Let Her Cry

"Let Her Cry" is a visceral travesty of emotion, a heart-pumping drama that delves deep into forbidden love and the societal dynamics surrounding it. The film, released in 2015, is a valiant venture of Sri Lankan cinema, brought to life by celebrated international actor Dhritiman Chatterjee, the inimitable Swarna Mallawarachchi, and promising young actress Rithika Kodithuwakku.

Directed by Asoka Handagama, known for his bold storytelling abilities, "Let Her Cry" explores a relationship triangle set in a contemporary Sri Lankan landscape. It is a narrative initiated by a quiet unease, emerging into consciousness from an opaque societal discussion about love and romance. Disturbing yet fascinating, the film operates on a psychological level, subverting norms intrepidly to bring out situations of emotional chaos that bind its key characters.

Dhritiman Chatterjee plays Professor Abeyratne, an ageing academic researcher, whose failing health and struggling relationship with his wife Piyumi (Swarna Mallawarachchi), shape the crux of the film. Swarna, a veteran in the Lankan film industry, does an excellent portrayal of Piyumi - a character that is the epitome of the modern, independent woman yet trapped in a failing marriage.

The film takes an interesting turn when Meena (Rithika Kodithuwakku), a young art student from the same university where the Professor teaches, enters the lives of this deteriorating couple. Rithika handles the role of Meena with nuance and sensitivity, illustrating the life of a youthful, free-spirited woman who becomes embroiled in a complex web of emotions and relationships. The trio's interaction spirals beyond the conventional relationship norms, setting an intense drama that inevitably questions societal norms, morality, and love's very essence.

Handagama uses simple storytelling techniques to add an undercurrent of tension, allowing the narrative to simmer initially before eventually bringing the plot to a boiling point. The beauty of the script lies in how the characters evolve as the tension unfolds, conforming to, yet challenging, traditional relationship dynamics simultaneously.

Conflicts develop gradually in the narrative, driven by jealousy, guilt, and regret. Handagama's script explores the raw, brutal realities of human relationships while unflinchingly shedding light on the often-blurred line between genuine affection, obsession, and obligation. Through the lens of his narrative, we embark on a journey that showcases the unseen side of societal norms and challenges our perspectives on the traditional understanding of love and marriage.

"Let Her Cry" is not a typical romantic drama. Instead, it is a gripping tale of people grappling with their emotions against societal norms that refuse to evolve. The film delivers superb performances underpinned by a poignant script, showcasing the longevity and validity of unconventional love beyond societal barriers, age, and relationships.

The cinematography complements the progressive storyline, creating an expansive aesthetic that resonates with the audience. From the opulent residences to the sprawling university and the tranquil countryside, the visual narrative functions as a narrative partner rather than a passive backdrop, adding depth and intensity to the overall narrative.

The film's music score is another vital layer that sets the varying emotional tones throughout its course. Ranging from an innocent piano to a solemn saxophone, the music encapsulates the changing narrative's mood, amplifying tension and drawing viewers deeper into the characters' psyches.

"Let Her Cry" successfully tackles a bold theme, and the actors deliver top-notch performances. Dhritiman's persuasive portrayal of an ageing professor, Swarna's convincing enactment of a desperate housewife and Rithika's sensitive depiction of a young woman caught in the crosshairs of love and propriety adds credibility to the narrative layers.

Despite its controversial theme, "Let Her Cry" isn't inflammatory or scandalous. The story flows smoothly without resorting to shock and awe tactics and allows the audience to derive their understanding from the narrative. Ultimately, "Let Her Cry" is a poignant film that challenges societal norms, encourages introspection about human nature and relationships, and leaves viewers appreciating the complexity and beauty of love in all its forms.