Sri Lankan filmmaker begins new project amidst pandemic backdrop
A new cinematic journey begins
Sri Lankan auteur Vimukthi Jayasundara, renowned for his Camera d’Or-winning film “The Forsaken Land” (2005), has embarked on a new cinematic venture titled “Turtle’s Gaze on Spying Stars”. The film has commenced principal photography in the picturesque hills of central Sri Lanka.
A collaboration of creative minds
One of the key producers of this project is India’s Nila Madhab Panda, who previously collaborated with Jayasundara on Nidhi Saxena’s “Sad Letters of an Imaginary Woman”, currently premiering at the Busan International Film Festival. Panda’s involvement brings a unique blend of expertise and vision to the project, promising a compelling narrative.
A dystopian future explored
“Turtle’s Gaze on Spying Stars” is set in a dystopian future where humanity’s over-reliance on technology has led to a devastating pandemic. The story follows a Sri Lankan refugee who returns to his homeland, only to be confined in a valley resort repurposed as an isolation facility. Contrary to the facility’s intent to instill fear, the protagonist’s experiences evoke love and compassion as he interacts with strangers, reflecting a poignant commentary on human resilience and connection.
A global production effort
The film is a collaborative effort, produced by Panda, Vincent Wang, and Fred Bellaiche’s Paris-based House on Fire. Other notable contributors include Sri Lanka’s Film Council Productions and France’s Le Studio Orlando. The project has garnered support from several international bodies, including Rotterdam’s Hubert Bals Fund + Europe, France’s CNC – Aide aux Cinemas du Monde fund, and Taiwan Creative Content Agency’s (TAICCA) Taiwan International Co-funding Program.
Jayasundara’s cinematic legacy
Since his acclaimed debut, Jayasundara has continued to make waves in the film industry with works like “Between Two Worlds” (2009), “Mushrooms” (2011), “Dark in the White Light” (2015), and the anthology film “Her. Him. The Other” (2018). His films have been showcased at numerous A-list festivals, cementing his reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
Panda’s perspective on the project
Panda, known for his films addressing climate change, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: ”The future is right here. It’s magical to be on the film set of Vimukthi and witness his poetic storytelling manifesting itself. I was drawn to collaborate on his latest project for its mystical themes of humans versus nature, themes that resonate deeply with me. This is the kind of cinema I want to be a part of and for the world to see.”
Thematic depth and technical prowess
“Turtle’s Gaze on Spying Stars” promises to be a visually and emotionally rich film, exploring themes of isolation, memory, and human connection. The technical aspects of the film, from its cinematography to its sound design, are expected to enhance its narrative depth, making it a must-watch for cinephiles.
A film to watch out for
As the film progresses through its production stages, it is poised to capture the attention of international audiences and critics alike. Jayasundara’s unique storytelling, combined with Panda’s production expertise, sets the stage for a film that not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection.
Did you enjoy this article? Share it on your social channels and let us know your thoughts! Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Follow us on social media to stay informed about the newest releases.