Seattle, Wash. — Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage’s “With You, Without You” was the closing night film at the 9th annual Seattle South Asian Film Festival Nov. 9.
At a VIP reception later that evening, Vithanage — who could not attend due to scheduling conflicts — was also honored for his contribution to Sri Lankan cinema, receiving the festival’s Tasveer Emerald Award which honors exemplary personalities in the South Asian film industry. “I am proud to receive the Tasveer Emerald Award, and impressed with the richness and variety of films and filmmakers that Tasveer brings to Seattle,” Vithanage said in a statement.
A special award for Outstanding Film in a Social Category was awarded to the acclaimed Marathi drama “Fandry”by the Seattle chapter of Pratham; while the SSAFF 2014 Jury Award went to Kanu Behl’s feature debut “Titli.” SSAFF 2014 Audience Awards in three categories went to “Teenkahon”(“Three Obsessions”), “Jaya” and the documentary “Are You Listening!”
The festival included 27 screenings and two educational panels.
“We are so inspired by the support the festival has received from the local film community, audiences, filmmakers, Washington Filmworks and The Film School,” said festival executive director Rita Meher.