Sri Lankan film director Ilango Ram and producer Hiranya Perera will screen their new film Rabbit Hole at the Asian Project Market in Busan, aiming to shed light on their country’s entrenched social hierarchies.
The project, which explores the lives of Indian Tamils on the tea estates of Sri Lanka and their role as domestic workers in middle-class families, was born out of Ramu’s personal connections with the community. “Witnessing the employment of Tamil maids in Sinhalese homes evokes deep discomfort and an honest exploration of pain and frustration,” Ram told Variety.
“Rabbit Hole” depicts a middle-class Sri Lankan family whose life falls apart when they learn that their housekeeper has cancer, a series of events that exposes underlying social tensions and culminates in a tragic climax. Leads to.
Director Lam, whose previous film Tentigo won the Special Jury Prize at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, aims to explore the complexity of human emotions and the difficult choices made under pressure. “We want viewers to engage with the film on a personal level, seeing their own experiences reflected in the characters, rather than being told what to think. ” he said.
Producer Perera, who also directed “Tentigo”, sees “Rabbit Hole” as an opportunity to elevate Sri Lankan cinema. “It’s about telling important stories and showcasing the unique perspectives of our region on a global platform,” she said. Perera added that this project is in line with her vision to support bold and unconventional stories that push boundaries.
“Additionally, as a female producer at the helm of a male-dominated industry, I relate to the spirit of this project. It speaks to themes of resilience and overcoming obstacles, and it reflects my own journey. ” Perera said.
The film’s budget is set at $467,000, with $177,000 already secured. The team plans to begin shooting in August 2025.
At APM, Perera hopes to secure partnerships and expand the network of “rabbit holes.” “I aim to showcase Sri Lankan cinema on the international stage and open doors to future collaborations and opportunities,” she said.
Hiranya Perera, Ilango Ram
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