Abstract:
In the history ofSri Lankan cinema, which begins with the film "Rajakeeya Wickramaya"
there are a number of films based on heroic historical characters. They include films such
as "Saradiyel", "Seegiri Kashyapa", "Weera Puran Appu", "Weera Madduma Bandara".
The film "Aba" can be regarded as the latest addition to that list. Similarly, in the Indian
cinema, which has provided the inspiration there are many films based on historical heroic
characters. This study examines the exaltation of patriotism in these films. Lester James
Peris's "Weera Puran Appu" Joe Michel's "Weera Madduma Bandara" as well as "Bhagat
Singh" directed by Raj Kumar Santoshi and "Mangal Panday" directed by Kethan Mehtha
have been selected for a comparative study.
The method used in this study is the method of content analysis.
The Indian film creates patriotic feelings not only through the story but also through sensitive
characters situation and handling of music. On the contrary the creative lapses on the part of
the Sri Lankan filmmakers keep the Sinhala film at a relatively low ebb in this regard.
