The indie film “My Angels” is a production by a group of talented Sri Lankans based in England, known as the Hela Parapura.
This low-budget film is helmed by the esteemed Sri Lankan actor Gamini Abeysinghe, who brings his experience to the director’s chair. Despite limited resources, the film makers have created a compelling narrative using minimal cinema technology.
By keeping the production simple and straightforward, the film appeals to audiences who may not possess technical knowledge about cinema.
It acknowledges that a vast majority of moviegoers about ninety per cent do not concern themselves with technical details such as camera angles, the type of camera used, or the intricacies of film editing.
Instead, they seek a captivating story presented in a way that resonates with them. “My Angels” caters to this majority, focusing on the art of storytelling rather than technical prowess, making it accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
With amateur actors and actresses
A dedicated group of amateur actors and actresses in England has passionately worked alongside renowned director Gamini Abeysinghe for many years.
Their journey started with enthusiastic participation in his stage plays, and their collaboration has now extended to the film “My Angels.”
Their primary goal has been to introduce the essence of Sinhala theatre to the Sri Lankan expatriate community in England. They have achieved significant success by skilfully re-enacting two of the most iconic works of Sinhala theatre, namely “Kelani Palama” and “Bodinkarayo,” on English stages.
These remarkable productions served as a platform to showcase their immense talent and played a vital role in preserving and promoting Sri Lankan cultural heritage on foreign soil.
This dedicated group’s ongoing partnership with Gamini on the film “My Angels” is a testament to their unwavering commitment to advancing Sinhala arts and storytelling in the adopted homeland of England.
Veteran Gamini Abeysinghe
Gamini Abeysinghe, the director of the film My Angels, is a highly esteemed actor known for his remarkable contributions to Sinhala cinema in the 1970s.
During this era, he shared the screen with some of the most revered personalities in the Sri Lankan film industry, including Gamini Fonseka and Vijaya Kumaratunga, who were considered the leading actors in Sri Lanka at the time.
Gamini also collaborated with the renowned and award-winning actress Malini Fonseka, highlighting his exceptional versatility and talent.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gamini took on significant roles in numerous Sinhala films that not only captivated audiences but also achieved remarkable success at the box office in Sri Lanka.
His performances played a pivotal role in the widespread popularity and commercial triumph of these films, firmly establishing him as a highly skilled and influential actor.
His extensive experience and remarkable achievements within the film industry have equipped him with the expertise and creative vision necessary to take on the role of director for “My Angels,” bringing with him a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a deep appreciation for the art of film making to this new project.
Hela parapura
After immigrating to England, Gamini Abeysinghe left a void for Sinhala cinema fans who greatly miss his brilliant acting.
During his time in Sri Lanka, Gamini’s talent and screen presence made him a beloved figure in the industry.
If he had stayed in Sri Lanka, it is likely that he would have contributed to a large number of films, further cementing his legacy in Sinhala cinema.
Even after migrating to England, gamini’s passion for Sinhala cinema did not wane. He has returned to Sri Lanka on several occasions, contributing his acting prowess to several films, thus continuing to leave an indelible mark on the industry.
In England, he remained an active advocate for Sinhala arts and culture. He brought together a group of fellow art enthusiasts to form an organisation called Hela Parapura. Through this organisation, he made a persistent effort to stage Sinhala dramas in England, helping to keep the cultural heritage alive among the Sri Lankan diaspora.
Addicted to cinema
Gamini’s most recent project, the film “My Angels,” is a testament to his unwavering dedication to Sinhala cinema.
This endeavour not only represents a movie but also symbolises his commitment to nurturing and promoting Sri Lankan arts and culture, even from a distant place.
By involving a group of amateur actors and actresses who have long worked with him, he continues to inspire and lead the Hela parapura community in England, fostering a strong sense of cultural pride and community.
A low budget indie film
The movie “My Angels” may not be a big-budget film that can compete with Hollywood or Bollywood productions. However, it makes a significant contribution to Sinhala cinema.
Despite lacking the grandeur and resources of larger film industries, its strength lies in its cultural authenticity and the dedication of those involved.
The film highlights the passion and commitment of the Hela Parapura in England to preserve and promote Sinhala storytelling. It demonstrates that the spirit of Sinhala cinema transcends geographical boundaries and financial constraints.
