The Hidden City in United Kingdom

By Sujeeva Nivunhella reporting from London

Veteran filmmaker Jayantha Chandrasiri, celebrated for his acclaimed works such as Agnidahaya, Guerrilla Marketing, Samanala Sandawaniya, and iconic television dramas like Veda Hamine and Dandubasna Manaya, has completed shooting his latest feature film, The Hidden City, in the United Kingdom.

Written and directed by Chandrasiri, the film boasts an international cast of English, Polish, and Bulgarian actors, alongside prominent Sri Lankan performers. Speaking with Sunday Island before returning to Sri Lanka, Chandrasiri disclosed that the project was initiated by a close associate in London and financially backed by Nimal Diyunugala, a Sri Lankan businessman based in the United States.

Chandrasiri expressed optimism that The Hidden City would usher Sri Lankan cinema onto the global stage. He commended the professionalism of the British and Indian crew, which he said made the filming process seamless. He also introduced young Sri Lankan actor Yasas Nivunhella, who makes his cinematic debut in the film.

A Collaborative Effort

The director extended heartfelt gratitude to the Sri Lankan community in the UK, singling out individuals such as Chamara Arunoda, Tharaka Peiris, Nalinda Somasiri, and Samanala Rajapakse for their invaluable support. Additionally, Chandrasiri highlighted the return of award-winning actresses Kanchana Mendis, Aruni Rajapakse, and Nisansala Jayatunge, who make a comeback in The Hidden City after a hiatus. SriLankan Airlines also lent its support as the project’s sponsor.

Behind the scenes, Madhuni Alahakoon served as the director of photography, assisted by her husband Kasun Pussawela, who made his debut as an assistant director. Pussawela expressed his admiration for Chandrasiri, citing this project as a milestone in his career. “Working with a filmmaker of Chandrasiri’s caliber, filming in England, collaborating with a diverse cast, and sharing this experience with my wife as a professional partnership are moments I will always cherish,” he said.

Crafting Period Costumes

Achala Walpola, the art director and costume designer, also marked his debut with The Hidden City. He described the challenges of designing costumes for characters spanning different historical periods, emphasizing the extensive research involved in capturing the essence of each era.

International Recognition

The film’s international cast praised Chandrasiri’s directorial style. Polish actress Aleksandra Jakubowaka described the experience as “unforgettable,” lauding the inspiring teamwork on set. Bulgarian actor Mart Lachev appreciated the creative freedom to improvise, calling it “a dream come true for any actor.” British actors Mark Collier and Iain Collins echoed these sentiments, with Collins reflecting on the privilege of playing the role of Miliyakov.

Star-Studded Cast

The Sri Lankan cast features a host of celebrated names, including Hemal Ranasinghe, Uma Aseni, Yasas Nivunhella, Thumindu Dodantenna, Gamini Abeysinghe, Kanchana Mendis, Nisansala Jayatunge, Wimal Alahakoon, Aruni Rajapakse, Achala Walpola, Buminda Karunatilleke, Chandika Kuruppu, Lionel Bandra, and Anuja Sri Lal.

The Sri Lankan production team included Chandana Jayasinghe as director of photography, Chamara Selara as assistant director, Nilahan Seneviratne as dress designer, Jaanaka Prasad as art director, and Gayan Deshapriya as production manager. Rusiru Pannilage supervised VFX, with Rasitha Jinasena serving as line producer.

A Path to the Future

With The Hidden City, Jayantha Chandrasiri not only tells a compelling story but also paves the way for Sri Lankan cinema to shine on the international stage. As the film moves into post-production, anticipation builds for its release, promising to be a landmark achievement in Sri Lankan filmmaking.