Box-office record ‘Nommara 17’ back as ‘Scope Classics’ unveils
View(s):By Susitha R. Fernando
One of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated box office triumphs, ‘Nommara 17’ (Number 17), returns to the big screen from March 27 to 29, offering audiences a rare opportunity to relive the magic of a golden era in local cinema.
Originally released on July 21, 1989, the film went on to enjoy a remarkable theatrical run of over 200 days, drawing packed houses across the island at a time when cinema-going was a cherished social ritual. Directed by Hemasiri Sellapperuma and produced by Preethiraj Weeraratne, ‘Nommara 17’ became a defining success story of its time.
Hemasiri Sellapperuma
A major factor behind the film’s enduring appeal was the presence of Vijaya Kumaratunga, whose charismatic performance remains etched in the memories of fans. The film is particularly poignant as it stands among the final screen appearances of the beloved actor before his untimely death in February 1988, adding an emotional resonance that continues to draw audiences decades later.
The film also brought together a stellar ensemble cast that reflected the star power of late 1980s Sinhala cinema. Among them were Sanath Gunathilake, Jeevan Kumaratunga, Sabeetha Perera, Menik Kurukulasuriya, Freddie Silva, Mervyn Jayathunga and Wilson Karunaratne, each contributing to the film’s vibrant storytelling and mass appeal.
Bringing the nostalgia alive under its newly launched ‘Scope Classics’ banner, Scope Cinemas will screen ‘Nommara 17’ as its inaugural golden era release, with daily 7.00 pm shows scheduled at Colombo City Centre from March 27 to 29.
‘With the re-release of ‘Nommara 17’, we want to remind both the older generation and the younger generation that Sri Lanka once enjoyed a true golden era of cinema’ said Jayarathna Galagedara, Manager Marketing and Productions at Scope Cinemas. ‘Back then, going to the movies was not merely a pastime, it was a culture’ he added, reflecting on an era when cinema halls were vibrant social spaces and film stars commanded near-mythical adoration.
Encouraged by the renewed interest in classics, Scope Cinemas plans to expand the ‘Scope Classics’ line-up with a selection of beloved Sinhala films that once dominated the box office. Among those earmarked for future re-releases are ‘Weli Kathara’, ‘Thushara’, ‘Anjana’, ‘Obatai Priye Adare’, ‘Wasana’, ‘Mamai Raja’ and ‘Randenigala Sinhaya’, titles that defined an era and continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
Searching for that next furry family member but couldn’t find one in your area? Hitad.lk has the solution with our extensive listings of dogs for sale in Sri Lanka!