The 13th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) opened with a grand gala at Chaktomuk Theatre on June 25, bringing together a diverse array of filmmakers, artists and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. 

The event showcased the country’s growing creative industry and its role in fostering international collaboration.

Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, delivered an inspiring speech at the opening, emphasising the festival's significance. 

"CIFF is a dynamic hub for global filmmakers to exchange ideas and experiences. It provides a valuable platform for young Cambodians to expand their perspectives through a diverse selection of films from around the world," she stated. 

This year's edition presents an extensive selection of 153 films from 41 countries, including 48 from Cambodia.

Sackona highlighted the festival's potential to propel national economic development and elevate the country’s profile on the international stage.

The minister acknowledged the support of various partners, including the UN, the UN Development Fund (UNDP), the World Food Programme (WEP) and the Indian and Australian embassies to Cambodia. 

She also praised the efforts of Panh Rithy, whose film "Rendez-vous avec Pol Pot" (Meeting with Pol Pot) was featured at the Cannes Film Festival and screened in over 200 theatres across France. 

Additionally, she expressed gratitude to National Bank of Cambodia governor Chea Serey for her crucial support in raising awareness and strengthening the country’s film industry.

As an artist, Serey said she was privileged to have been named an honorary patron of the festival.

"Cambodia's cinema is booming with internationally recognised creativity that deserves everyone's support and encouragement to [help it] become a thriving industry that fully contributes to economic growth," she said.

Sackona underscored the government’s support for the film industry, noting the introduction of key fiscal incentives under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s leadership. 

"The government has suspended major tax obligations for local filmmakers from 2024 to 2028 and is encouraging international filmmakers to shoot in Cambodia," she said.

CIFF director Cedric Eloy also took the stage to express his appreciation for the festival's supporters and participants. 

"On behalf of the organisers, I would like to express my gratitude to our dedicated team, invaluable partners and sponsors, and our devoted volunteers. Each contributes time, effort and sweat to make this 13th edition of the festival a reality," Eloy remarked.

Pan Simala, sales manager from SR Digital Media and the Phnom Penh Post, expressed her excitement at seeing so many people attend the event despite the rain.

“More people than expected!” she exclaimed.

“To contribute to the promotion of the film industry, SR Digital Media, Phnom Penh Post and Post Khmer are proud to be part of the CIFF,” Simala said.

Eloy highlighted the festival’s diverse programme, featuring films from Cambodia, Australia, France, the US, India and beyond. 

He emphasised the importance of interaction and inspiration within the event. 

"CIFF is not merely about passive film watching – most of us do that at home with Netflix. A true festival celebrates creative individuals and encourages interaction with the minds behind the films, thereby inspiring others to unbind creativity," he said.

Special programmes like “Life Long Learning” and “Roads to Olympia” are tailored to inspire Cambodian youth, encouraging them to pursue their dreams through education, hard work and dedication. 

Eloy urged attendees to look beyond the glitz of the red carpet and discover remarkable films and filmmakers.

He also stressed the importance of support for artists and creators from both the public and private sectors. 

"Every artist and creator present requires support. Weekly, we encounter exceptional film projects in need of financial backing," he noted. 

Eloy also highlighted the economic impact of the film industry in promoting tourism, generating employment and cultivating enduring skills.

Reflecting on CIFF’s journey since its inception in 2010, he called for continued collaboration to build on past successes. 

"Just a decade ago, Cambodian cinema received its first Oscar nomination in 2014, marking a pivotal moment generating hope for our industry. This milestone, alongside collaborative ventures such as Angelina Jolie's production with Cambodian filmmakers, serves as a foundation upon which to build," he said.

As the festival unfolds over the next days, attendees are encouraged to explore the schedule, engage on social media and immerse themselves in the diverse stories presented. 

"Let's travel the world of stories together and shape the stories of tomorrow. Enjoy CIFF!" Eloy concluded.

An important highlight of the minister's speech was the introduction of the "Mekong Discovery Days" initiative. 

The programme is a collaborative effort within the scope of CIFF, aimed at conserving the country’s ecology and showcasing the region's cultural and natural heritage. 

"Your contributions underline the festival's vital role as a catalyst for collaborative efforts aimed at conserving Cambodia's rich biodiversity," Sackona said.