Rani

"Rani," a 2025 Sri Lankan film, vividly depicts the atrocities that occurred in Sri Lanka during 1988 and 198917. The film has been praised for its cinematography and acting, making it a compelling cinematic experience1. "Rani" is a biographical drama thriller directed by Asoka Handagama and produced by Subaskaran Allirajah for Lyca Productions15. The movie stars Swarna Mallawarachchi as Manorani Saravanamuttu, and the cast includes Rehan Amaratunga, Sanath Gunathilake, Sajitha Anthony, and Bimal Jayakody.

The movie is based on the true story of Richard de Zoysa, a journalist, writer, human rights activist, and actor who was abducted and killed in 199013. The film follows his mother, Dr. Manorani Saravanamuttu, and her relentless pursuit of justice following her son's tragic death.

Critics have generally given "Rani" positive reviews, praising its soundtrack, cinematography, and the performances of the cast, particularly Swarna Mallawarachchi1. As of February 14, 2025, the film had grossed LKR 100 million, making it one of the highest-grossing films in Sri Lankan cinema history1. For younger audiences, "Rani" is an essential viewing experience that illustrates the impact of political unrest and the resilience of those who stood against oppression.

The movie take you to the flash backs of the threatning politacal era in Srilanka. It revolves around a grieving mother who fight for justice of her beloved son's abduction and murder. Movie director successfully built a strong character around this mother which emphasize sympathy and fight for Justice.

I can say it is one of the best acting of Swarna mallawarachchi after her masterpiece 'Dadayama' movie. It will probably lead to secure her spot on 2025 best actress award.

Strongly recommended to young generation of Srilanka to educate theirselves by watching this movie about recent history which was the time where citizens lost even their basic human rights.

Once again direcor Ashoka Hadgama kept his trade mark through his inherent Cinema style but i would say it is less contraversial than his other films as this movie lead to most accepted referendum by the society about this true incident.

If you interested in Sri Lanka past politics, Just go to theater and watch it.

Description:- Rani is a 2025 Sri Lankan biographical drama thriller directed by Asoka Handagama and produced by Subaskaran Allirajah for Lyca Productions. It marks the company's debut in Sri Lankan cinema. The film stars Swarna Mallawarachchi as the lead, alongside Rehan Amaratunga, Sanath Gunathilake, and others. It tells the story of Richard de Zoysa, a journalist and human rights activist abducted and killed on February 18, 1990. His mother, Manorani Saravanamuttu, fought for justice. Released on 30 January 2025, the film has received positive reviews, grossing LKR 10 million by 2 February 2025.

Based on true story in 1990s in Sri Lanka. International journalist ,Richard de Soyza kidnapped and slaughtered by former president Ranasingha Premadasa era.

Swarana Mallawarachchi cast very elegant charactor, Manorani Sarawanamuttu who s mother of Richard de Soyza .

Richard de Zoysa was a fearless journalist who criticized the government's human rights abuses during the late 1980s and early 1990s-a period marked by political violence, disappearances, and death squads. In February 1990, he was abducted from his home by unidentified armed men (widely believed to be state-sponsored death squads) and later found dead on a beach in Moratuwa, his body showing signs of torture. His murder sparked international outrage.

Raani is an absolute waste of both money and time. The movie lacks any proper flow, making it feel disjointed and difficult to follow. Instead of presenting a well-structured or compelling story, it seems more like an attempt to cover up the real murder of Richard. The weak narrative and poor execution make it frustrating to watch, and it completely fails to engage the audience. The pacing is off, the screenplay is messy, and there's no real depth to the storytelling. It neither delivers justice to the truth nor provides any entertainment value. If you're looking for a well-made movie with a gripping plot, this is definitely not it. A complete disappointment from start to finish, making you regret the time and money spent on it.