‘Stay Alive, My Son’ is an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience starring French-Cambodian celebrity Elodie Yung and created by Victoria Bousis. Supplied
The 14th edition of the Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) is set to dazzle audiences from March 21-29, with over 150 screenings and events showcasing global, and local, cinematic talent.
During the 13th edition of the festival, held in June last year, Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, delivered an inspiring opening speech which emphasised the festival's significance as a dynamic hub for global filmmakers to exchange ideas and experiences.
She highlighted CIFF's role in providing a valuable platform for young Cambodians to broaden their perspectives through a diverse selection of international films.
“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 said.
This year’s festival presents a carefully curated selection of films, and among the highlights is the Glimpse of Cambodia programme, which includes the Cambodia premiere of LOOT: A Story of Crime and Redemption by Don Millar.
The 14th edition of the Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) is set to dazzle audiences from March 21-29, with over 150 screenings. Supplied
LOOT: A documentary on the dark side of the art world
Filmed across the past few years, LOOT uncovers the tragic consequences of the looting of Cambodian temples during the Khmer Rouge era.
The documentary focuses on how child soldiers were forced into violent raids to steal invaluable artefacts, which were then sold to billionaires and elite museums worldwide.
“The film also highlights ongoing efforts to return Cambodia’s stolen cultural heritage,” according to CIFF’s organisers.
“The screening will be accompanied by a panel discussion on Cambodia’s heritage and the repatriation of looted artefacts, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between crime, cultural preservation and the global art market,” they added.
Virtual reality experience: Khmer Rouge memories
Another highly anticipated event at this year’s CIFF is the Khmer Rouge Memory Virtual Reality (VR) experience.
Created by Hollywood’s Victoria Bousis, Stay Alive, My Son offers a deeply personal journey through the harrowing true story of Pin Yathay, a Cambodian engineer who survived the Khmer Rouge regime.
The VR experience allows audiences to witness Cambodia's darkest period through immersive technology.
Stay Alive, My Son is an immersive VR experience starring French-Cambodian celebrity Elodie Yung and created by Bousis, who will attend the CIFF Opening Gala and offer the chance to experience the Khmer Rouge period through VR for the first time.
“The experience will be offered to the public at the Bophana Center from March 22-26, providing a unique opportunity to reflect on the human suffering of the era in a new, innovative way,” said the organisers.
‘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
A year of reflection: 1975-2025 - From Darkness to Light
Organisers noted that in 2025, Cambodia will solemnly observe the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power.
CIFF is dedicating a special programme titled 1975-2025: From Darkness to Light in Cambodia’s Story, which will feature films and documentaries that chronicle the devastating impact of the Khmer Rouge and explore the country’s recovery.
This programme aims to educate future generations and provide a platform for discussion on justice, historical memory and reconciliation.
New voices in Cambodian cinema
The festival will also showcase Vakhim, a deeply personal documentary that tells the story of Vakhim, a Cambodian-born child adopted at the age of four and raised in Rome.
Now 18, Vakhim returns to Cambodia with his adoptive parents to reconnect with his roots.
This film offers an intimate exploration of family, identity, and the emotional complexities of being part of the Cambodian diaspora.
In addition, the Stories in Cambodia section will present Tenement, a powerful Cambodian film by Sokyou Chea and Inrasothythep Neth, which explores the struggles of urban life in Phnom Penh.
A celebration of women’s strength
CIFF 2025 also highlights women’s stories through the Women Unbound: Stories from Every Corner programme. This series celebrates the strength and transformative power of women across cultures and continents.
One standout film is Mother, There's a Star in Me, which follows the journey of an all-female drumming band in Cambodia.
The documentary showcases the band members' resilience and determination to pursue their passion for music while navigating the societal challenges they face.
