The European Film Festival Cambodia returns to Phnom Penh for ten days, from Feb. 17 to 26, 2023 offering a wide range of films ranging from inspirational drama and uplifting comedy to chilling true crime and heart-warming fantasy.

According to a press release, hosted by the European Union Delegation to Cambodia, this year’s festival will take place at four locations across the city – Aeon 1 Mall’s Major Cineplex theatre, French Institute, Meta House and Bophana Centre, – and features a collection of films from more than 20 countries.

With 26 feature films, two short film events and other unique activities, this year’s European Film Festival Cambodia brings European cinema and insights from industry insiders to the public.

“I’ve always found the craft of filmmaking to be mesmerising,” said Cambodian actress, Kosamak San. “I want to see the gathering of filmmakers from Europe to share and showcase their works and the beauty of filmmaking.”

Setting the stage for ten days of screenings will be a pre-event panel discussion on Tuesday, Feb. 14 at Phnom Penh’s French Institute, where Kosamak will be joined by other film industry professionals; Ines Sothea, Cedric Eloy, Jimmy Henderson, and Nicolas Sacré.

The panel will examine cross-cultural collaboration and what this means for Cambodia’s next generation of movie makers. The event will also provide context and insights on the impacts of foreign film festivals and examine what makes cinema such a transcendent medium for profound cultural exchange and conclude with a Q&A session.

“Cinema has an amazing power because it can showcase things very precisely, with image and sound,” said Nicolas Sacré, dean of Phnom Penh’s PSE film school. “It opens our eyes and our minds to global situations and helps us understand the world better.”

With the tone set for the week, Ukrainian film, Mother of Apostles, will kick off screenings on Feb. 17 at the French Institute’s garden.

Source: Agency Kampuchea Press