Kampot, Cambodia Hosts Open-Air Screening of City of Ghosts with Matt Dillon
What a thrill it was to welcome the renowned American actor Matt Dillon to the tranquil town of Kampot, Cambodia. Known for his iconic roles and cinematic brilliance, Dillon’s visit brought a touch of Hollywood glamour to this charming riverside destination.
Born on 18th February 1964, Matt Dillon has enjoyed a stellar career, earning accolades including an Academy Award nomination and a Grammy nod. He first captured hearts as a teen idol in films like Over the Edge (1979), My Bodyguard (1980), and The Outsiders (1983), before solidifying his place as a versatile actor and director.
Dillon’s connection with Cambodia began in 1992 when a spontaneous detour led him to this captivating country. Originally planning to visit Thailand, the Golden Triangle, and Vietnam, he instead found himself drawn to Cambodia’s unique charm. This serendipitous journey inspired him to direct his first feature film, City of Ghosts, a gripping crime thriller about a con artist navigating the complexities of an insurance scam in Cambodia.
City of Ghosts
A Cinematic Love Letter to Cambodia
Filmed in stunning locations across Phnom Penh and the historic Bokor Hill in Kampot, City of Ghosts showcases Cambodia’s raw beauty and cultural depth. Dillon not only directed and co-wrote the film but also starred in it, bringing his vision to life with authenticity and passion. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2002 and was released in the United States on 25th April 2003.
During his recent visit, Dillon hosted a private screening of City of Ghosts in Phnom Penh followed by an engaging Q&A session. He shared fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, particularly about filming on Bokor Mountain, which captivated the audience.
The Resurgence of Cambodia’s Film Industry
Cambodia’s film industry once flourished in the 1960s and early 1970s but was tragically dismantled during the Khmer Rouge regime. Over the past 15 years, however, the industry has been steadily rebuilding, showcasing the country’s rich talent and storytelling potential. Dillon, this year’s patron of the Cambodian International Film Festival (CIFF), expressed his excitement about the industry’s progress, highlighting its bright future.
Iconic Films and Documentaries Set in Cambodia
Cambodia’s cinematic landscape has also been shaped by other notable works, such as Angelina Jolie’s First They Killed My Father (2017), based on Loung Ung’s harrowing memoir of survival during the Khmer Rouge era. This poignant film is a must-watch, though viewers should keep tissues handy.
Another gem is John Pirozzi’s documentary Don’t Think I’ve Forgotten, which explores Cambodia’s vibrant rock music scene of the 1960s and 1970s. The film pays tribute to the artists lost during the genocide, blending heartbreak with celebration.
Documentaries
A Night to Remember in Kampot
One of the highlights of Dillon’s visit was the open-air screening of City of Ghosts on Kampot’s picturesque riverfront. Watching the film under the stars, with Dillon himself in attendance, was a magical experience. Reflecting on his love for Cambodia, Dillon once said, “Cambodia remains an important place for me as I made my first film here.”
Filming City of Ghosts over 20 years ago was no small feat. Dillon had to bring most of his equipment and crew from abroad, starting virtually from scratch. Despite its challenges, the film’s authenticity and rawness resonate deeply, capturing the essence of Cambodia.
Behind the Scenes
Local Talent and Expat Stories
During production, Dillon enlisted locals, expats, and even backpackers as extras. One such local was Snow (Ian), who shared his memories over a cold beer. “Matt Dillon is a real good bloke, no bullshit … quite patient. He loves Cambodia,” Snow recalled. His role as an erratic brothel customer added a touch of local flavour to the film.
Snow later opened Maxine’s, a legendary bar that became a Kampot institution. Though its remote location made it a challenge to reach, it was a beloved spot for many.
Remembering Kem Sereyvuth – Sok
One of the film’s standout local actors was Kem Sereyvuth, who played Sok, Dillon’s cyclo driver. Sereyvuth’s natural talent and charisma left a lasting impression on Dillon, and the two remained lifelong friends. Sadly, Sereyvuth passed away last October, but his legacy lives on through his family and his contributions to Cambodian cinema.
Takeaway
Exploring Cambodia Through Books
If you would like to know more about Cambodia and its history, please read these books.
The first book is by a Cambodian author. Chenda Keo. He discovered that human trafficking was a serious social problem that needed to be urgently and effectively addressed. He began his work by interviewing 17 trafficked children. Surprisingly he found that none of these children considered themselves trafficking victims.
The second book was written by my lovely friend Kate. Who sadly recently passed, due to an illness.
- A book about human trafficking: Human Trafficking in Cambodia by Chenda Keo
- A book about Cambodia: Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
- A book about the history of Cambodia: A History of Cambodia by David Chandler
- A book from a Pulitzer prize-winning journalist: Cambodia’s Curse: The Modern History of a Troubled Land by Joel Brinkley
- A book about a younger trained as a soldier for the Khmer Rouge: First They Killed My Father
- A book about being in S-21, the prison during the Khmer Rouge: A Cambodian Prison Portrait by Vann Nath
- A book about the leader of the Khmer Rouge: Pol Pot: Anatomy of a Nightmare by Philip Short
- A book about a survivor of the Cambodian holocaust: Survival in the Killing Fields Haing Ngor
- A book about two sisters reuniting after the Khmer Rouge: Lucky Child by Loung Ung
- A book about surviving under the Khmer Rouge: When Broken Glass Floats by Chanrithy Him
Final Thoughts
Matt Dillon’s visit to Kampot was a celebration of cinema, culture, and community. From the open-air screening of City of Ghosts to his heartfelt reflections on Cambodia’s film industry, the event was a testament to the enduring allure of this remarkable country. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveller seeking inspiration, Cambodia’s stories will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Explore more about Cambodia’s cinematic journey and plan your visit to Kampot today!
