Nandana Hewapanna

Director / Writer / Producer 

Your project has entered our festival. What is your project about?
As Chathu and Asanka did not have children after their marriage, they decided to adopt a child from an orphanage, following the suggestion of one of Chatu's dear friends, Auntie. The child's name is Akera. However, the parents who had adopted the child for several years eventually handed him over to their dear aunt and went abroad. The aunt adopted the girl as her own child. Akera has grown up to become a talented dance teacher in school and has also been a reality star on the school's show.

Ratne, who worked at her aunt's house,was disappointed. This was because he wasn't paid a proper salary and couldn't earn enough money to send his children to school. On the day when Akera celebrated her birthday in a grand manner, Ratne's friend Ruwan made a secret proposal. However, Ratne loved the child so much that there was no doubt about it. Because of this, Ratne decided to kidnap the girl and demand a ransom. Meanwhile, the child won first place in a reality show and received a cash gift of one crore. Taking advantage of this, Ratne kidnapped the girl and demanded a ransom. Thankfully, due to the intervention of journalists and the police, little Akera was saved from Ratne's grasp.

Akera's father is a talented film director. His ultimate goal was for all humanity to be seen as one race, transcending religions, castes, and countries. He believed in the unity of all people as part of the human race. Akera's father wished that everyone would refrain from creating divisions based on caste, religion, or nationality, emphasizing that everyone shares the same blood. This was also Akera's heartfelt wish.

Later, she marries a young man and they go on their honeymoon. The hotel owner, Henry, suffers from a perverted mental illness. When such married couples arrive, they appreciate his mindset. Henry endeavors to prey on the honeymooning bride, and when her husband comes to enjoy the honeymoon, Henry and his henchmen work to drug him into sleep. Akera, who arrives late to see her husband, falls into Henry's grasp, but manages to escape and return to her room. However, the persistent Henry enters the room and tries to fulfill his desires , but is unsuccessful, The husband who had faith in his wife, sets aside the incident. The two of them understood the situation without harboring any mistrust and left to return home.

But during the investigation, the police discover that Henry, who is the mastermind behind everything, plans to seek revenge by letting these two go. Police officer Jayanka is leading all the investigations related to the incident, apprehending the suspects, and bringing them before the law.
What are your ambitions with your project?
One of my ambitions was to achieve a world record, and I did it. I hold the record for the fastest film production script to screen, and the film showcasing this achievement has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records. It showcases the most cost-effective production ever achieved on a global scale, and the film was completed by an exceptional team. Alongside this accomplishment, I received special recognition at the Canada International Film Royal Reel Award. Furthermore, the movie has been selected as a finalist in the Prague International Film Festival. I am eagerly looking forward to more opportunities for recognition and awards, with utmost humility

Tell us something about your shooting? What pleasantly surprised you?
Photographs were taken at beautiful locations. The little child was kidnapped and taken onto the boat. Despite winning the competition, the child was unhappy about not having her father by her side. However, when I saw the way she cried for acting purposes, I was shocked. It was a tremendous display of skill, and I realized that she was my granddaughter

For what group of spectators is your film targeted?
The film is a family story but can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. It is intended for newcomers who aspire to make films as well as for seasoned filmmakers. The film holds significant importance, as it is an experimental project from a small-scale production group.

Once the movie is completed, newcomers can watch it and gain insights. This film encompasses various aspects such as Production, Direction, Camera work, Lyricism, Background Music, Production Execution, Lighting, Acting, Sound Management, Assistant Direction, Storytelling, Dialogue Writing, Screenplay, and even tasks like Vehicle Operation.

Throughout the process, I handled many responsibilities myself. In addition to makeup, English subtitles, editing, and art direction, my four kids, wife, and extended support system, including my two daughters-in-law and three outside contributors, played a crucial role. This project secured the Noble world record.
Why should distributors buy your film?
Based on the information provided above, I believe I have successfully overcome a significant challenge. However, I am not done yet; I aspire to accomplish more. Our country is small and lacks a substantial film audience. Furthermore, there is limited room for new talent to thrive in our film industry. Despite holding two world records, I have not received any support from the government or investors in our country to produce films. There are only a few individuals in our country who are interested in filmmaking, and outsiders face significant barriers to entry. Unfortunately, there is also a prevalence of jealousy among some people. I hope that someone will appreciate and purchase my film, thereby enabling me to create more movies.

How would you specify your work? What characterizes your film?
I believe my film conveys the message that we are all one nation, striving for peace. It also emphasizes the importance of taking care of our children.

Why did you decide to become a filmmaker?
Since childhood, I have had a fondness for time. I engaged in various art activities in school. Later on, I participated in stage plays and received awards for them in our country. Afterward, I produced television shorts. This hands-on experience taught me the practical aspects of filmmaking. I didn't learn from books, but through direct observation and practical involvement when some people were involved in the process.

Who is your role model?
My approach to learning is primarily practical. This is particularly true for activities like driving. It's insufficient to rely solely on theoretical knowledge from books when it comes to operating a vehicle. True proficiency comes from practical experience on the road.

Which movies are your favorites? Why?
I have quite a few, and I love experimenting.

Where do you look for inspiration for your films?
It is a challenging task. I find inspiration in trying something new.

Which topics interest you the most?
I enjoy discussing topics related to peace, marriage problems, and lost love relationships.

What do you consider your greatest achievement in your career?
Two world records and appreciation from international film festivals.

What do you consider most important about filming?
Everything you do is important

Which film technique of shooting do you consider the best?
We have to adapt to any new technology. That's why I am in favor of any technology I like. However, it should be affordable.

How would you rate/What is your opinion about current filmmaking?
Unfortunately, it's not the case in our country. However, the recognition I received from international film awards is impressive. I appreciate the fact that international film festivals like yours are recognizing talented individuals.

What can disappoint you in a movie?
When skills are not recognized, expectations are disappointed. If the money is not received, it is a dashed hope.

Who supports you in your film career?
My wife, four children, two daughters-in-law, brother-in-law, brother-in-law's daughters and sons, daughters-in-law, and three or four outsiders, who were artists.