Rickshaw Girl (2021) - full transcript
A daring Bangladeshi teenager attempts to help her struggling family by disguising herself as a boy and driving her father's prized rickshaw for much needed extra money. Based on the acclaimed novel by Mitali Perkins.
[music]
[sound of birds and monks chanting]
[peaceful music]
[music fades out, children
singing in the background]
Are you done?
Almost done.
Oi, that way.
Hurry up, you're not done already?
How long does it take?
Hurry up. Okay.
The guests will be
arriving before evening.
Did you call Auntie?
You should call.
[men continue arguing in Bengali]
What's going on?
Where is the rest of the yogurt?
Go get it!
Why are you standing here for?
I won't pay a single
taka if you don't finish it
by this evening.
Stupid people.
[cheerful music from the other room]
The yogurt is coming?
On the way.
Check it, Chairman is very angry.
Okay.
You have my phone number? Call me, okay?
What's this?
I will make it 50
taka, take it or leave it.
Chacha, you said you'd pay me 200.
You gave 200 to the other girl.
This is very unfair.
Are you arguing with me?
I will tell your father.
Go tell him, he'll be proud.
Oi, What's the problem?
Chairman, sir, Mamun is not giving me
the money I was promised.
You tell me, is this justice?
Mamun where did you get
this troublemaker from?
Clear up this matter.
Here's another 50,
now go, before I hit you.
200 Taka, I'm not leaving.
Out!
No more arguments.
Now get out!
[man talks on the phone]
[men greet each other in Bengali]
[men continue talking in Bengali]
[man yells at the girl]
Hey girl, what are you doing?
Someone catch her!
[men yelling in Bengali]
[men yells at the girl]
[Bollywood music]
[music intensifies]
[pop music playing in the background]
You here again?
Go!
I'll take a pan.
[kids talk in the background]
- [woman in Bengali]
- I know you will.
[woman talking in Bengali]
How was the groom?
Like a monkey.
Ama,
they were supposed to give me 200,
but they only gave me 100.
Be happy with it.
Look at your clothes.
Go to the pond, take a shower.
[mysterious music]
[singing starts]
[music fades out, the
sound of train from afar]
What happened to him?
Do you know him?
He's my father.
Aba?
Aba, what happened?
Aba, get up.
Yes.
Slowly, slowly.
Just watch.
- It's okay, just the sun.
Go home, I am coming.
- No, no, baba, you sit
back, I'll take you home.
Aba, sit back.
Go slowly.
Aba, do you want to pull up the hood?
No need, Naima.
Sun is almost down.
[talking in Bengali]
Papa, today I painted a very big painting.
When my passengers see your painting,
they say, how beautiful.
I feel proud of that.
Don't give up painting.
Don't worry, Aba, I will
never give up painting.
These pictures are very special for me.
It feels like it is a part of our family.
[Aba coughing]
[sad music]
Aba's been sick for a while.
When do you plan to
take him to the hospital?
Should we just let him die then?
[calm music]
[music swells with orchestra]
[calm night with insects
in the background]
[orchestra music]
[singing starts]
[speaking in foreign language]
[young man replies in foreign language]
Barek!
Get up! Go get my breakfast!
[two men arguing in Bengali outside]
[men continue to argue intensely]
[argument continues]
Barek.
Barek.
Boo!
Hey, wait! I have to talk to you.
How do you live with that
scoundrel uncle of yours?
Did you know he tried to
cheat me out of my money?
Where else would I go?
I curse my parents for passing away
and leaving me in this hell.
What's this?
Uncle's breakfast.
Hey Naima, my uncle will kill me.
Give him this.
He doesn't have to eat parathas every day.
Naima, give me the breakfast!
Naima, I'm telling you!
Give me the breakfast!
Naima! Hey, Naima!
Naima, give it to me.
Give it to me!
Hey Barek, how do you call
the passengers to your bus?
Dhaka! Dhaka! Dhaka!
- Naima, stop! Naima, stop!
Naima, give it to me!
Naima, please, stop!
Naima, give it to me!
Give it to me!
Naima! Naima, please, stop!
[emotional music]
Give the prescription to the compounder.
He will tell you where to buy it from.
How long must he take it?
Forever.
Better?
How much money it will cost?
I'm not sure, but I think you
need a good amount of money.
Please, go out.
He will tell you where to go.
[sending-off in Bengali]
[background chatter in
Bengali] [Aba coughing]
What took you so long?
Take your father home.
I am already late for work, go.
Let's go.
Let's go.
What was the doctor saying?
I don't know.
[Aba coughing]
Aba, how far can you go with one pedal?
You see, you have to place
your left leg on the pedal
and climb on the seat.
Then you have to pedal
out, slowly to move forward.
Pedal up to four or five
times, then sit back to this.
Selim didn't go for work?
Get your father.
He's sleeping, he's not doing well.
Call him, and tell him that I have come.
Salim?
Salim?
Why is the rickshaw here?
Why aren't you out for work?
Have you earned enough yesterday?
Just leaving, Mamun.
Please, come in.
If you don't pay this month,
I'm taking the rickshaw away.
A few more days, please
Mamun, I will pay you.
Are you made of excuses?
Can't you see he's not doing well?
Hey, Naima, go inside.
Naima, come inside.
Come.
