First They Killed My Father

 First They Killed My Father [2017]

Starring Sareum Srey Moch, Phoeung Kompheak, Mun Kimhak, Sveng Socheata 

Direction by Angelina Jolie 

Based off the novel by Loung Ung 

Language: Khmer 

This was the most singularly harrowing movie that I have ever seen. It is often the case that when famous actresses of celebrities direct movies, they are either awful or missing key elements. Therefore, I was positively shocked when I watched this movie: I found that this movie had so much depth and so much complexity: so much that directors such as Spielberg would envy. 

Firstly, the subject of the movie was so, so interesting. I claim to have a general awareness of the conflict in Cambodia at the time, but after seeing this I realised that there was so much I didn't know. It was so compelling, especially considering that it was filmed from the viewpoint of an innocent child. Seeing the transition of the main family from a life of urban happiness, to migratory distress to agricultural imprisonment was so clear and beautifully done. The movie allowed me to learn about the conflict from a very human angle, rather than learning about it from some dense textbook, which I really enjoyed. 

On the topic of how compelling the subject matter was, I have to place special emphasis on the acting. As is the case with any film where a child is the star, her performance was stellar, especially considering the sensitive subject matter of the film. However, my favourite performance in the movie was that of the mother, Sveng Socheata. There are actually no words so describe how exhilarating it was to watch. Her performance was vulnerable, tender, raw, strong, emotional. Her performance might actually be one of my all-time favourites. I was absolutely obsessed. I am vulnerable to a a strong maternal role in a film, but this was something else entirely. Her work in this film made me sob, which is a rare feat for me. 

The creative interpretation of the book from which it was a base is also a point of real praise. The original piece of literature was written through the perspective of a child, and the film brilliantly brought the innocence, confusion, intensity, and desperation of the confusing situation to light. 

This was one of those movies where you could watch it forever and it would not lose its emotional value. I was stunned by the intensity of the film, and was incredibly humbled by watching it. It was one of those cases where, when a movie finishes, you are left with a profound sense of emptiness, and you appreciate everything you have. 

I often say after my reviews that I recommend watching the movies I have just reviewed, but I have never meant it more than I mean it now. 

13/10