Film analysis ( Sinhala / Tamil / any genre )

 Siri Parakum

Siri Parakum is a 2013 Sri Lankan Sinhala epi biographical film directed by Somaratne Dissanayake and produced by Renuka Balasooriya. It stars two newcomers Akila Dhanuddhara and Senali Fonseka in lead roles along with Bimal Jayakody and Chandani Seneviratne. Music composed by veteran music director Rohan Weerasinghe. Siri Parakum is the highest grossing Sri Lankan film of all time Which earned 36 SL Crores and successfully passed 150 day at theaters.

Summary

King Vijayabahu 3 of Dambadeniya had a son ,prince Parakramabahu, with is first queen ,who died during childbirth. The king later married a Non Buddhist princess and they had a son named Waththiya. The queen wanted Waththiya to inherit the throne , but Buddhist monks and ministers opposed this.

While the king was with the invader Magha, the queen plotted to kill Prince Parakramabahu . After winning the battle, the king sent a white flag to signal his victory but the queen tricked everyone by replacing it with a black flag, leading many to jump from a cliff in despair. The king's loyal servant, Pathiraja Senevi saved prince Parakramabahu and sent him to Kalundawa, where he was raised in secret as " Appuwa" by a Dhobi family.

As Appuwa grew up he excelled in his studies and crafts, winning the admiration of the village. When king Vijayabahu died. Waththiya became king but was son killed during a religious ceremony. The royal elephant Kandula was then used to find the next king. Kandula recognized and worshiped Appuwa revealing him as the true heir, Prince Parakramabahu. He was crowned as king Parakramabahu 2, with his beloved Sirimal Ethana becoming his queen.

Main Theme

The central theme of Siri Parakum revolves around the reign of king Parakramabahu 2 and his efforts to rebuild and unify Sri Lanka after a period of turmoil and division. The film explores the challenges faced by the king, including foreign invasions, internal conflicts and economic instability. Through his leadership Parakramabahu 2 is depicted as a visionary monarch who restores peace, prosperity and cultural glory to the nation.

Characters

                1. King Vijayabahu   : The protagonist of the film , Vijayabahu 3 is a charismatic and intelligent  ruler who is determined to rebuild Sri Lanka. His unwavering commitment to his people and his nation is central to the film's narrative.

               2.. Minister Meghavanna : A loyal and trusted advisor to the king, Meghavanna is a skilled diplomat and strategist who helps Parakramabahu 2 consolidate his power and defend the kingdom from foreign threats.

                3. Prince Parakramabahu  : The heir to the throne, Parakramabahu is a young and impetuous prince who faces challenges in proving himself worthy of the crown. His character arc explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the pressures of royal life .

Cinematography and Music

Siri Parakum is renowned for its stunning cinematography , which captures the beauty of Sri Lanka's landscapes. The film features breathtaking aerial shots of ancient ruins, lush forests and majestic mountains. The use of color and light creates a visually striking and immersive experience.

The film's music plays a significant role in setting the mood and enhancing the storytelling. The soundtrack features a blend of traditional Sri Lankan music and contemporary orchestral compositions. The music is evocative and emotive, adding depth and richness to the film's narrative.

        Directed by                                            Somaratne  Dissanayake

        Witten by                                               Somaratne Dissanayake

        Based on                                                Early chronicles of Parakramabahu 2

        Produced by                                           Renuka Balasooriya

        Starring                                                  Akila Dhanuddhara

                                                                       Senali Fonseka

                                                                       Bimal Jayakody

        Cinematography                                    Palitha Perera

        Edited by                                                Ajith Ramanayake

        Music by                                                Rohan Weerasinghe

        Production company                              Cine Films

        Release Date                                           30 May 2013

        Country                                                   Sri Lanka

        Language                                                Sinhala

        Box office                                               36 SL Crores

           

    The film has influenced on the urban legends and other historical writing of the childhood and ascending to throne of King Parakramabahu the second who ruled Dambadeniya kingdom. It is the 1244th Sri Lankan film in the Sinhala cinema.