The 8th edition of Derana-Lux Film Awards got underway at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre in Colombo on Friday evening (Sept.
08) with artistes adding glitz and glamour to the enchanting night.The ceremony recognizes and celebrates the top talents of Sri Lankan cinema for the brilliance they showcased in 2022.Kalana Gunasekara who starred in the action-packed thriller feature film Night Rider, Shyam Fernando in the drama film CineMa and Tray Hicks in the trilingual period movie Praana (Seeds) are the leading contenders for the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.Meanwhile, Gunasekaras co-star in Night Rider Yureni Noshika, Nethmi Roshel in the romantic musical movie Adaraneeya Prarthana and Ishanka Jahanvi in the romantic movie Ashawari are vying for the award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.For the Best Picture award, renowned filmmaker Ashoka Handagamas Alborada, Kasun Pathiranas directorial debut Night Rider and Sanjaya Nirmals Praana which is based on the true story of the Great Catholic Christian Massacre in 1544 have topped the list of nominations.Alborada and Night Rider were also nominated for the Best Director award, alongside Adaraneeya Prarthana.
These three pictures also topped the nominations for the Best Screenplay award.