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Cinematographer Rashed Zaman delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the intricate relationship between architecture and cinema at North South University (NSU), Dhaka, on Thursday.
The talk, organized by the Department of Architecture under the Kathan Lecture Series, examined how space, light and perception intersect in both fields.
Posing the central question, “What is the relationship between architecture and film?”, Zaman explained that architecture shapes the diversity of cinematic spaces and influences how audiences perceive visual narratives.
“Through the interplay of space and light, and the transition from static to movement, films portray the flow of human perception,” he said, drawing strong parallels between filmmaking as image construction and architecture as the transformation of imagination into physical form.
Reflecting on his architectural training, Zaman noted that visual literacy has become increasingly central in contemporary culture. “We now ‘read’ images more than text, making visual storytelling more significant than ever,” he observed.
While highlighting shared principles, he also pointed out differences between the two practices: “In cinematography, visual intention evolves more rapidly than in architecture. Cinematographers face greater compromises due to climate, budget, and adaptability.”
Zaman credited Polish cinematographer Witold Sobociński as a key influence, citing his advice: “Make pictures, don’t make photographs.”
Exploring the philosophical dimensions of his craft, he added, “Space is the most important and motivational element, and time is the change of light.” He connected this to his work in films such as Utsab, where his use of color was widely noted.
The session concluded with the presentation of an NSU crest to Zaman by Shahriar Iqbal Raj, chair of the Department of Architecture.
Reading Comprehension Questions
1. The central theme of Zaman’s lecture can best be described as:
A) The limitations of architectural design in modern filmmaking.
B) The philosophical and practical connections between architecture and cinema.
C) The challenges cinematographers face due to budget and climate constraints.
D) The importance of color theory in visual storytelling.
2. According to the passage, Zaman suggests that films and architecture are similar because both
A) involve compromises dictated by external conditions.
B) transform imagination into constructed forms.
C) depend primarily on technological innovation.
D) prioritize permanence and stability.
3. In line 17, Zaman observes, “We now ‘read’ images more than text.” What does he most likely mean?
A) Audiences today prefer photography over cinema.
B) Visual storytelling has become increasingly dominant in how people understand the world.
C) Literacy rates have declined due to the popularity of film.
D) Architects rely more on drawings than on written descriptions.
4. Which choice provides the best evidence for the answer to question 3?
A) “Through the interplay of space and light … films portray the flow of human perception.”
B) “Visual intention evolves more rapidly than in architecture.”
C) “We now ‘read’ images more than text, making visual storytelling more significant than ever.”
D) “Space is the most important and motivational element, and time is the change of light.”
5. As used in the passage, the word “compromises” (line 23) most nearly means:
A) Settlements in disputes.
B) Concessions due to limitations.
C) Moral weaknesses.
D) Mixtures of different styles.
6. Which of the following best captures the contrast Zaman draws between architecture and cinematography?
A) Architecture is about permanence, while cinematography is about motion.
B) Cinematography requires faster adaptation, while architecture changes more slowly.
C) Architecture depends on space, while cinematography depends on light.
D) Cinematography is a scientific craft, while architecture is an artistic one.
7. Zaman’s reference to Witold Sobociński serves primarily to
A) illustrate the importance of learning from mentors in creative fields.
B) highlight the international nature of cinematography.
C) emphasize the distinction between photography and film.
D) provide evidence of the role of Polish cinema in shaping Bangladeshi film.
8. Which idea is emphasized in Zaman’s reflections on Utsab?
A) The practical difficulties of working with limited budgets.
B) The influence of architecture on his cinematic use of space.
C) His creative application of color in visual storytelling.
D) The philosophical importance of light as a measure of time.
Posted on by Lecture on the Relationship between Architecture and Film at North South University Rashed Zaman explores dialogue between architecture and film at NSU Cinematographer Rashed Zaman delivered an engaging lecture on the relationship between architecture and film at North South University....
