Srilanka, Feb. 6 -- I attended the movie 'Rani' where its characters allegedly represent the lives, times and the deaths of Dr. Manorani Saravanamuttu and Richard de Zoysa.

In my opinion the film is a sinful and vulgar butchering of the memories of mother, son and the third protagonist, Lalith Athulathmudali.

Richard was one year my senior in school, and I admired very much his tallents and accomplishments.

Sanath Gunathilake, playing Lalith Lalith Athulathmudali, was akin to Mervyn Silva playing Henry Higgins, and the portrayal of Dr. Manorani Saravanamuttu as Dr. Manorani and as a drunkard is particularly offensive. And the attempt to exculpate Premadasa from direct involvement in Richard's murder is diabolical.

Those who knew ...