Cambodia & International Film Festival: ‘Mother There's Star in Me’, a powerful tribute to resilience and empowerment

In a fascinating documentary, ‘Mother There's Star in Me’ by Benjamin Rigley and and Sreymom Mab, the spotlight shines on Medha, an all-female Cambodian percussion group distinguished by its resilience and ability to take charge of its own destiny.

Medha

The film not only showcases the group's impressive performances, but also delves into their daily lives, highlighting their struggles with societal norms and their fight for women's rights.

Medha, whose members include single mothers, use music as a transformative force, demonstrating that art can challenge traditional roles and give voice to marginalised voices. Through Rigley's lens, the documentary explores the hereditary nature of music and the role it plays in enabling these women to pursue their passions despite adversity.

The film is part of a wider cultural initiative at the Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF), which celebrates international cinema and promotes Cambodian productions around the world. ‘Mother There's Star in Me’ offers a compelling narrative that resonates by highlighting universal themes of resilience and the power of creative expression.

Focusing on Medha's journey, Rigley's documentary offers a moving reflection on the challenges faced by women in Cambodia and the transformative impact of music on their lives. It is a testament to the strength and determination of these women who, through their art, inspire change and challenge the expectations of wider society.

The Medha group, as an all-female Cambodian percussion ensemble, has since its inception faced a number of obstacles common to women working in traditionally male-dominated fields in Cambodia. Women are often expected to fulfil traditional roles such as running the household and bringing up children.

Pursuing a career in music, particularly in a male-dominated field such as drumming, can be seen as unconventional and meet with hostility from family or community members.

Also, women working in male-dominated fields often face stigmatisation and scepticism about their abilities.

This can lead to a lack of recognition and support for their work. Financial stability can be an important issue. Women sometimes have to balance their passion for music with the need to support themselves and their families, which can be difficult in a field where income is limited.

It can be difficult to balance traditional cultural practices with modernisation and innovation. The group may be forced to maintain traditional styles while adapting to contemporary tastes and expectations.

These challenges highlight the resilience and determination that women like those in the Medha group need to pursue their passion for music in a society where traditional norms are very strong.

Festival Programme