No, no hanky panky.
I want my money back within a week.
Do you get paid for all this?
Why would I?
Your uncle is an ass.
I know.
Sometimes I want to escape this place.
You're so lucky,
you get to go to Dhaka every single day.
Move.
Dhaka has everything.
Dhaka is the city of money.
Money is in the air.
Why don't you go then?
I thought of leaving this place.
This place holds me back.
I feel like I'll be all alone.
Take me along.
What?
It's very difficult to survive in Dhaka.
And Dhaka is not safe for girls.
Look, I think it's better
if you don't go to Dhaka.
You know what?
It might be a very good choice for you,
if you find a job in the garment factory.
Doesn't Siam live in Dhaka?
All the actors and actresses,
they all live in Dhaka.
Hey?
Do you think Mamun will
really take our rickshaw?
What do you think?
Sister, what are you doing here?
You look hungry, did
you eat anything all day?
Are you upset, sister?
Sometimes I think there's
no place for me in this world.
Nonsense, you're my hero.
Then you need better heroes.
Apa, I will get a job
in the garment factory.
Absolutely not.
You're supposed to be concentrating
on your studies right now.
Promise me.
Promise.
Remember the lotus robin,
and snaky roads you drew on my notebook?
My teacher saw it
and appreciated it a lot.
He thought I drew it.
Later, I told him it was you.
School is just not for me.
You see that boat over there?
Yes.
You know, I drew that.
Father, how are you doing today?
Ama, I'm hungry.
The doctor said everything will be fine.
Ama you're home?
Did they let you go today?
Ama, did you buy the medicine?
Ama?
Madame accused me of
stealing a mobile phone.
She did not pay me.
She said she will call the police.
Did she call you a thief?
Ama wait, let's go.
I'm gonna beat the shit out of that woman.
What do you think you are?
You cannot even pass fifth grade.
If you had the ability, then go.
Buy your father's medicine.
Your stupid painting
cannot bring money for us.
[sad music]
[Naima sobbing]
Mamun bhai, please Mamun
bhai, give me to two days more.
I'll get you the money.
Hey, where are you taking my rickshaw?
Let go.
Mamun, bhai please,
give me two days more.
Shut up.
You'll be dead in two days.
Wait, let it go.
Let go, my rickshaw.
Hey!
How can you do this?
Can't you see my father's sick?
Don't talk, it's my money.
Let's go.
[men yells as they run away]
[woodwind music]
Take it and sell it tomorrow.
Do we have any other choice?
[slow string music]
Pabna! Sirajgonj! Dhaka! [repeatedly]
[shouting the bus route in Bengali]
[continues shouting
the bus route in Bengali]
Where are you going?
Dhaka.
What do you mean by Dhaka?
Naima, go home.
Go home.
Are you crazy?
What are you going to do in Dhaka?
I will work.
Who will give you work?
You.
[man talk loudly in Bengali]
[conductor yells]
[sound of traffic]
[conductor yells in Bengali]
[conductor talks in Bengali]
I spoke to Mina Khala.
She will give you work.
Where?
Let's go, I will drop you there.
Okay.
[loud street noise]
Naima, come.
[doorbell rings]
[sound of TV from inside the room]
[man and woman greet
each other in Bengali]
What's your name?
Naima.
Do you know how to cook?
Yes.
Okay.
You sit there.
I'll take you home after my
work, it's going to be late.
- As-salamu'alaykum
-Wa-alaykum salam [Islamic greeting]
[TV dialogue in the background]
My trip will start now.
Mina Khala is a very nice person.
Anything you need,
just give me a call, okay?
Okay.
You still have time.
If you want to go back
home, I can take you.
No, I'll be fine.
[melancholic guitar music]
Come.
[talking in Bengali]
Hello?
Yes, yes.
This girl is from my village.
You are at home, right?
Okay, okay.
I'm coming within an hour.
[doorbell rings]
Come, come. Just give me a minute.
Open your sandal and come.
Come inside.
Sit here.
Your husband is home, right?
Yeah, he's home.
What's your name?
She's Naima.
Nice name.
Did you go to school?
Up to class five.
So, she's gonna stay here,
and you will cook and clean.
Are you hungry?
There's food in the fridge.
That's your room.
Get some rest, I will show
you everything in the morning.
Tell me one thing.
What does Aisha know about stock market?
Shut up, Asif.
My god, we'll be late again.
We're going to Aisha's
party tonight, right?
We are, but we have a new maid.
I don't think we can be so late tonight.
So what?
Just lock her up, she'll be fine.
Naima, clean it up.
Yes.
Honey, I'm leaving.
So, I'll pick you up at 7:30?
Yeah.
Okay, take care.
Bye.
See you soon.
See you.
Naima, we'll be late tonight,
but if you face any problem,
you can call the manager.
[elevator bell dings]
[mysterious string music]
[Islamic call to prayer from the outside]
- [Alexa Speaker] I'm having trouble
connecting to the internet.
Take a look at the help section.
I'm having trouble
connecting to the internet.
Take a look at the help section.
[bird chirping]
[nostalgic sad music]
That's why I don't like it.
She doesn't have any
sense of time or anything.
I told you to leave it-
Stop blaming me.
Why you are lying on the floor?
But you never listen.
Go, lock the door.
