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The Girls (PG)

— ,Cinemas
two girls

Sumitra Peries’ ground-breaking Sri Lankan film takes you on a tender and transporting journey through young dreams and first loves. 

Kusum, a poor and studious village girl who cleans the house of a wealthy family, sparks a connection with Nimal, the family’s prized son. Soma, Kusum’s younger sister, pursues beauty pageants and dreams of acting, believing it’s her best chance of a better life. 

What unfolds is a lyrical and poignant coming-of-age story, brimming with yearning and feminine sensibility. Peries, known as ‘the poetess of Sri Lankan cinema’, became the country’s first female director with this astonishing debut. 

She draws out natural, affecting performances from her cast, particularly Vasanthi Chathurani, who was still at school when she played Kusum, the role that launched a long screen career. 

Tagged with: Cinema Magic Mondays New releases
Film information
  • Release year   1978
  • Country of origin   Sri Lanka
  • Director   Sumitra Peries
  • Runtime   1hr 50mins

Cinemas

Location
Barbican Cinema 1 is located within the main Barbican building on Level -2. Head to Level G and walk towards the Lakeside Terrace where you’ll find stairs and lifts to take you down to the venue floor.   

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.