The Kingdom of Cambodia has seen its share of triumph and tragedy over the centuries. For movie lovers, some of the most intriguing films explore Cambodia’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and tumultuous history. From sweeping epics to intimate documentaries, the country has inspired unforgettable cinema. Whether you’re planning an upcoming trip or simply want to deepen your understanding of this captivating place, you’ll find insight and inspiration in the best movies about Cambodia. As you read this guide to essential Cambodia films, get ready to discover stirring stories of survival against all odds, breathtaking scenery, and a nation of resilient people.
Top Historical Dramas Set in Cambodia
Some of the most poignant films that provide insight into Cambodia’s history are historical dramas based on true events. These movies chronicle Cambodia’s struggles in the mid-20th century, including life under the Khmer Rouge regime.
The Killing Fields (1984)
This acclaimed British film depicts the friendship between New York Times journalist Sydney Schanberg and his Cambodian colleague Dith Pran during the Cambodian Civil War and the fall of Phnom Penh to the Khmer Rouge. Pran gets separated from Schanberg and his family during the forced evacuation of the city. The movie follows Pran’s struggle to survive the “killing fields” of Cambodia under the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. This historical drama is a sobering look at the atrocities committed by Pol Pot’s forces in the 1970s
First They Killed My Father (2017)
Directed by Angelina Jolie, this biographical film is based on human rights activist name Loung Ung’s memoir of surviving the Khmer Rouge era as a child. The movie follows 5-year-old Ung as her family is forced from Phnom Penh to work camps by the Khmer Rouge. It provides a harrowing look at the forced labor, starvation, disease and violence that Ung’s family endures. The film has been praised for its realistic and respectful portrayal of Cambodia during this tragic period.
Other acclaimed films set during this era include The Last Reel (2014) and Red Wedding (2012). Through these movies, you can gain insight into the immense suffering experienced by Cambodians under Pol Pot’s totalitarian regime in the 1970s. By remembering this history, we can honor the victims and work to prevent such atrocities from happening again.
Must-See Documentaries About Cambodia’s Turbulent History
When it comes to learning about Cambodia’s complex and often tragic history, documentaries offer a glimpse into the human experience in a way that textbooks alone cannot. Check out these eye-opening films to gain insight into Cambodia’s past and present.
The Killing Fields (1984)
This impactful film chronicles New York Times journalist Sydney Schanberg and his Cambodian assistant Dith Pran’s experiences during and after Khmer Rouge Genocide regime in Cambodia. It provides a harrowing look at the atrocities and immense suffering under Pol Pot’s rule. Though grim, it’s essential viewing to understand Cambodia’s violent history.
S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine (2003)
This documentary features interviews with two former prisoners and guards of S21, the Khmer Rouge’s notorious secret prison. Their first-hand accounts of the torture, forced confessions, and mass murder that took place there offer a chilling look into the darkest chapter of Cambodia’s history. Though very graphic, this film is a sobering reminder of humanity’s potential for evil.
Cambodia: Betrayed and Devastated (2005)
This documentary provides an overview of Cambodia’s modern history, from French colonial rule through the Khmer Rouge era and beyond. It features historical footage as well as interviews with politicians, activists and citizens. The film examines how corruption and foreign interference have contributed to Cambodia’s struggles, though it ultimately strikes a hopeful tone regarding the country’s future. For a broad look at what shaped Cambodia into the nation it is today, this is an excellent primer.
While these documentaries can be emotionally difficult to watch, they provide invaluable insight into the events that shaped Cambodia. By understanding its history of violence and suffering, we can better appreciate Cambodia’s resilience and humanity. Though still healing from its past, Cambodia remains a place of beauty, spirituality and strength.
The Killing Fields – The Most Famous Movie About Cambodia
Released in 1984, The Killing Fields is by far the most well-known film about Cambodia’s tragic history. This historical docudrama is based on the experiences of two journalists who were in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime. Set in Phnom Penh from 1973 to 1979, it follows New York Times journalist Sidney Schanberg and his Cambodian assistant Dith Pran.