Oh, man.
Naima!
Naima, where are you?
[exciting music]
[tense music]
[music becomes more rhythmic]
[crowd chanting]
[crowd yells]
[indistinct shouting]
- Wait!
- Don't stop, just run!
Why are we running?
Because you don't want to
get caught by the cops, do you?
[music fades out]
Now what?
You guys wait here, I'll get the money.
Excuse me.
- As-salamu alaykum - Wa-alaykum salam
[chatter in Bengali]
[chatter in Bengali]
This is yours.
Why?
This is your payment.
Why did they pay us?
If you walk in demonstration
they give you 100 taka,
and if you get involved in a fight,
they pay you 200 taka.
But what are we protesting?
Who cares?
Where are you going?
- I don't know.
Where are you guys going?
Our home.
Is this your home?
This is all of our many homes.
And this is my dining room.
[emotional music]
This is my bathroom.
Hey, you don't wanna eat?
[singing in Bengali]
- This is what you guys do every day?
No, we have different jobs every day.
And what if you don't have any job?
Then we make our own.
Hey! Hey, you kids again.
Oh, he's here again.
- How dare you!
Haven't I told you not to come here?
Let's go.
If I see you next time,
I'll beat you, I swear.
This city's full of rotten kids.
[slow music]
[music continues, inaudible
background dialogue]
[the kids talking in Bengali]
[the kids talk in Bengali]
Is this where you guys sleep?
Every corner of Dhaka city is our bedroom.
[speaking in Bengali]
[chatter in Bengali from inside]
Get out.
You come to work
drunk, you think it's a bar?
No, it's my garage.
Get out, don't come back.
Get out!
This city full of hungry men,
and I can't find a decent puller.
[man replies angry in Bengali]
Chacha, how much is this rickshaw?
Why, want to buy it?
No, I want to ride it.
Is this a joke?
I know how to pull a rickshaw.
Where are you from?
I'm from Paksey.
My father is a rickshaw puller there.
You don't believe me?
Look, look.
Hey, hey, get off, get off, get off now!
And get out.
[man swears in Bengali]
Chacha, my father is very sick.
If I can ride the rickshaw,
I can send him some
money for his treatment.
Go get some other job.
But I'm the daughter of a rickshaw puller.
That's not good enough
for pulling rickshaw.
Then what do you need
to be a rickshaw puller?
You need to be a man first.
[indistinct dialogue between the men]
[melancholic music]
[music intensifies]
[intense emotional uplifting music]
[music fades out]
[man grunting]
Need help?
What do you do?
Nothing.
Looking for any work.
Nah, I can't find anything.
Huh?
Can't find anything.
Come with me, let's find you something.
What's your name again?
Naim.
He's from our village.
Do you have any experience
in rickshaw pulling?
Yes.
Look, I'm taking him with your reference.
Can he pay the daily rent?
He's young and brave.
Let's see.
[man explaining how to
use the rickshaw in Bengali]
[bell ringing]
Can I take it out now?
Huh?
Can I take it out now?
Yes, you can.
Oh no, it's quite possible.
I need it done by tomorrow.
Hey, will you go to Azimpur?
If you lead the way, I can take you.
What's this?
You don't even know the streets here,
and you're riding rickshaw here.
Hey, you wanna go?
Hello?
Yeah.
Yeah, I'm looking into the matter.
I'll see what I can do.
[guitar music]
Whose rickshaw is this?
Huh?
You, do you know Doel Chattar?
Huh.
Come on, hurry up, let's go.
Yes.
[emotional music]
Tikatuli?
Here.
I'm impressed, you are doing well.
I told you, he will be good.
Hey, where are you going?
Why do you leave?
I don't have a place to stay.
You can stay here with them.
Did you eat anything?
[man talks in Bengali]
[Naima replies in Bengali]
[chatter in the background in Bengali]
What happened?
Hit by bus by.
What happened?
Hit by bus.
[men continue talking indistinct]
Hey Balbul, take him to the nearby clinic.
[men continue talking in Bengali]
Bulbul, take some money.
Go.
[indistinct chatter in the background]
[dog barking from afar]
[slow string music]
Do you recognize yourself in the mirror?
Nope.
How long it will go on?
I don't know.
Till Aba gets well.
Give this to Ama.
Do you wanna talk with her?
Not yet.
What are you looking at?
Rickshaw girl.
I need to go now.
Your rickshaw looks good.
I know.
Stop, stop, pull aside.
Don't you know this is a VIP road?
How dare you come on this road?
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine.
Sorry.
- Go, go, go.
You are taking too much time.
Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry.
- Let me punish you.
My sorry, my sorry, my sorry.
So you will remember.
Sorry.
Riding rickshaw on the VIP road.
Hey you, this way, this way.
Sister, he will not steal again.
Forgive him.
[overlapping dialogue in another language]
How much to change the tubes?
300.
Now go, I don't have time for this.
300.
Anything cheaper?
No, Chinese 300, local 200.
If I pay you 300, what will I eat?
There's no bargaining here.
If you're hungry, come have food here.
Jamilla? Did you store the water?
There will be no running water tomorrow.
Okay, give me the local one.
Okay.
Hi Naim.
You didn't sleep?
You wanna take a drug?
No, I don't smoke.
Be a man.
