Sri Lanka to build new regional cinemas under national film expansion plan

A nationwide programme to construct new regional cinema halls aimed at revitalizing Sri Lanka’s film industry and expanding audiences has been announced by the National Film Corporation, it was reported. According to the state newspaper Dinamina, the initiative, aligned with the government’s “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life” policy, seeks to modernize the local cinema sector and provide audiences with a superior movie‑going experience. The first round of discussions on the project, which will be implemented with private sector participation, was held last Friday at the Film Corporation premises under the chairmanship of Sudath Mahaadivulwewa. Under the plan, all new cinemas will be equipped with high‑tech facilities and designed with seating capacities between 50 and 100 to maximize comfort. Several business groups have already reached agreements with the Corporation to construct new theatres and modernize existing ones. New cinemas are set to be built in Gonawila, Pannala, Pitakotte, Narammala, and Nittambuwa, while existing theatres in Hatton, Monaragala, Embilipitiya, and Nugegoda will undergo complete modernization with advanced technology. Sudath Mahaadivulwewa noted that further investors will be engaged to expand cinema construction into additional regional towns. Around 12 leading businessmen, along with Film Corporation General Manager Ruwan Premaweera and senior officials, took part in the initial discussions. (Newswire)