As the Khmer Rouge takes control of Cambodia and evacuates cities, Schanberg is forced to leave Pran behind. Pran ends up in a labour camp, but survives the brutality of the regime. The film portrays the Cambodian genocide in an emotional and gripping manner. You see Pran struggle through forced labor, starvation and violence in the killing fields. Despite the horrific events, it’s a story of friendship, courage and perseverance.
Filmed on location, the cinematography is stunning and captures the beauty of Cambodia. The film was critically acclaimed, winning three Academy Awards. Haing S. Ngor, who plays Dith Pran, won Best Supporting Actor – a remarkable achievement given he was not a professional actor but a Cambodian refugee and doctor. His own experiences added authenticity and poignancy to the role.
The Killing Fields serves as a sobering reminder of the atrocities that took place in Cambodia under Pol Pot’s rule. Though a difficult watch, it’s a profoundly moving film that provides insight into Cambodia’s history that you won’t get from any textbook. Some other highlights of the film include:
- The evacuations of Phnom Penh, where Khmer Rouge soldiers force residents out of the city into the countryside.
- Life in the work camps and the harsh conditions people endured.
- The enduring friendship between Schanberg and Pran, which shows humanity persevering in the face of unimaginable hardship.
If you want to understand Cambodia’s history, The Killing Fields is required viewing. While tragic, it’s a story that must be told and never forgotten. This film will stay with you long after watching it.
Contemporary Movies That Provide a Window Into Modern Cambodia
Several recent films provide insight into Cambodia’s complex modern history and culture. These movies, all filmed within the last 15 years, offer a glimpse into life in Cambodia today.
The Missing Picture (2013)
This documentary from director Rithy Panh uses clay figurines and archival footage to represent his memories of life under the Khmer Rouge. Panh was 13 when the regime came to power, and the film is a deeply personal account of his family’s suffering during their forced displacement and the Cambodian genocide. The unusual mixed-media style offers a creative way to tell such a traumatic story.
Cambodia: The Virginity Trade (2010)
This eye-opening documentary investigates Cambodia’s human trafficking crisis and the emerging trade in virginity. Young women are tricked or sold into prostitution, with their virginity auctioned off to the highest bidder. The filmmakers go undercover to expose the harsh realities of sex trafficking in Cambodia and its roots in poverty and lack of opportunity. It’s a sobering look at a dark underworld that continues to exploit the vulnerable.
While these films reveal the immense hardships in Cambodia’s recent past and present, they also highlight the resilience of the human spirit. By giving faces and voices to those who endured and survived, they provide a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s complex history. For anyone interested in learning more about this Southeast Asian nation, these impactful films are an excellent place to start.
Poppy Goes to Hollywood
This family film follows a young Cambodian orphan named Poppy who dreams of becoming a movie star. She travels from her small village to Phnom Penh, encountering challenges along the way but never giving up hope. Poppy Goes to Hollywood is currently in production, with plans for release in 2022.
- Heartwarming story of perseverance against adversity.
- Provides insights into Cambodian culture from a child’s perspective.
- Suitable for all ages.
Jailbreak
If action films are more your style, check out Jailbreak, Cambodia’s first martial arts film. Set in Phnom Penh, the story follows a mixed martial arts fighter who must fight his way through a secret prison to save his brother. The 2017 film was a major hit in Cambodia, demonstrating the country’s growing film industry.
- Fast-paced plot with amazing stunts and fight choreography.
- Filmed on location in Phnom Penh.
- Violent content not suitable for children.
With an increasing number of films shot in Cambodia and highlighting Cambodian stories, the country’s cinema scene looks promising. Keep an eye out for these upcoming titles as well as other Cambodian films that may be released internationally. There are sure to be more cinematic gems in the years to come.
You might also want to read:
The Sounds of Cambodia: A History of Khmer Music Instruments