[Naima coughing]
[Balbul laughing]
You smoke like a girl.
Look at your hand,
smooth like my girlfriend.
[Bulbul talks in Bengali]
How much you earned today?
1200.
How much?
1200.
Acha...
How do you earn so much money
with this soft body of yours?
Stop smoking so much
ganja, maybe you'll earn too.
Hold on, oi!
Tomorrow I will take
you to your hero's place.
Siam Ahmed, Siam Ahmed.
[Balbul laughing]
Does Siam live here?
Huh?
Siam Ahmed?
Yes, yes he does, just wait.
Hey you, come with me.
Me?
Yeah, we need an extra for today.
Aye, take my rickshaw.
No, no, this rickshaw is nicer.
Let's go, let's go.
Got it, I'm coming.
Hey, remember to give me my cut!
- Yes. Okay, okay.
Come, come, come.
You stay here, okay?
[indistinct chatters]
Yeah, it's okay.
Siam, come.
Siam, everything okay?
Show me, what you want to do?
[Siam practicing the song]
See, don't look at the camera, please.
Okay, guys ready? On standby.
Riti, come with me.
[upbeat music]
Got it, excellent.
Well done, Siam. [crowd cheering]
Riti?
Yes, sir?
Turn off the camera.
[indistinct chatter]
Nice rickshaw.
I painted it.
Sorry?
I painted it.
Oh, really?
What's your name?
Naim.
[Siam calls somebody]
Take it.
Good job, bro.
Keep it.
Hey, Toya. He painted this rickshaw.
Yeah. It's so nice.
Beautiful.
[exciting music]
Bulbul, I just met Siam Ahmed inside.
Really, look.
He gave me money.
Then give me my cut.
What cut?
I gave you chance to meet Siam Ahmed.
No you didn't, they chose me!
Huh?
Hey, wait, wait. Wait, give me my cut.
Give me.
Give, give, give, give me.
You ungrateful piece of shit, give me.
Bulbul!
Give me my cut!
It's my money!
Give me, give me my share!
Give me!
Bulbul it's my money!
Balbul!
[Badul speaks in another language]
[Naima yells angrily]
Hey! Hey!
What are you doing?
Stop!
He stole my money!
What?
Is it true?
What? No.
This piece of shit is a liar.
Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey!
Leave him! Leave him!
Bulbul, give me my money back!
Why?
This bitch fooled all of us.
She's a girl.
Hey?
If you are not a girl,
then take off your pants?
Go! Then go!
You are a boy?
Then let me touch.
Let me touch!
Where is the harm?
Don't touch me. Where is the harm?
Something to hide, huh?
Something to hide!
Something to hide, you bitch!
If you come close to
me, I'll chop your head off!
Stop! Stop!
I don't care who you are,
I don't need any problem!
Just get out of my garage!
Drop the chopper!
Bulbul, give me my money back.
Bulbul, give the money back.
Give the money back now!
Shoo!
Hey, you?
How many times do I have to kick you out?
Not even crying allowed here.
Leave me alone.
What is it?
Are you sad?
The city looks so beautiful from up here.
And up close?
So ugly.
[guard chuckles]
Not for those that found their purpose.
Then, even the ugly is beautiful,
Isn't it?
Now go, before I call the manager.
[melancholic music]
[sound of traffic]
[music continues]
[people playing and talking in Bengali]
Yes!
The garage is closed. No work now.
I think I've seen you somewhere.
Do you want something?
You told me to come here if I was hungry.
I'm hungry.
Will you go back to your home now?
Huh?
Oh, rickshaw painting?
We had a few foreign buyers,
but the quality of
rickshaw painting is so bad,
no one wants to pay for it.
What's your plan now?
Can I stay here tonight?
I'll leave early tomorrow.
Stay tonight only, huh?
Be what you are.
There is no pride in being a man.
[dog barking from afar]
[hopeful music]
Beautiful.
Did you paint this?
Yes.
Can you paint more like this?
What if I can?
You don't have to worry
about your father's treatment.
One week left.
We are warning neighbors
of the slum, leave your homes.
Please, leave your homes.
So, you have all my orders?
Yes, it's all here.
You can check it, sir.
Thank you so much.
Here, I have your payment.
5K, right?
Yes, 5,000.
Here you go.
Naima?
Naima, come here.
This is your money.
Here, take it.
Sir?
Yes? She's the painter.
She did all the paintings.
Oh, really?
You have done an amazing job, actually.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
So I can order more, right?
Of course you can order.
Yeah, I think they're gonna like it.
Of course.
Thank you.
Barek!
Wait, I'm coming!
Barek, how are you?
Where have you been?
I didn't find you anywhere.
I'm right here.
Listen, take this money, give this to Ama.
Tell her to take Aba
to the hospital, okay?
Your father died.
And I don't have to
ride rickshaws anymore.
Naima, your father died yesterday!
What?
Salim is no more.
Naima?
Naima?
She needs you.
Your mother needs you.
Let's go home, Naima.
Let's go home.
[woodwind music]
Naima! Naima! Naima! Naima!
Naima, what happened?
Why are you running like this?
Hey, Naima!
[Naima crying]
When my passengers see your painting,
they say, how beautiful.
I feel proud of that.
Don't give up painting.
[emotional music]
[music intensifies]
Aba.
