Sumithra in the making of another cinematic gem

By Susitha R. Fernando

Veteran filmmaker, Ms. Sumitha Peries an expert in recruiting children is once again on the search for a child actor for her latest film based on an interesting and appealing tale of different ethnic groups.

Veteran filmmaker, Ms. Sumitha Peries

A leading filmmaker and pioneer director, Ms. Peries is making visits to school in search of a boy between the age of 5 and 6 who could speak both Sinhala and English. Sumithra's excellent selection of first timers is unprecedented. Starting from Vasanthi Chathurani in her very first 'Gehenu Lamai', she had introduced many a new comers- children and young actors in 'Yahalu Yeheli' (Friends) in 1982, Maya (The Illusion) in 1984, 'Sagara Jalaya Madi Hanuva Oba Sanda' (Letter Written in Sand) in 1988 and her Dinidu Jagoda in her last film 'Sakman Maluwa' (The Garden). She is still to make her final decision, so here is an opportunity for those interested little one to be an actor. Busy with the preproduction and reshaping of the script, Ms. Peries was interviewed by the TV Times.

TVT: Why is it so difficult to find a single child actor?

Ms. Peries: It is a very difficult decision to make for the whole film depends on this character. It is through his eyes all the characters in the film are portrayed. If it was just another supporting actor I would have made my selection by now. The schools I have visited so far have been very supportive in my endeavour. Yet I have not found the little one who is both appealing and capable of acting effectively.

TVT: What kind of response did you receive from the children?

Ms. Peries: I was taken in by the keenness of the younger generation. Compared to the past they were aware what they were going to do. These children were aware of what is required for they are all really visually literate. I felt that they were more confident. In a way we should be thankful to the TV, DVD and the advancement and availability of electronic media.

TVT: What made you select this particular story?

Ms. Peries: The story written by Ms. Faheema Sahabdeen living abroad with her family is about ethnicity and its response to environment. Ms. Sahabdeen is a writer and I got one of her short film scripts sometime ago. The very first time I saw it I felt the theme was very fresh and it appealed to me. It came to my mind when Dr. Namal Senasinghe a medical practitioner abroad informed me about his interest in producing a film. I showed him the script and he liked it. I'm in the process of reshaping the script with discussion. At the moment there is a lot of e-mailing done with Faheema.

A scene from ‘Ganga Addara’

TVT: What is the universal message?

Ms. Peries: I don't want to be a preacher but this story brings out the theme that everybody has a right to be who they are. There is a burgher music teacher, Muslim Aaya, Tamil gardener all the ethnic groups in a kaleidoscope of Sri Lanka. I am going to make a statement on it. A child will bring the message.

TVT: Will it appeal to the audience? Why?

Ms. Peries: It will be challenging and it will be a new experience as it goes beyond accepted borders of commercialism. The story is very subtle. At a time where there is so much corruption in the visual image we can strive for some kind of objective theme in the Sri Lankan cinema. Children will se how the child interacts with others and adults will see Sri Lanka through a child's eye. I am trying to generate gentleness despite the volatile atmosphere we are in. The story will bring the essence of Sri Lanka a people filled with love, respect and Maithri It is a film filled with gentleness without a sledge hammer.

TVT: What kind of cast you are planning to select?

Ms. Peries: I hope to use natives who belonged to the different ethnic groups for I am interested in making it authentic as possible. And I am planning to offer bilingual role to Sri Lankan born Indian Puja while the young lawyer Sujeewa Senasinghe will play another role. From the well-known Sri Lankan cast, Kamal Addararacchi will play a lead role.

TVT: What is your reaction as a female director in act a pioneer in the field? Any comment.

Mrs. Peries: At the time when I entered the world of films it was alien to many. People were not keen on sending their daughters to this uncharted world of filmmaking, acting and directing. Having studied filmmaking in London School of Filmmaking and Conservetoire Independante Du Cinema Francaise in Paris I was determined to put my knowledge in to practice.

There are limitation that are existing both physically and socially when a female tries her hand at filmmaking. I am happy that I was able to overcome these and I am glad that there are many fifth generation of filmmakers who are now exploring many innovative avenues producing and directing films where there were social taboos before.

TVT: What is your connection with Lester and his filmmaking?

Ms. Peries: I have edited many of his films. But I must say that I am a filmmaker in my own right as my interest on film was before I met my husband.

As we were in the same field it is not secret that I give full support to Lester when he needs it.

TVT: Any wish for the future?

Ms. Peries: I would like to continue with what I am doing if God's wills it so.