Sri Lankan cinema, often referred to as Sinhala cinema , has evolved from its early 1947 roots into a sophisticated industry that balances commercial epics with internationally acclaimed art-house realism. As of April 2026
The 1970s and 80s brought volatility to Sri Lanka, and the filmography of this period reflects the youth uprisings (JVP insurrections) and the onset of the civil war.
(2023): The current highest-grossing film in Sri Lankan history, earning 610 million LKR. Dharmayuddhaya
Some notable Sri Lankan films that have made a significant impact on the country's cinema include: