborate With Us
Vila Do Cinema works with passionate creators, producers, educators, and change-makers across the globe.
Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker, cultural institution, or rights organization, we welcome collaborations that align with our vision for socially conscious cinema.