Otrai Panai Maram [Lone Palm Tree], a film that talks about the life of Sri Lankan war widows, is gearing up for release in March. Having been screened at various film festivals, the movie has won international acclaim.
Directed by Puthiyavan Rasiah who had earlier directed the 2005 film Mann, the movie has won close to 12 awards at various film festivals. It is gearing up for theatrical release in the state. “We plan to release the trailer by the first week of February and the movie by March,” said the official spokesperson for the movie, “Any further delay would harm the prospects of the movie as the following months would see the release of several big films.”
According to its director, Otrai Panai Maram stands out from the other movies that have dealt with the issue of Sri Lankan war as it has stemmed from his experiences. “I have seen the war from close quarters in the early stages. After it ended, I came back from the UK to work with refugees and rehabilitate them. I saw the struggles these women go through after rehabilitation. The film is based on a collation of my experiences,” he said in a CE report.
The awards won by the movie at various festivals include those for acting, cinematography and music. Music has been composed by Ashwamithra who has only used traditional Tamil instruments in his score. Cinematography has been handled by the Sri Lankan cameraman Mahinda Abeysinghe. The film’s cast includes Navayuga, Ajathika Puthiyavan, Perumal Kasi, Manickam Jegan and Thanuvan. Director Puthiyavan has also essayed a character in the film.
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Producer Thanigaivel, while speaking about the movie, said: “The film begins during the final days of the Sri Lankan war and tells a story which even the real fighters and people who have witnessed the war firsthand fear to talk about. Realistic acting, natural cinematography, and scenes with twists and turns that weigh on your heartstrings will take the viewers to the middle of a village in Killinochi in Eezham where the film is set.”
“Watching Otrai Panai Maram will definitely be a new experience to the viewers. The people will understand the happiness I felt producing this film when they watch it themselves,” he added.
Image courtesy: Cinema Express