Acclaimed actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar is making her highly anticipated Hollywood debut, starring alongside Academy Award-winning British actor Jeremy Irons in the upcoming international film, 'Rizana - A Caged Bird.' The movie, currently being filmed in Sri Lanka, is based on a poignant true story, shedding light on the tragic case of Rizana Nafeek, a 17-year-old who was beheaded in Saudi Arabia in 2005 following allegations of killing a baby in her care. Vidushika Reddy plays the titular role of Rizana.
The project is helmed by veteran director Chandran Rutnam and produced by Jagath Sumathipala.
Expressing her excitement about the venture, Varalaxmi shared, "It is truly a dream come true to be working alongside an actor of the caliber of Academy Award winner Jeremy Irons." She recalled her admiration for Irons, noting, "He is the voice of Scar from 'The Lion King,' a film I adore to the point that I know all the dialogues by heart. To be making my Hollywood debut in a film with him is a monumental opportunity. He is such a respected actor not just in Hollywood, but in world cinema."
Varalaxmi also conveyed her pride in being directed by Chandran Rutnam. "Working under Chandran Rutnam Garu's direction is an honor. He is a visionary who has paved new paths not just for Sri Lankan cinema, but for global cinema as well. I am thrilled to have this opportunity to collaborate with such incredible international stars. This marks an unforgettable milestone in my career," she added.
'Rizana - A Caged Bird' is poised to be a landmark collaboration between South Asian and international cinema, bringing a powerful, true story to a global audience with a distinguished cast.
