Back in November 2025 when we went home to Sri Lanka for a few weeks, we had the pleasure of seeing a restored version of Gehenu Lamai (The Girls), Sumitra Peries’ acclaimed 1978 film, in the cinema. The film had been restored by Film Heritage Foundation recently. A few days ago I was delighted to discover that QFT will be screening this version in Belfast later this month.
Gehenu Lamai is a shining gem from a forgotten age. Given the dire state of contemporary Sri Lankan cinema, the recent 4K restoration is certainly a breath of fresh air. It pains me to think that we’ve regressed as a society since those days (and I’m not just speculating here, my super-smart friend Rajni concurred, so it must be true), and not just because we no longer make films like this.
You can brand the film an innocent coming of age tale, yet it deals with some heavy themes with such tenderness and compassion. Peries observes her characters from a respectful distance without judging them.
I had hoped for a wider release back in November. It’s a shame the film had played to mostly empty theatres given the early morning showtimes. A physical release is perhaps too much to ask, but Bambaru Awith got one (which I had to order from France, of all places), so we live in hope.
For those not in Belfast, the film will soon be available to stream on BFI Player very soon. If you happen to be in Belfast between 25-29 July, do join us.
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