Loung Ung

I want to be brave. I want to be a soldier, to protect my family.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

What is it like to have no more family, no more home?

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

They say we must forget our past. But how can we forget the ones we love?

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Sometimes, you have to do things you never thought you would.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

I learned to survive, but at what cost?

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

The lines between good and evil blur in times of war.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Every night, I search the stars, hoping to find my family.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to fight even when you’re terrified.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

I am just a child, lost in a world of adults who forgot how to love.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

I want to remember my country for what it was, not what it became.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Pain can tear you apart, but it can also build you stronger.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Forgiveness is not forgetting. It's letting go of the hurt.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

We are survivors; our stories need to be told.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Hope is a flickering light in the darkness, never let it die.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

War takes everything away from you, but it cannot take your spirit.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

The silence after the screams is what haunts me the most.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

Every tear I shed is a promise to never forget.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

There are battles we fight not with weapons but with our hearts.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

I will not let their memories fade into nothing.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

What makes us human is our ability to love, even amidst hate.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

We are shaped by our experiences, but we are not defined by them.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

The future belongs to those who have the courage to dream.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive
Loung Ung

We must rise like the lotus from the mud, stronger and more beautiful.

Loung Ung

First They Killed My Father, Reelive

Sugar Man

Sugar Man by Sixto Rodriguez, Played during a pivotal emotional moment in the film

Someday

Someday by The Hush Sound, Used in a reflective scene


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The Day of the Arrest

In this heart-wrenching scene, Loung’s family becomes victims of the Khmer Rouge’s regime. The military bursts into their home, shattering their peaceful life. Loung, a young girl, watches in horror as her father is taken away. This moment is filled with chaotic sounds, a heart-thumping score, and Loung’s innocent yet terrified expressions, capturing the brutality of the event. The aftermath leaves Loung and her family in disarray, marking the beginning of their struggle for survival.

Context: This scene establishes the violent takeover by the Khmer Rouge and sets the course for Loung's transformation. It portrays the loss of innocence and the destruction of a family, emphasizing the film’s theme of survival amidst violence.

The Stripping of Identity

As the Khmer Rouge enforces their brutal regime, Loung and her family are forced to abandon their old life and identity. They are made to wear bland, similar clothes and cut their hair short. This moment captures the loss of individuality, as Loung looks in the mirror, struggling to recognize herself. The colors are muted and the environment feels claustrophobic, amplifying her feelings of despair.

Context: This scene highlights how the regime seeks to erase personal identities and instill conformity, representing the broader themes of loss and dehumanization.

Reunion with Mother

Loung desperately searches for her mother after being separated during the chaos. When they finally reunite, the emotions overflow. Loung runs into her mother’s arms in a poignant embrace filled with longing and relief. The camera lingers on their tearful faces, capturing a powerful moment of love that surpasses the horror surrounding them.

Context: The reunion emphasizes familial bonds and the strength of love in dire circumstances, reinforcing the theme of family that runs throughout the film.

The First Meal

Loung and her family share a meager meal after their ordeal. The simple act of eating takes on profound significance as they acknowledge what they’ve lost and the uncertainty of their future. The atmosphere is heavy with silence and shared glances, reflecting their inner turmoil.

Context: This scene represents hope in the face of adversity and the importance of family support, highlighting the film’s focus on survival.

The Work Camps

In a relentless scene, Loung and other children are forced into grueling labor at a work camp. The sound of whips cracking, orders barked, and the sight of exhausted children captures the horror of their reality. Loung collapses under the weight of expectation, and her expression shows her growing hopelessness.

Context: This brutal scene underscores the harsh realities of the Khmer Rouge regime and deepens the audience’s understanding of the tyranny experienced by the Cambodian people.

Loss of Innocence

Loung witnesses the execution of a fellow inmate. The moment is shockingly quiet, with the camera focusing on Loung’s horrified face, reflecting her loss of childhood innocence. The juxtaposition of her wide eyes against the scene of violence amplifies the emotional impact.

Context: This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in Loung's character development, representing the harsh reality that children faced during this dark period.

The Farewell to a Friend

When Loung’s friend is taken away, the emotional weight of their farewell is palpable. They exchange heartfelt goodbyes, their faces etched with fear and uncertainty about the future. The camera captures every tender moment, making it feel like time stands still.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of loss that recurs throughout the film. It highlights the fragile connections formed amidst chaos.

