Pura Sakmana Film

"Pura Sakmana" (Bitter Harvest) is a poignant Sinhala film from Sri Lanka, released in 2003, directed by the talented Tikiri Ratnayake and produced by Sama Rathnayake. The film stars Anoja Weerasinghe and Kanchana Mendis in the lead roles, with strong supporting performances from Hemasiri Liyanage and Cletus Mendis. Navaratne Gamage, the composer, lends his musical expertise to the film, creating a captivating and emotionally resonant score. Notably, "Pura Sakmana" holds a unique place in Sinhala cinema as the 1001st Sri Lankan film, symbolizing the rich heritage of the country's cinematic storytelling. The film's narrative revolves around the characters of Gunawathi, portrayed by the talented Anoja Weerasinghe, and Yasa, played by Kanchana Mendis. In a compelling story of struggle and resilience, mother and daughter find themselves at the mercy of the local village Mafia boss, Andiris, masterfully portrayed by Hemasiri Liyanage. Cletus Mendis adds depth to the story with his role as Wilmon, creating a compelling ensemble cast. "Pura Sakmana" was not limited to Sri Lanka; it gained international recognition and was showcased at prestigious film festivals. It made an appearance at the 26th Cairo International Film Festival and also left its mark at the Asian Film Festival in Mumbai. These international platforms allowed the film to reach a wider audience and receive appreciation for its storytelling and performances. Behind the scenes, Tickiri Ratnayake is credited with both the screenplay and the story, showcasing his creative prowess in crafting this compelling narrative. Cinematographer Lal Wickramarachchi's work shines through in capturing the essence of the story with visually striking scenes. Elmo Halliday's editing ensures a seamless and engaging flow of the narrative. K.A. Milton Perera's art direction adds authenticity to the film's setting, immersing the audience in the world of "Pura Sakmana." The makeup department, led by J. Suranimala, contributed to the authenticity of the characters' appearances, while Newton Gunasekara served as an assistant director, assisting in the film's direction. The sound department, headed by Lionel Gunaratan, ensured that the film's audio elements matched the visual brilliance. In conclusion, "Pura Sakmana" is a remarkable film that captures the essence of human resilience and the struggle for survival. Directed by Tikiri Ratnayake and produced by Sama Rathnayake, it features a stellar cast, including Anoja Weerasinghe, Kanchana Mendis, Hemasiri Liyanage, and Cletus Mendis. The film's international recognition at the Cairo International Film Festival and the Asian Film Festival in Mumbai is a testament to its universal appeal. With its evocative storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and powerful performances, "Pura Sakmana" continues to be a significant and celebrated part of Sri Lankan cinema, showcasing the depth of talent in the industry.