A Landmark In Sri Lankan Cinema: The Poignant Portrayal Of Girlhood In 'The Girls'

First seen in bfi.org.uk:

In the realm of Sri Lankan cinema, a landmark film emerged, capturing the essence of girlhood with unflinching candor. "The Girls," directed by Sumitra Peries, stirred a profound resonance among critics and audiences alike. Upon its London debut, David Robinson of The Times lauded the film for its "holistic feminine sensibility," a testament to the director's nuanced approach.

As a pioneering filmmaker, Sumitra Peries ventured into the world of direction after a decade of editing for other directors. Her collaboration with her husband, Lester James Peries, yielded a film that broke new ground in Sri Lankan and South Asian cinema. "The Girls" scrabble around in the uncharted territory of female experiences, offering a poignant portrayal of the agony and torment of being a woman in South Asia. The film's narrative revolves around Kusum, a young protagonist navigating the complexities of class and gender.

Through Kusum's journey, the film masterfully weaves together themes of empathy, sensitivity, and resilience. A striking scene unfolds as Kusum engages in a debate with a radicalized student, casually remarking, "Unlike you boys, we cannot spend late hours in the classroom.

When it first appeared in London, The Girls moved and mesmerised critics. David Robinson of The Times, for instance, praised it for what he ...

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