Salaam, peace.
- Excuse me is the artist around?
- Yeah, there she is.
[emotional music]
[music]
[sound of birds and monks chanting]
[peaceful music]
[music fades out, children
singing in the background]
Are you done?
Almost done.
Oi, that way.
Hurry up, you're not done already?
How long does it take?
Hurry up. Okay.
The guests will be
arriving before evening.
Did you call Auntie?
You should call.
[men continue arguing in Bengali]
What's going on?
Where is the rest of the yogurt?
Go get it!
Why are you standing here for?
I won't pay a single
taka if you don't finish it
by this evening.
Stupid people.
[cheerful music from the other room]
The yogurt is coming?
On the way.
Check it, Chairman is very angry.
Okay.
You have my phone number? Call me, okay?
What's this?
I will make it 50
taka, take it or leave it.
Chacha, you said you'd pay me 200.
You gave 200 to the other girl.
This is very unfair.
Are you arguing with me?
I will tell your father.
Go tell him, he'll be proud.
Oi, What's the problem?
Chairman, sir, Mamun is not giving me
the money I was promised.
You tell me, is this justice?
Mamun where did you get
this troublemaker from?
Clear up this matter.
Here's another 50,
now go, before I hit you.
200 Taka, I'm not leaving.
Out!
No more arguments.
Now get out!
[man talks on the phone]
[men greet each other in Bengali]
[men continue talking in Bengali]
[man yells at the girl]
Hey girl, what are you doing?
Someone catch her!
[men yelling in Bengali]
[men yells at the girl]
[Bollywood music]
[music intensifies]
[pop music playing in the background]
You here again?
Go!
I'll take a pan.
[kids talk in the background]
- [woman in Bengali]
- I know you will.
[woman talking in Bengali]
How was the groom?
Like a monkey.
Ama,
they were supposed to give me 200,
but they only gave me 100.
Be happy with it.
Look at your clothes.
Go to the pond, take a shower.
[mysterious music]
[singing starts]
[music fades out, the
sound of train from afar]
What happened to him?
Do you know him?
He's my father.
Aba?
Aba, what happened?
Aba, get up.
Yes.
Slowly, slowly.
Just watch.
- It's okay, just the sun.
Go home, I am coming.
- No, no, baba, you sit
back, I'll take you home.
Aba, sit back.
Go slowly.
Aba, do you want to pull up the hood?
No need, Naima.
Sun is almost down.
[talking in Bengali]
Papa, today I painted a very big painting.
When my passengers see your painting,
they say, how beautiful.
I feel proud of that.
Don't give up painting.
Don't worry, Aba, I will
never give up painting.
These pictures are very special for me.
It feels like it is a part of our family.
[Aba coughing]
[sad music]
Aba's been sick for a while.
When do you plan to
take him to the hospital?
Should we just let him die then?
[calm music]
[music swells with orchestra]
[calm night with insects
in the background]
[orchestra music]
[singing starts]
[speaking in foreign language]
[young man replies in foreign language]
Barek!
Get up! Go get my breakfast!
[two men arguing in Bengali outside]
[men continue to argue intensely]
[argument continues]
Barek.
Barek.
Boo!
Hey, wait! I have to talk to you.
How do you live with that
scoundrel uncle of yours?
Did you know he tried to
cheat me out of my money?
Where else would I go?
I curse my parents for passing away
and leaving me in this hell.
What's this?
Uncle's breakfast.
Hey Naima, my uncle will kill me.
Give him this.
He doesn't have to eat parathas every day.
Naima, give me the breakfast!
Naima, I'm telling you!
Give me the breakfast!
Naima! Hey, Naima!
Naima, give it to me.
Give it to me!
Hey Barek, how do you call
the passengers to your bus?
Dhaka! Dhaka! Dhaka!
- Naima, stop! Naima, stop!
Naima, give it to me!
Naima, please, stop!
Naima, give it to me!
Give it to me!
Naima! Naima, please, stop!
[emotional music]
Give the prescription to the compounder.
He will tell you where to buy it from.
How long must he take it?
Forever.
Better?
How much money it will cost?
I'm not sure, but I think you
need a good amount of money.
Please, go out.
He will tell you where to go.
[sending-off in Bengali]
[background chatter in
Bengali] [Aba coughing]
What took you so long?
Take your father home.
I am already late for work, go.
Let's go.
Let's go.
What was the doctor saying?
I don't know.
[Aba coughing]
Aba, how far can you go with one pedal?
You see, you have to place
your left leg on the pedal
and climb on the seat.
Then you have to pedal
out, slowly to move forward.
Pedal up to four or five
times, then sit back to this.
Selim didn't go for work?
Get your father.
He's sleeping, he's not doing well.
Call him, and tell him that I have come.
Salim?
Salim?
Why is the rickshaw here?
Why aren't you out for work?
Have you earned enough yesterday?
Just leaving, Mamun.
Please, come in.
If you don't pay this month,
I'm taking the rickshaw away.
A few more days, please
Mamun, I will pay you.
Are you made of excuses?
Can't you see he's not doing well?
Hey, Naima, go inside.
Naima, come inside.
Come.
No, no hanky panky.
I want my money back within a week.
Do you get paid for all this?
Why would I?
Your uncle is an ass.
I know.