A Brief Moment of Joy

A fleeting scene of Loung and her siblings playing despite their harsh surroundings reminds viewers of the resilience of childhood. Their laughter forms a stark contrast to the grim reality they live in, offering a moment of pure joy.

Context: This moment showcases the enduring spirit of children, reinforcing the film’s exploration of hope and survival against all odds.

The Encounter with a Soldier

When Loung comes face to face with a soldier, the tension is palpable. She stands frozen, her heart racing, as the soldier’s gaze pierces through her. The moment is tense, filled with dread, as she fears for her life yet feels powerless.

Context: This scene encapsulates the constant threat of danger that looms over the characters, showcasing the oppressive environment of fear and uncertainty that defines their existence.

The Moment of Betrayal

In a heartbreaking twist, one character betrays another, leading to devastating consequences. Loung’s expression shifts from trust to shock in an instant, reflecting the betrayal's deep emotional impact. The camera captures the moment in slow motion, emphasizing the gravity of the act.

Context: This scene illustrates the harsh realities of survival, highlighting the theme of betrayal that can arise in desperate circumstances.

A Glimpse of Hope

One night, Loung looks up at the stars, finding solace in their beauty. The scene is beautifully shot, with soft lighting creating a serene contrast to her turbulent life. This is a moment of introspection and hope amidst despair.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of hope and the human spirit's resilience, providing a brief respite from the horrors surrounding Loung.

A Father's Memory

Loung recalls her father’s teachings, and a montage of flashbacks showcases their once-happy life together. The nostalgic music swells as memories of laughter and love fill the screen, contrasting sharply with her present hardship.

Context: This pivotal moment connects the past and present, illustrating the enduring impact of Loung’s father on her identity and strength.

Facing Her Fears

In a powerful moment of bravery, Loung confronts a soldier who threatens her. She stands her ground, refusing to show fear. This scene is imbued with tension, portraying her growth and resilience as a character.

Context: This moment marks an important turning point for Loung as she learns to find her voice, reinforcing her journey from vulnerability to strength.

The Burden of Memory

Loung sits alone, lost in her thoughts. She grapples with her experiences, and we see the weight of the memories she carries. The close-up of her face reveals a mix of sadness and determination, portraying her internal struggle.

Context: This reflection on memory is vital to understanding Loung’s character and the long-term effects of trauma, enhancing the film’s emotional depth.

In Search of Liberty

During an attempt to escape, Loung and others run through the fields, the setting sun casting a warm glow. This visually stunning scene juxtaposes their hope for freedom with the reality of their situation.

Context: This moment represents the universal yearning for freedom and the human spirit's struggle against oppression, a central theme of the film.

The Harsh Truth Revealed

Loung discovers the fate of her family members as they are revealed to have been killed. The sheer devastation on her face, coupled with the haunting soundtrack, makes this one of the most emotional moments in the film.

Context: This scene is a brutal turning point that deepens the audience’s understanding of loss and the impact of the regime’s terror.

The Last Goodbye

As Loung prepares to say goodbye to her home, she takes a moment to reflect on everything she has lost. The quietness of the scene, alongside her emotional journey, creates a sense of bittersweet closure.

Context: This pivotal moment encapsulates the resilience of the human spirit while acknowledging the painful realities of loss and separation.

Finally Free

The moment Loung leaves the camp and steps into the sunlight symbolizes her newfound freedom. The emotional score rises as she breathes in the fresh air, a stark contrast to the confines of her previous existence.

Context: This moment highlights the film’s themes of survival and resilience, showing that freedom, though hard-won, is possible.

Finding Family

The emotional weight of Loung reuniting with her surviving family members is beautifully captured. Tears of joy flow as they embrace, reaffirming their bond. The music swells, enhancing the joy of reunion.

Context: This scene serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of family and connection, tying back to the film’s central theme.

Reflections of Trauma

In a harrowing scene, Loung talks about her experiences in front of a group, sharing her story. The vulnerability in her voice resonates deeply, as she confronts her past. The camera closes in on her face, highlighting her strength and vulnerability.

Context: This scene is significant for addressing trauma and the importance of storytelling, showcasing Loung’s journey toward healing.

The Healing Process

Loung takes time to help others, offering support and assistance to fellow survivors. Her compassion shines through, and the emotional impact is profound as we see her channel her pain into helping others.

Context: This moment emphasizes the theme of community and healing, showcasing the strength derived from helping each other in times of crisis.

