Funny Boy, directed by Deepa Mehta, co-written by Deepa Mehta and Shyam Selvadurai, and composed by Howard Shore, was recently awarded three Canadian Screen Awards for Achievement in Direction, Adapted Screenplay, and Original Score. The movie explores the main character Arjie’s sexual awakening from a young boy to a teenager who falls in love with a male classmate, just as political tensions escalate between the Sinhalese and Tamils in the years leading up to the 1983 uprisings.
Speaking to cast member Nimmi Harasgama, who played the lead female character Nalini, she expressed her thoughts on this achievement. “I was very thrilled for the three of them. This is such a huge achievement. Being a part of this film was such an interesting journey, from start to end, and I think these awards are well deserved.”
She also gave us some insights into her experience acting in the film. “It was an amazing experience! I’ve always wanted to work with Deepa Mehta and I’ve always dreamt of acting in Funny Boy. When the book was out, I fell in love with it, so the universe collided and I got the chance to do both at the same time.”
Sharing his thoughts on this achievement, Brandon Ingram, who plays the older version of Arjie, commented: “I think it’s great. It’s fantastic that they recognised Deepa in achievement in direction; she worked really hard for the film, so the Academy recognising that goes a long way.”
He also added that this achievement goes to show the board of diversity and inclusivity. “Howard Shore is a multi-globe award-winner, so it goes without saying that this award was well deserved. We, as the cast, feel really honoured that these directors, writers, and composers chose to work on this movie.”
Ingram also observed that it is great for Selvadurai to have his work acknowledged.
This movie has, time and time again, brought recognition to Sri Lanka, and this is yet another one of its commendable achievements.