Sometimes I want to escape this place.
You're so lucky,
you get to go to Dhaka every single day.
Move.
Dhaka has everything.
Dhaka is the city of money.
Money is in the air.
Why don't you go then?
I thought of leaving this place.
This place holds me back.
I feel like I'll be all alone.
Take me along.
What?
It's very difficult to survive in Dhaka.
And Dhaka is not safe for girls.
Look, I think it's better
if you don't go to Dhaka.
You know what?
It might be a very good choice for you,
if you find a job in the garment factory.
Doesn't Siam live in Dhaka?
All the actors and actresses,
they all live in Dhaka.
Hey?
Do you think Mamun will
really take our rickshaw?
What do you think?
Sister, what are you doing here?
You look hungry, did
you eat anything all day?
Are you upset, sister?
Sometimes I think there's
no place for me in this world.
Nonsense, you're my hero.
Then you need better heroes.
Apa, I will get a job
in the garment factory.
Absolutely not.
You're supposed to be concentrating
on your studies right now.
Promise me.
Promise.
Remember the lotus robin,
and snaky roads you drew on my notebook?
My teacher saw it
and appreciated it a lot.
He thought I drew it.
Later, I told him it was you.
School is just not for me.
You see that boat over there?
Yes.
You know, I drew that.
Father, how are you doing today?
Ama, I'm hungry.
The doctor said everything will be fine.
Ama you're home?
Did they let you go today?
Ama, did you buy the medicine?
Ama?
Madame accused me of
stealing a mobile phone.
She did not pay me.
She said she will call the police.
Did she call you a thief?
Ama wait, let's go.
I'm gonna beat the shit out of that woman.
What do you think you are?
You cannot even pass fifth grade.
If you had the ability, then go.
Buy your father's medicine.
Your stupid painting
cannot bring money for us.
[sad music]
[Naima sobbing]
Mamun bhai, please Mamun
bhai, give me to two days more.
I'll get you the money.
Hey, where are you taking my rickshaw?
Let go.
Mamun, bhai please,
give me two days more.
Shut up.
You'll be dead in two days.
Wait, let it go.
Let go, my rickshaw.
Hey!
How can you do this?
Can't you see my father's sick?
Don't talk, it's my money.
Let's go.
[men yells as they run away]
[woodwind music]
Take it and sell it tomorrow.
Do we have any other choice?
[slow string music]
Pabna! Sirajgonj! Dhaka! [repeatedly]
[shouting the bus route in Bengali]
[continues shouting
the bus route in Bengali]
Where are you going?
Dhaka.
What do you mean by Dhaka?
Naima, go home.
Go home.
Are you crazy?
What are you going to do in Dhaka?
I will work.
Who will give you work?
You.
[man talk loudly in Bengali]
[conductor yells]
[sound of traffic]
[conductor yells in Bengali]
[conductor talks in Bengali]
I spoke to Mina Khala.
She will give you work.
Where?
Let's go, I will drop you there.
Okay.
[loud street noise]
Naima, come.
[doorbell rings]
[sound of TV from inside the room]
[man and woman greet
each other in Bengali]
What's your name?
Naima.
Do you know how to cook?
Yes.
Okay.
You sit there.
I'll take you home after my
work, it's going to be late.
- As-salamu'alaykum
-Wa-alaykum salam [Islamic greeting]
[TV dialogue in the background]
My trip will start now.
Mina Khala is a very nice person.
Anything you need,
just give me a call, okay?
Okay.
You still have time.
If you want to go back
home, I can take you.
No, I'll be fine.
[melancholic guitar music]
Come.
[talking in Bengali]
Hello?
Yes, yes.
This girl is from my village.
You are at home, right?
Okay, okay.
I'm coming within an hour.
[doorbell rings]
Come, come. Just give me a minute.
Open your sandal and come.
Come inside.
Sit here.
Your husband is home, right?
Yeah, he's home.
What's your name?
She's Naima.
Nice name.
Did you go to school?
Up to class five.
So, she's gonna stay here,
and you will cook and clean.
Are you hungry?
There's food in the fridge.
That's your room.
Get some rest, I will show
you everything in the morning.
Tell me one thing.
What does Aisha know about stock market?
Shut up, Asif.
My god, we'll be late again.
We're going to Aisha's
party tonight, right?
We are, but we have a new maid.
I don't think we can be so late tonight.
So what?
Just lock her up, she'll be fine.
Naima, clean it up.
Yes.
Honey, I'm leaving.
So, I'll pick you up at 7:30?
Yeah.
Okay, take care.
Bye.
See you soon.
See you.
Naima, we'll be late tonight,
but if you face any problem,
you can call the manager.
[elevator bell dings]
[mysterious string music]
[Islamic call to prayer from the outside]
- [Alexa Speaker] I'm having trouble
connecting to the internet.
Take a look at the help section.
I'm having trouble
connecting to the internet.
Take a look at the help section.
[bird chirping]
[nostalgic sad music]
That's why I don't like it.
She doesn't have any
sense of time or anything.
I told you to leave it-
Stop blaming me.
Why you are lying on the floor?
But you never listen.
Go, lock the door.
Oh, man.
Naima!
Naima, where are you?
[exciting music]
[tense music]
[music becomes more rhythmic]
[crowd chanting]
[crowd yells]
[indistinct shouting]
- Wait!
