This curated collection of Cambodian biopic films offers a window into the soul of a nation that has endured much but remains resilient. These films not only tell the stories of individuals but also reflect the broader historical and cultural context of Cambodia, providing viewers with an educational and emotional journey through its tumultuous past and vibrant present. From tales of survival during the Khmer Rouge regime to the lives of influential figures, this selection is a testament to the enduring spirit of Cambodia.
The Killing Fields (1984)
Description: This film captures the harrowing experience of a Cambodian journalist and his American colleague during the Khmer Rouge regime, highlighting the atrocities committed and the resilience of the human spirit.
Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Supporting Actor for Haing S. Ngor, who himself survived the Khmer Rouge.
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Enemies of the People (2009)
Description: This documentary follows two former Khmer Rouge leaders as they revisit their past, providing insight into the motivations and aftermath of the regime.
Fact: The film was shot over a period of 10 years, capturing the evolving perspectives of the subjects.
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The Missing Picture (2013)
Description: This documentary uses clay figures to represent the missing images from the filmmaker's childhood during the Khmer Rouge regime, offering a unique visual narrative.
Fact: It won the Un Certain Regard at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars.
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A River Changes Course (2013)
Description: While not strictly a biopic, this documentary follows three families in rural Cambodia, showing the impact of globalization and modernization on traditional lifestyles.
Fact: It won the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize: Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival.
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The Gate (2014)
Description: Based on the true story of a family's survival during the Khmer Rouge, this film focuses on the emotional and psychological impact of the regime on ordinary Cambodians.
Fact: It was Cambodia's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards.
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First They Killed My Father (2017)
Description: Directed by Angelina Jolie, this film is based on the memoir by Loung Ung, depicting her childhood under the Khmer Rouge, offering a child's perspective on the genocide.
Fact: The film was shot in Cambodia with many local actors, providing authenticity to the portrayal of the era.
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The Road to Phnom Penh (2009)
Description: This film explores the journey of a Cambodian refugee returning home after years in exile, reflecting on the changes in Cambodia and personal reconciliation.
Fact: The film was shot in both Cambodia and the United States, showcasing the diaspora experience.
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The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine (2003)
Description: This documentary delves into the inner workings of the Khmer Rouge, exploring how ordinary people were transformed into killers.
Fact: It includes interviews with former Khmer Rouge members, providing firsthand accounts of the regime's operations.
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The Last Reel (2014)
Description: Set in 1978, this film tells the story of a young woman trying to save the last reel of a film during the Khmer Rouge era, symbolizing the preservation of culture.
Fact: The film was Cambodia's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards.
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The Lost Picture (2017)
Description: This documentary follows the journey of a Cambodian filmmaker searching for lost films from the 1960s and 70s, reflecting on the cultural loss during the Khmer Rouge.
Fact: It highlights the efforts to preserve and restore Cambodian cinematic heritage.
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