13th Cambodia International Film Festival set to wow audiences with a spectacular showcase of global cinema

The 13th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) is set to take centre stage as Cambodia's largest and most prestigious international cultural event, offering a captivating mosaic of cinematic brilliance from around the world.

This year's official CIFF poster features the captivating artwork "Nature and Smile" (2022) by Cambodian painter Chan Dany. The work is made from coloured pencil shavings on wood and measures 110 x 80 cm. "Nature and Smile depicts a serene human face, reminiscent of Buddha, surrounded by intricately designed climbing plants inspired by Khmer-style Kbach motifs.

From 25 to 30 June 2024, the 13th CIFF will showcase an extraordinary selection of over 140 films from more than 40 countries, including a range of short and feature films, documentaries and animation.

This year’s festival promises to be an unparalleled cinematic journey with over 140 screenings and events, all free of charge at major cinemas and prestigious venues in Phnom Penh.

Among the esteemed venues hosting the festival are Legend Cinemas, Major Cineplex, French Institute, Bophana Center, Rosewood Hotel Phnom Penh, CJCC and Fable Cinema, providing a diverse and inclusive platform for film enthusiasts and creators to come together and celebrate the art of storytelling through film. There will be free admission for the public to enjoy the films.

The festival kicks off with a red carpet Opening Ceremony at the esteemed Chaktomuk Theatre on 25 June, with Chris G Parkhurst’s ELVIS OF CAMBODIA as the opening film, setting the stage for a week-long celebration of cinematic excellence and vibrant storytelling styles from around the world. The Closing Ceremony, scheduled for 30 June 2024 at the same venue, will serve as the festival’s triumphant culmination, honouring the outstanding contributions of filmmakers and artists from around the world.

CIFF Official Poster Artwork

This year’s official CIFF poster features the captivating artwork "Nature and Smile" (2022) by Cambodian painter Chan Dany. The work is made from coloured pencil shavings on wood and measures 110 × 80 cm. "Nature and Smile” depicts a serene human face, reminiscent of Buddha, surrounded by intricately designed climbing plants inspired by Khmer-style Kbach motifs.

Through this artwork, Chan Dany evokes the harmony and serenity found in nature, symbolising the ideal or power of Buddha, known as Baramey. His meticulous technique using pencil shavings and glue requires patience and attention to detail, inviting viewers to adopt the Buddha’s method of slow observation in appreciating nature, especially trees.

Chan Dany’s work reflects his commitment to reinterpreting ancient Khmer cultural forms within the context of contemporary Cambodia. By merging traditional ornamental codes and mythological figures with innovative materials and techniques, he preserves aesthetic and moral values while embracing change and experimentation.

We are proud to use his artwork for this year’s CIFF cover in partnership with @STPCambodia and credit the artist Chan Dany: www.facebook.com/chandanycontemporaryart

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Admission

Admission is FREE on a first come first served

Tickets are available 1 hour before each screening at CIFF counters on site

Information & Contact

The detailed program, schedule, and information on events and special guests will be released online:

https://cambodiaiff.com/

https://www.facebook.com/cambodiaiff/