- Don't stop, just run!
Why are we running?
Because you don't want to
get caught by the cops, do you?
[music fades out]
Now what?
You guys wait here, I'll get the money.
Excuse me.
- As-salamu alaykum - Wa-alaykum salam
[chatter in Bengali]
[chatter in Bengali]
This is yours.
Why?
This is your payment.
Why did they pay us?
If you walk in demonstration
they give you 100 taka,
and if you get involved in a fight,
they pay you 200 taka.
But what are we protesting?
Who cares?
Where are you going?
- I don't know.
Where are you guys going?
Our home.
Is this your home?
This is all of our many homes.
And this is my dining room.
[emotional music]
This is my bathroom.
Hey, you don't wanna eat?
[singing in Bengali]
- This is what you guys do every day?
No, we have different jobs every day.
And what if you don't have any job?
Then we make our own.
Hey! Hey, you kids again.
Oh, he's here again.
- How dare you!
Haven't I told you not to come here?
Let's go.
If I see you next time,
I'll beat you, I swear.
This city's full of rotten kids.
[slow music]
[music continues, inaudible
background dialogue]
[the kids talking in Bengali]
[the kids talk in Bengali]
Is this where you guys sleep?
Every corner of Dhaka city is our bedroom.
[speaking in Bengali]
[chatter in Bengali from inside]
Get out.
You come to work
drunk, you think it's a bar?
No, it's my garage.
Get out, don't come back.
Get out!
This city full of hungry men,
and I can't find a decent puller.
[man replies angry in Bengali]
Chacha, how much is this rickshaw?
Why, want to buy it?
No, I want to ride it.
Is this a joke?
I know how to pull a rickshaw.
Where are you from?
I'm from Paksey.
My father is a rickshaw puller there.
You don't believe me?
Look, look.
Hey, hey, get off, get off, get off now!
And get out.
[man swears in Bengali]
Chacha, my father is very sick.
If I can ride the rickshaw,
I can send him some
money for his treatment.
Go get some other job.
But I'm the daughter of a rickshaw puller.
That's not good enough
for pulling rickshaw.
Then what do you need
to be a rickshaw puller?
You need to be a man first.
[indistinct dialogue between the men]
[melancholic music]
[music intensifies]
[intense emotional uplifting music]
[music fades out]
[man grunting]
Need help?
What do you do?
Nothing.
Looking for any work.
Nah, I can't find anything.
Huh?
Can't find anything.
Come with me, let's find you something.
What's your name again?
Naim.
He's from our village.
Do you have any experience
in rickshaw pulling?
Yes.
Look, I'm taking him with your reference.
Can he pay the daily rent?
He's young and brave.
Let's see.
[man explaining how to
use the rickshaw in Bengali]
[bell ringing]
Can I take it out now?
Huh?
Can I take it out now?
Yes, you can.
Oh no, it's quite possible.
I need it done by tomorrow.
Hey, will you go to Azimpur?
If you lead the way, I can take you.
What's this?
You don't even know the streets here,
and you're riding rickshaw here.
Hey, you wanna go?
Hello?
Yeah.
Yeah, I'm looking into the matter.
I'll see what I can do.
[guitar music]
Whose rickshaw is this?
Huh?
You, do you know Doel Chattar?
Huh.
Come on, hurry up, let's go.
Yes.
[emotional music]
Tikatuli?
Here.
I'm impressed, you are doing well.
I told you, he will be good.
Hey, where are you going?
Why do you leave?
I don't have a place to stay.
You can stay here with them.
Did you eat anything?
[man talks in Bengali]
[Naima replies in Bengali]
[chatter in the background in Bengali]
What happened?
Hit by bus by.
What happened?
Hit by bus.
[men continue talking indistinct]
Hey Balbul, take him to the nearby clinic.
[men continue talking in Bengali]
Bulbul, take some money.
Go.
[indistinct chatter in the background]
[dog barking from afar]
[slow string music]
Do you recognize yourself in the mirror?
Nope.
How long it will go on?
I don't know.
Till Aba gets well.
Give this to Ama.
Do you wanna talk with her?
Not yet.
What are you looking at?
Rickshaw girl.
I need to go now.
Your rickshaw looks good.
I know.
Stop, stop, pull aside.
Don't you know this is a VIP road?
How dare you come on this road?
Fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine, fine.
Sorry.
- Go, go, go.
You are taking too much time.
Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry.
- Let me punish you.
My sorry, my sorry, my sorry.
So you will remember.
Sorry.
Riding rickshaw on the VIP road.
Hey you, this way, this way.
Sister, he will not steal again.
Forgive him.
[overlapping dialogue in another language]
How much to change the tubes?
300.
Now go, I don't have time for this.
300.
Anything cheaper?
No, Chinese 300, local 200.
If I pay you 300, what will I eat?
There's no bargaining here.
If you're hungry, come have food here.
Jamilla? Did you store the water?
There will be no running water tomorrow.
Okay, give me the local one.
Okay.
Hi Naim.
You didn't sleep?
You wanna take a drug?
No, I don't smoke.
Be a man.
[Naima coughing]
[Balbul laughing]
You smoke like a girl.
Look at your hand,
smooth like my girlfriend.
