French-Cambodian celebrity Elodie Yung and Stay Alive, My Son director, Victoria Bousis. Supplied
The 14th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) opened with a heartfelt ceremony on March 21. On screens across Phnom Penh until March 29, the festival brings filmmakers, cultural leaders and global audiences for a celebration of cinema’s transformative power.
The event highlighted the festival’s role as a platform for storytelling, cultural exchange and education.
Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona opened the ceremony by expressing deep gratitude for the collaboration of various partners who made the event possible, including the Cambodia Film Commission and the UN in Cambodia.
“The Cambodia International Film Festival serves as a vibrant platform for global filmmakers to connect, exchange ideas and share experiences,” she said.
“Film is more than just entertainment — it is a dynamic creative industry that drives innovation, embraces new technologies and serves as a powerful medium for cultural expression,” she added.
Guests attend the opening of the 14th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) on March 21, at Chaktomuk Theater. Thenh Rithy
She described the CIFF as not just a celebration of film but a key player in Cambodia’s development, contributing to both the nation’s economic growth and its role as a cultural hub in the region.
A key theme of this year’s festival is the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge era, with a special programme titled 1975–2025: FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT IN CAMBODIA'S STORY.
This poignant retrospective features a series of films aimed at preserving the memory of one of the darkest periods in Cambodian history.
Sackona spoke about the importance of reflecting on Cambodia’s past to foster awareness among younger generations, ensuring that the horrors of the Khmer Rouge era are never forgotten.
The special programme not only offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s painful history but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of its people.
14th CIFF Goodwill Ambassador Sophy Odom speaks to the media at the opening ceremony. Thenh Rithy
Through film, the festival continues its mission to educate, engage, and empower individuals to reflect on history and learn from it.
“It is a vital opportunity to preserve memory, foster awareness and honour Cambodia’s resilience,” said Sackona.
One of the most innovative highlights of the 14th CIFF is the premiere of Stay Alive, My Son, a groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) experience that brings to life the true story of Pin Yathay, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge regime.
French-Cambodian celebrity Elodie Yung, who starred in the film, described the film on her social media.
“What an honour to share that moment with my beautiful director for the Première of Stay Alive, My Son, a heartbreaking immersive experience in the lives of Cambodian survivors,” she wrote.
“We're so thrilled our story is officially in competition at The Venice Film Festival,” she added.
Created by Victoria Bousis, the VR experience allows viewers to step inside history, offering a deeply immersive and emotional exploration of Cambodia’s past.
Bousis shared her personal connection to Cambodia’s history and the story of Stay Alive, My Son, which has already been screened in 27 countries.
‘LOOT’ uncovers the tragic consequences of the looting of Cambodian temples during the Khmer Rouge era, while ‘Vahkim’ explores the experiences of the Kingdom’s diaspora. Supplied
“Virtual reality transforms history from something abstract into something deeply personal and tangible,” Bousis said.
Bousis said the power of technology in bridging the gap between generations and allowing younger Cambodians to experience and understand their painful history in a new, impactful way.
CIFF Goodwill Ambassador, Sophy Odom, also took the stage to speak about her passion for empowering women and sharing the beauty of Cambodian heritage with the world.
Odom, a mother of six and passionate entrepreneur, reflected on her own journey from a refugee camp to Australia and how it has shaped her commitment to promoting Cambodian culture.
Odom announced her involvement in the Ms. Global 2025 competition, which offers a global platform for highlighting the resilience of Cambodian women.
She also encouraged the audience to vote and support the Women in Need Foundation, which provides essential resources to women facing adversity.
“This platform presents a unique opportunity to shine a global spotlight on the beauty and resilience of Cambodian culture, and to share the inspiring stories of Cambodian women. I sincerely invite you to join me on this journey by casting your vote,” she said.
Odom’s message of empowerment was also reflected in the festival’s special programmes, which emphasize women’s stories and their contributions to society.
Cedric Eloy, the Director of CIFF, closed the opening ceremony by emphasising the festival’s role in bridging Cambodia with the global community.
Eloy highlighted the festival’s efforts to reconnect the Cambodian diaspora with their roots, as seen in the screening of Vakhim, a documentary about a young Cambodian man adopted by an Italian family who returns to Cambodia to explore his heritage.
“I want to underline this year that CIFF serves as a bridge between Cambodia and its diaspora, a platform for reconnecting with roots and discovering new perspectives on the Kingdom’s evolving identity,” said Eloy.
“This theme is powerfully reflected in VAKHIM, a deeply touching documentary that tells the story of a young man, adopted from Cambodia and raised in Italy, as he returns to his homeland for the first time, and tonight he is among us with his mother who dedicated this movie to him and his family,” he said.
He also noted that the festival is honoured to premiere LOOT, in partnership with the Embassy of Canada. This powerful documentary sheds light on the theft of Cambodian artifacts and represents a remarkable coproduction between Cambodia and Canada. But a festival is also about balance.
While we explore profound and emotional themes, they also believe in the joy of storytelling. This is where our Australian Special Program – Outback Laughter comes in!
Eloy also spoke about CIFF’s expanding influence in the region, announcing plans to bring the festival to additional Cambodian cities such as Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kep West in the near future.
The festival’s growth reflects a broader effort to position Cambodia as a key player in the global film industry, with the support of the government, international partners, and local institutions.
As the festival continues over the next nine days, with 150 films from 41 countries and over 50 international filmmakers participating, it stands as a testament to the power of cinema to inspire, educate and connect cultures.
With themes like Women’s Stories from the World and Waters of Life, CIFF underscores its commitment to creating meaningful conversations around critical issues such as women’s rights and environmental sustainability.
