SEILAMA

When a truck driver (Sira) from the city begins to help a village farmer (Banda) to start up a grocery shop, the wheels of change are set in motion. The events that follow will lead the farmer to suicide. Subsequently his helpless wife (Siriya) agrees to marry the truck driver and move to the city. Unfortunately for her this is not the end of her woes.

SEILAMA (The City) is directed by H. D. Premaratne, written by Simon Navagaththegama and stars Ravindra Randeniya (Sira), Anoja Weerasingha (Siriya), Cyril Wickremage (Banda). The supporting cast includes Daya Tennekoon, W. Jayasiri, Menike Aththanayake and Dilani Abeywardena.

This story represents the fundamental differences of city and village life. The story is also a depiction of the two-faced nature of capitalism and what a necessary evil it is to any society. Although the financial benevolence of Sira is regarded by Banda as a blessing, it is the catalyst to his ultimate ruin. The plot masterfully examines the influence the city folk have on the untainted village family. Vices are forcibly introduced into the family. Banda is seduced by the affects of alcohol, a drink he did not partake of prior to meeting Sira. Banda's wife Siriya is raped by one of Sira's helpers and even their son is captivated by the sounds of radio. These subtle social and behavioral changes are presented fascinatingly. Most Sri Lankan film plots begin to fizzle by the second act, but this not the case with SEILAMA. The plot is mature and complicated. It kept me interested and gripped until the end. The script compliments the story with its use of straightforward dialogue.

Although the cinematography isn't spectacular, the appropriate use of close-ups made the characters more intimate. Certain shots stood out more than others, but all in all the atmosphere of the village and city is captured well.

The acting is natural and full of nuance. Veteran actors Ravindra Randeniya, Cyril Wickremage and Daya Tennekoon are impressive in their respective roles. But the stand-out performance is Anoja Weerasingha's portrayal of the innocent and tormented Siriya. It's 'method acting' at its best. 

H. D. Premaratne's direction is competent but what makes this a unique film is its story. Simon Navagaththegama's script is fresh and the entire story is paced well. The collaboration of the writer and director has produced an interesting film definitely worth watching. 

Rating: 4/5

S. V. Fernando