‘Riverstone’ Strikes Gold at France’s Vesoul Film Festival View(s):Sri Lankan cinema earned yet another moment of global recognition as director Lalith Rathnayake’s film ‘Riverstone’ clinched the Top Prize at the 32nd Vesoul International Festival of Asian Cinema, which concluded last week in France. The film was awarded the prestigious Golden Cyclo, with the international jury commending Rathnayake for having ‘fully expressed the humanistic spirit’ of the adapted work. Presided over by acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Wang Bing, the jury included Korean director Shin Su-won, Iranian producer Katayoon Shahabi, andFrench director, producer and screenwriter Joël Farges. The festival concluded on February 3, following a week-long showcase of over 100 Asian films from 24 countries, drawing thousands of cinema enthusiasts to the French town of Vesoul. Founded in 1995 by Martine and Jean-Marc Thérouanne, who continue to co-direct the event, the Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema remains a leading platform dedicated exclusively to Asian filmmaking.

Source: Sunday Times February 07, 2026 20:10 UTC