'Cinema binds diverse cultures of countries'

Ruwini JAYAWARDANA

"Cinema undoubtedly reflects cultural identity and binds countries of cultural diversity. It is like a window into a new and better understanding of everyday life. Movies are mirrors of society and propagating the right rational ideas of society of a certain era," Mass Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said.

Mass Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella with the directors, jury members and key players of the event. Picture by Ruwan de Silva

The Minister was speaking at the SAARC Film Festival inauguration. Rambukwella stated that the event opens a common platform to share viewpoints and exchange ideas. He noted that though the three decade terrorism and political backdrop of the country had an impact on local cinema, the industry had begun to thrive with several filmmakers making globally acclaimed productions.

"Cinema is not merely an art form. It is a mode of communication which can change the society and strengthen values. Various modes of telecommunication had revolutionized the era. It had made a great influence on the widescreen. Cinema has stiff competition with alternative entertainment media," Minister Rambukwella noted.

Seven directors from Bhutan, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will showcase their films at the festival which is being held at the National Film Corporation cinema hall from May 11 to 15. Two of the best films from each country screened last year will be featured at the event. A jury comprises filmmakers Otalo Spinelli from Italy, Alexander Volkov from Russia and Philip Cheah from Singapore will select the best feature film screened in South Asia in 2010. A workshop for filmmakers and cinema artistes will also be held today at 9.30 am.

"The SAARC film Festival provides a good opportunity for South Asian film directors to expose their capabilities to the world. This will motivate in all SAARC countries to produce good films," SAARC Cultural Centre Director G L W Samarasinghe said.

The SAARC Film Festival is organized by the SAARC Cultural Centre, Sri Lanka and entrance is free.