‘Matha’: paradise lost and regained
by Ruwini JAYAWARDANA
Renowned filmmaker Vishwanath
Buddhika Keerthisena (Boodee) recently embarked on his newest project, a
movie focusing on the island’s 30 year conflict. A Muhurath Ceremony
which was graced by some of the leading figures in the country took
shape at the Cinnamon Grand hotel.
Mass Media and Information and Enterprise Development and Investment
Promotion Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa was the chief guest at the
event. The story derives from a true incident. The story is based on the
period when Yal Devi was attacked by the LTTE.
A middle class Tamil family has to bear the consequences of the
enmity that the incident aroused in the public. It explores the steps
taken by individuals in an attempt to survive under the shadows of
terrorism.
While highlighting patriotism, the movie also poses the questions why
every individual cannot live harmoniously in a country which has much to
offer.
Many seasoned campaigners comprise the cast. They include Ravindra
Randeniya, Mahendra Perera, Kamal Addararachchi, Buddhika Jayaratne,
Dharmapriya Dias, Vasantha Vitttachchi, Dharshana Manoharan, Suranga
Ranawaka, Yashodha Ijas Fa and others. Reputed vocalist Gayan Perera
will also make his entrance to movies as an actor in ‘Matha’.
“Many film-makers have made attempts to capture the essence of the
period in their creations but have not quite succeeded. ‘Matha’ is not
merely a movie based on the three decades of terrorism but a journey on
celluloid back to the period when the nation unified against all odds in
a time of need. It projects a picture of patriotism,” a technical crew
member of the project opined on Boodee’s movie.
The script is by Professor Ariyaratne Athugala. Ruwan Jayasinghe will
produce the movie along with Vijaya Ratnayake and Saree Mandir
proprietor Sanath Ranaweera.
Milton Caan who had won laurels at International film festivals
including the Berlin film Festival is the cameraman for the movie.
Duminda Vidanagamarachchi is the assistant director, Joe Fizal is the
editor and Deepthi Weerasuriaya is the production manager.
The line producer is Nilantha Perera while Prasanna Veerakoddy is the
art director. Vasanthi Vittachchi handles the make up department and
Kumara Karavideniya is the costume designer. Ruchira Kahanda does the
hairstyles.
The music is by Lakshman Joseph de Sarem. Nimal Vijesiri Senadheera
is the production executive.
Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation is the media sponsor for ‘Matha’.
Colombo and the actual areas that were affected by terrorism are the
locations where shooting is taking place. The movie is slotted for
release in 2010.
Pix: Tennyson Edirisinghe
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