Kon Khmer Koun Khmer (Khmer Cinema, Khmer Generations)

Consisting of 60 individuals from all walks of life, Kon Khmer Koun Khmer (Khmer Films, Khmer Generations) has shaken Cambodia since the production of a 45-minute film that was later screened at several places, including its premiere at Cinema Lux, one of the last remaining movie theatres in Phnom Penh that once witnessed the premieres of many films produced by the King-Father Norodom Sihanouk.
Established in early 2009, Kon Khmer Koun Khmer was founded by Mr. Davy Chou, a self-taught film-maker and the sole instructor of the team, who took full initiative to ensure the work progressed smoothly. All of the individuals are mostly from local universities such as Royal University of Phnom Penh, Royal University of Fine Arts, Limkokwing University, a French school (Lycee Decartes), Mith Samlanh organization and many more.
The young Cambodians from these institutes were gathered by Davy Chou to do something creative and dynamic together, proving that the young generation has not forgotten the rich history of cinema tied to their cultural roots. After spending nearly six months of intensive training alongside Davy Chou, Kon Khmer Koun Khmer proudly completed “Twin Diamonds”; the first film in Cambodia produced entirely by students. In September of 2009, “Twin Diamonds” opened to a packed house at Cinema Lux.
In October of 2009, Kon Khmer Koun Khmer initiated an exhibition which aimed to revive the fond memories of Cambodian films produced during the 1960ʼs and 1970ʼs. The Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979 had destroyed the majority of documents and original films, but the concentrated efforts of Kon Khmer Koun Khmer helped bring the few surviving film-makers, actors and actresses back together and into the spotlight. The 9 daysʼ exhibition received very positive responses from local as well as foreign press who were eager to find out what cinema in Cambodia during this time period was like. Cambodians, young and old, were enthusiastic about the event, and the great excitement it generated has encouraged Kon Khmer Koun Khmer to continue their mission.
The youth involved in the construction of the exhibition were comprised of an art group (photographers, architects and artists), communication team, designing team and the management team.
Kon Khmer Koun Khmer has retained its high hopes to be the first of a new generation of Cambodians to restore the successful film industry as well as the civilized culture Cambodia used to have. The team continues to attract new members, and by remaining open to anyone with a passion for art, the goals for cultural renewal will be passed on to subsequent generations.
K.K.