[Bulbul talks in Bengali]
How much you earned today?
1200.
How much?
1200.
Acha...
How do you earn so much money
with this soft body of yours?
Stop smoking so much
ganja, maybe you'll earn too.
Hold on, oi!
Tomorrow I will take
you to your hero's place.
Siam Ahmed, Siam Ahmed.
[Balbul laughing]
Does Siam live here?
Huh?
Siam Ahmed?
Yes, yes he does, just wait.
Hey you, come with me.
Me?
Yeah, we need an extra for today.
Aye, take my rickshaw.
No, no, this rickshaw is nicer.
Let's go, let's go.
Got it, I'm coming.
Hey, remember to give me my cut!
- Yes. Okay, okay.
Come, come, come.
You stay here, okay?
[indistinct chatters]
Yeah, it's okay.
Siam, come.
Siam, everything okay?
Show me, what you want to do?
[Siam practicing the song]
See, don't look at the camera, please.
Okay, guys ready? On standby.
Riti, come with me.
[upbeat music]
Got it, excellent.
Well done, Siam. [crowd cheering]
Riti?
Yes, sir?
Turn off the camera.
[indistinct chatter]
Nice rickshaw.
I painted it.
Sorry?
I painted it.
Oh, really?
What's your name?
Naim.
[Siam calls somebody]
Take it.
Good job, bro.
Keep it.
Hey, Toya. He painted this rickshaw.
Yeah. It's so nice.
Beautiful.
[exciting music]
Bulbul, I just met Siam Ahmed inside.
Really, look.
He gave me money.
Then give me my cut.
What cut?
I gave you chance to meet Siam Ahmed.
No you didn't, they chose me!
Huh?
Hey, wait, wait. Wait, give me my cut.
Give me.
Give, give, give, give me.
You ungrateful piece of shit, give me.
Bulbul!
Give me my cut!
It's my money!
Give me, give me my share!
Give me!
Bulbul it's my money!
Balbul!
[Badul speaks in another language]
[Naima yells angrily]
Hey! Hey!
What are you doing?
Stop!
He stole my money!
What?
Is it true?
What? No.
This piece of shit is a liar.
Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey!
Leave him! Leave him!
Bulbul, give me my money back!
Why?
This bitch fooled all of us.
She's a girl.
Hey?
If you are not a girl,
then take off your pants?
Go! Then go!
You are a boy?
Then let me touch.
Let me touch!
Where is the harm?
Don't touch me. Where is the harm?
Something to hide, huh?
Something to hide!
Something to hide, you bitch!
If you come close to
me, I'll chop your head off!
Stop! Stop!
I don't care who you are,
I don't need any problem!
Just get out of my garage!
Drop the chopper!
Bulbul, give me my money back.
Bulbul, give the money back.
Give the money back now!
Shoo!
Hey, you?
How many times do I have to kick you out?
Not even crying allowed here.
Leave me alone.
What is it?
Are you sad?
The city looks so beautiful from up here.
And up close?
So ugly.
[guard chuckles]
Not for those that found their purpose.
Then, even the ugly is beautiful,
Isn't it?
Now go, before I call the manager.
[melancholic music]
[sound of traffic]
[music continues]
[people playing and talking in Bengali]
Yes!
The garage is closed. No work now.
I think I've seen you somewhere.
Do you want something?
You told me to come here if I was hungry.
I'm hungry.
Will you go back to your home now?
Huh?
Oh, rickshaw painting?
We had a few foreign buyers,
but the quality of
rickshaw painting is so bad,
no one wants to pay for it.
What's your plan now?
Can I stay here tonight?
I'll leave early tomorrow.
Stay tonight only, huh?
Be what you are.
There is no pride in being a man.
[dog barking from afar]
[hopeful music]
Beautiful.
Did you paint this?
Yes.
Can you paint more like this?
What if I can?
You don't have to worry
about your father's treatment.
One week left.
We are warning neighbors
of the slum, leave your homes.
Please, leave your homes.
So, you have all my orders?
Yes, it's all here.
You can check it, sir.
Thank you so much.
Here, I have your payment.
5K, right?
Yes, 5,000.
Here you go.
Naima?
Naima, come here.
This is your money.
Here, take it.
Sir?
Yes? She's the painter.
She did all the paintings.
Oh, really?
You have done an amazing job, actually.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
So I can order more, right?
Of course you can order.
Yeah, I think they're gonna like it.
Of course.
Thank you.
Barek!
Wait, I'm coming!
Barek, how are you?
Where have you been?
I didn't find you anywhere.
I'm right here.
Listen, take this money, give this to Ama.
Tell her to take Aba
to the hospital, okay?
Your father died.
And I don't have to
ride rickshaws anymore.
Naima, your father died yesterday!
What?
Salim is no more.
Naima?
Naima?
She needs you.
Your mother needs you.
Let's go home, Naima.
Let's go home.
[woodwind music]
Naima! Naima! Naima! Naima!
Naima, what happened?
Why are you running like this?
Hey, Naima!
[Naima crying]
When my passengers see your painting,
they say, how beautiful.
I feel proud of that.
Don't give up painting.
[emotional music]
[music intensifies]
Aba.
Salaam, peace.
- Excuse me is the artist around?
- Yeah, there she is.
[emotional music]
[music]