Given the simple yet apt synopsis of, “In the gentrifying neighborhoods of Colombo, an adolescent girl copes with her insecurities by seeking solace in fantasy.”, Thisen Umagiliya's “Distance” is a kaleidoscope of emotions centered around the coming of age of a young woman who embarks on a night of rebellion after meeting her idol at a party. The production uses abstract storytelling to paint a tragic portrait of desire, inequality, and idolatry in the modern era.
“Distance” review is part of the Submit Your Film Initiative
What makes “Distance” work so brilliantly in its exploration of complex themes is director Thisen Umagiliya's ability to craft a story steeped in the culture of Sri Lanka and its treatment of youth while simultaneously tapping into global issues brought on by the modern comforts of technology. The film, undeniably, has a locale and culture around it that feeds into the protagonist's sense of desperation, yet the emotions felt by her could place her anywhere in the world. This further helps the more abstract moments from becoming alien to those outside of them. Essentially, “Distance” is exemplary of the ability of film to transcend both language and culture to touch on fundamental truths.
Visually, “Distance” flows like a dream, drenched in color and predominately presented with a calm serenity. Cinematographer Palitha Perera and editor Adrew Sean do an immaculate job of bringing forth the vision of Umagiliya. Notably, the closing moments of the film offer up an unforgettable vision of innocence lost, through lights pulsing and fading around the young woman. The score is an appropriate mix of more modern pop and electronic music to express the main character's youth and interests.
All these clever choices by Umagiliya and his team help to hide the budgetary restrictions of the work and give the impression of a major cinematic work, with a few exceptions. Notably, the somewhat awkward and empty ‘club' is a subtle tell of the production's restraints to fully bring an environment like that to fruition. It is not flawless, but it is an impressive showcase of ingenuity to show ways to make a budget work in favor of a film without compromising the artistic vision of its creator, and despite a few hiccups, the overall presentation is sleek and stylized.
The performances from the young cast manage to impress, with Dhiyana Silva's (Tharini) shy coming-of-age story starting off awkward yet her performance aptly escalates into the closing moments leaving a positive impression of the actor. Comparatively, Luna Hug-Castro as Sasha is loud and unapologetic in a way that entices Tharini's with her own desires to stand out and exude confidence. Both work well together and feed off each other's energy, which is key in exploring the themes of idol worship that push Silva's character toward her tragedy.
However, as well executed as certain elements are, that is not to say that “Distance” will have a universal appeal. The themes though explored in a lush visual presentation that is simple to follow on a visceral level, subvert their meaning through abstract storytelling. There are even certain elements that could be interpreted negatively if examined in a certain way, whereas a Luddite could see this as a damning indictment of technology. Furthermore, its abstract approach will make it better suited for those who enjoy films that have some ambiguity and open up discussion, as this is not a quick piece of escapism just meant to entertain. Still, this limited appeal and room for misinterpretations of the messaging should not distract viewers from interpreting the material for themselves.
Overall, “Distance” is a beautifully constructed piece of experimental cinema that stays grounded in its exploration of universal themes and issues that youths face today. Thisen Umagiliya has crafted an impressive piece of cinema, and it will be exciting to see how the filmmaker continues to develop.
