Burning Birds

Since her fish salesman husband was killed by militant thugs for his political affiliations, Kusum has been left alone to support her eight children and her mother-in-law. She does this by breaking rocks in a nearby quarry. But of course, things can get worse and they do in this heartfelt but gruelling litany of suffering.

Directed by Sanjeewa Pushpakumara, Burning Birds leans on a strong ensemble — Mahendra Perera, Shyam Fernando, Anoma Janadari — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2016.