Filmmaker Lalith Rathnayake from Sri Lanka received the prestigious Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for Best Director in the International competition on Innovation in Moving Images category at KIFF 2025 for his film Riverstone.
This gripping 120-minute narrative follows a journey of three Sri Lankan police officers escorting a prisoner through rugged mountainous regions. Their journey is fraught with the looming threat of the prisoner’s assassination, while simultaneously delving into the personal struggles, hypocrisies, and moral dilemmas faced by each character. The film intricately examines the nuances of duty, morality and humanity in the face of state violence and administrative duty, all while highlighting the complex tapestry of ethnic tension and power dynamics. A t2 exclusive with the director after his win:
Congratulations on your win at KIFF! How does it feel?
Thank you! It feels incredible. The audience in Calcutta is warm and deeply connected to cinema. This was our first time screening here, and receiving this recognition is truly special.
The film has received praise at other screenings, too. What do you think is resonating with people about your story?
The story speaks of universal human emotions. Even though it’s based in our country, the themes feel familiar worldwide. People connect with the honesty of the characters and the reality the film presents.
Why was it important for you to tell this story?
This story reflects a social issue affecting many communities. I felt it was important to portray these hidden realities and give a voice to people whose stories are often overlooked.
Were there any major challenges of filming?
Yes, some locations were difficult and required careful planning. But the commitment of the team made the entire journey rewarding.
Your debut film The Other Half was also a huge success. What inspires your directorial vision, and what subjects do you hope to explore next?
I am inspired by real people and real experiences. In the future, I hope to explore themes that reveal deeper social truths and human relationships.