Yuganthaya, a captivating cinematic achievement directed by renowned Sri Lankan filmmaker Lester James Peiris, ushers us into an engaging familial drama flavoured with social critique. Released in 1983, the movie boasts of a formidable ensemble in its cast, including acclaimed actors Gamini Fonseka, Richard De Zoysa, Ramani Bartholomeusz, and Wickrema Bogoda.

Set in the context of the socio-political environment of Sri Lanka in the 1980s, Yuganthaya, which translates to ‘End of an Era’, crafts a narrative that revolves around a family's internal dynamics and the conflicts that ensue amidst them, all while serving as a metaphor for the broader societal issues of the time. Built around the tensions of the capitalist society, the movie mirrors the contradictions and conundrums of a complex socio-economic system, providing a profound social commentary.

Gamini Fonseka undeniably owns the screen as the patriarch Victor Abeywickrema, a ruthless capitalist at the helm of a large industrial empire. Fonseka’s commanding performance masterfully portrays the trials and tribulations of a man entrenched in his ideological beliefs, and his insistence on maintaining his domineering hold over all aspects of his environment, including his household.

Richard De Zoyza, another critical figure in the narrative, delivers an equally impressive performance as Victor's rebellious son, Malaka Abeywickrema. Educated abroad, Malaka's return marks a superlative shift in the dynamics of the conventional household. Embittered by his father's capitalist values and the exploitation of the working class, Malaka becomes a contrasting figure, embodying a voice of dissent against his father's oppressive regime.

Ramani Bartholomeusz portrays the role of Devika, Malaka’s girlfriend, adding another complicated layer to this intricate family drama. Her role brings in a breath of fresh air, providing a counter perspective to the men in her life. Meanwhile, Wickrema Bogoda portrays the role of Nandasiri, Victor's loyal manager and right-hand man, who’s ideology becomes caught between Victor's unyielding capitalism and Malaka's disruptive socialism.

The narrative of Yuganthaya unfurls not merely as an exploration of familial relations but also as a reflection of the broader societal power dynamics. The familial disputes are skillfully used as a metaphor to explore larger socio-political issues, mirroring the tussle between different ideologies—capitalism and socialism.

The tactical use of symbolism is another aspect that stands out in Yuganthaya, with its nuanced metaphors aptly positioning the plot and the characters. The family's domestic landscape, Victor's factory, and the town's serene landscapes all hold symbolic value, reflecting various aspects of the socio-political climate of the period.

Director Lester James Peris’s meticulous storytelling coupled with his signature social realism brings an intense cinematic experience in Yuganthaya. The narrative forces its audience to grapple with the question of morality in the face of inequity and makes them confront the reality of societal disparities. Peiris uses cinema as a tool to bring the audiences face-to-face with the societal contradictions that shape our lives while casting a critical gaze towards the existing social zeitgeist.

In conclusion, Yuganthaya offers an intense cinematic experience couched in an engaging narrative that constantly challenges its audience, refusing to let them settle in complacency. With its compelling character arcs embodied by stellar performances, tactical utilization of symbolism, and emotive storytelling, Yuganthaya becomes an unavoidable discourse on Sri Lanka’s socio-political fabric of the 1980s. Lester James Peris, once again, proves his mastery in capturing the human condition and the socio-political undercurrents through the seamless union of familial drama and societal commentary in Yuganthaya.