Another master stroke by Pathiraja
View(s):Pioneer filmmaker Dr. Dharmasena Pathiraja’s latest film ‘Sakkarang’ (A drizzle during a time of drought) recently screened at the Asia Cinema Competition of the 7th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES). The film explained as the tortuous transformation from feudalism to modernity, was one of the 166 films from 48 countries that were presented. According to the festival organizers a collection of films that have won awards at major international festivals such as Berlin Cannes, Moscow, Venice and Toronto will be screened this year.
This year’s main highlight was the presentation of highly-acclaimed Asian films from India Iran, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Ten films, Aditya Vikram Sengupta directed by Asha Jaoar Majhe (Labour of Love), Dreamz -The Movie directed by Sumana Mukherjee and Swapaanam (The Voiding Soul) and directed by Shaji N. Karun, Oukhtar directed by Afla Nathaniel, Ba Digaran (With Others) directed by Nasser Zarniri, Akash Koto Dure (The Distant Sky) directed by Samia Zaman, Prakruti directed by Panchaksharl, Aithihannu mattu Kanaja (Fig Fruit And The Wasps) directed by MS Prakash Babu, The River of Colours directed by Shahneoyaj Cacolyand competed for the Asian cinema Competition award with ‘Sakkarang’ at BIFFES this year.
The cast includes Bimal Jayakody, Prasadini Atapattu, Gayan Wickramathilake, Chamila Peiris, Cyril Wickramage, W. Jayasiri, Sarath Kothalawala and Pubudu Chathuranga. Produced by HD Premasiri, ‘Sakkarang’ is scripted by Chamminda Welegedera, assistant direction is by Sugatha Amarajeewa Bandara and Madhavi Lewke Bandara.
Donald Karunarathna handled the cinematography while Lal Harindranatha did the art direction and Imal Chanaka the makeup. Edited by Almo Halide, music composition and direction is Nadeeka Guruge. ‘Sakkarang’ will be released in theatres soon.