Iqbal

Iqbal is about an Asian boy who gets sold by his father to a small carpentry production company in which child labour is supported. His "master" is a cruel man, imposing a ridiculous behaviour catalogue with strict charges. The children, about 5-10 years of age, have to work all day and they´re not allowed to go to toilet while at work, let alone visit their parents. Iqbal soon realizes that this is a massive injustice, especially when a member of the (unindentified) country´s Communist and Anti-child labour party takes photographs of the children.

Directed by Cinzia TH Torrini, Iqbal leans on a strong ensemble — Lucky Dias, Trelicia Gunawardena, Veena Jayakody — 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 drama titles of 1998.