Maariya (The Angel Of The Ocean)
Feature Film/ Srilanka /101 min/2022
Director – Screenwriter: Aruna Jayawardana
Producer: EE Indrajith Silva
Music composer: Chinthaka Jayyakody
Synopsis:
Willie, Bennet, Anthony, Osca, Daiya and Tenny are members of a group of fishermen engaged in their vocation in the mid seas. They suddenly bump into a guy called Malan who had stealthily hidden in their fishing trawler with the sole intention of illegally
migrating to Australia in a boat. He had covertly crept into this boat to gauge the pros and cons of such a risky voyage.
Director’s biography:
Aruna Jayawardana graduated with a Bachelor’s (BA) Degree from the University of Kelaniya (Sri Lanka). He is a Diploma Holder from the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka. He also holds a Diploma in Television and Film Production from the National Youth Services Council, Sri Lanka. He carries under his belt, a 20-year experience as a Television Producer and Programmes Manager, serving in two leading Sri Lankan television channels – Sirasa TV (14 years) and Hiru TV (6 years).
His cinema journey began in 2009 when he co-directed the movie “Dancing Star”. In 2011 he directed his maiden feature film “Nikini Wessa” (August Drizzle) which earned him many local and international accolades. It represented several international film festivals including the Busan Film Festival, Mumbai International Film Festival, Kerala International Film Festival, Dubai International Film Festival and several others. It was adjudged the best film at the Vesoul International Film Festival in France and also clinched the Netpac Jury award. The movie won awards for the best director and best screenplay in Sri Lanka. Aruna Jayawardana has made two other movies titled “1970 Love Story” and “Happy Birthday”. “Maria” is his newest movie creation.