An Unbreakable Spirit

The film concludes with Loung standing resolutely, looking ahead into the future. The camera pulls back, showing the landscape spread out before her, echoing a sense of possibility and hope. The score swells, leaving viewers with a sense of optimism.

Context: This final scene encapsulates the journey of resilience and survival, highlighting Loung’s growth and the enduring strength of the human spirit.


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Angelina Jolie's Personal Connection

Angelina Jolie directed 'First They Killed My Father' to honor the memory of her late mother, who had a strong connection to Cambodia and its culture.

Why it matters: This personal motivation added depth to the film's emotional core, as Jolie's dedication to authentically representing Cambodian history resonated through the film, enhancing its overall impact.

Native Language Authenticity

The film was shot entirely in Khmer, and most of the cast were native speakers, ensuring linguistic authenticity.

Why it matters: Using Khmer not only enriched the film’s authenticity but also allowed Cambodian actors to shine in roles that reflected their heritage, deepening audience engagement with the story.

Casting Non-Actors

The filmmakers cast several non-professional actors, including children from Cambodian refugee camps, to portray characters based on true stories.

Why it matters: Their performances brought genuine emotion and realism to the film, providing a raw perspective of the Khmer Rouge regime that resonated with viewers.

Real-Life Survival Stories

The central character, Loung Ung, based the film on her memoir which recounts her experiences during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Why it matters: The direct adaptation from a survivor’s account ensured a brutally honest depiction of the harrowing events, giving viewers a more profound understanding of that historical period.

Historical Consultation

Jolie worked closely with historians and Cambodian survivors to ensure accurate portrayals of events and cultural details.

Why it matters: This collaboration added layers of credibility to the narrative, helping audiences connect with the historical context while also validating the experiences of survivors.

Filming Locations in Cambodia

The majority of the film was shot in Cambodia, utilizing real locations from the past that hold historical significance.

Why it matters: Filming in authentic locations provided a heartfelt homage to the country’s history, enhancing the visual storytelling with a genuine sense of place.

Challenging Conditions

The crew faced extreme weather conditions during filming, with intense heat and humidity impacting the shooting schedule.

Why it matters: These challenging conditions added a layer of authenticity to the actors’ performances, as they genuinely experienced a fraction of the hardships depicted in the film.

The Role of Music

Composer Marco Beltrami created a poignant score that blends traditional Cambodian music with Western orchestral elements.

Why it matters: The score elevated the emotional weight of key scenes, allowing audiences to feel a deeper connection to the characters’ struggles and triumphs.

Crafting a Child's Perspective

The film is told from the perspective of a child, which was a conscious choice by Jolie to highlight innocence amidst horror.

Why it matters: This perspective shifts the narrative impact, allowing audiences to experience the brutality of war through the eyes of an innocent child, making it more heart-wrenching.

Locations with History

Some filming locations include actual sites where atrocities occurred, like the killing fields.

Why it matters: Shooting in these historically significant places added emotional gravitas to the film, allowing viewers to grapple with the weight of history captured on screen.

Transformation Through Filming

Leading actress Sareum Srey Moch underwent significant personal growth during her time on set, gaining insight into her own family's history with the Khmer Rouge.

Why it matters: Her transformation enriched her performance, adding authenticity to her portrayal as she processed her character’s painful journey.

Volunteer Efforts

Jolie initiated support programs for Cambodian children, directly benefiting from the film's production.

Why it matters: This effort not only provided a tangible legacy for the film but also impacted the community, linking the story’s themes of suffering and resilience to real-world action.

A Unique Approach to Violence

The film's portrayal of violence is understated, with trauma conveyed through the emotional response of characters rather than graphic depictions.

Why it matters: This approach allows the audience to focus on the psychological impact of war, elevating the narrative over gratuitous violence.

Symbolism in Imagery

Many visual motifs in the film represent loss and resilience, such as the recurring imagery of butterflies.

Why it matters: These symbols heighten the emotional resonance of the film's themes, enriching the storytelling experience for viewers who pick up on these subtle cues.

Seasoned Collaborators

Jolie brought in several long-time collaborators, including cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle, to create a cohesive visual style.

Why it matters: This familiar working relationship allowed for a more seamless blend of artistic vision, enhancing the film’s aesthetic and emotional storytelling.

Intensive Script Development

The script underwent extensive revisions, integrated with input from Loung Ung and other survivors to refine the narrative.

Why it matters: This thorough development process ensured that the film remained true to the lived experiences of those who suffered under the regime, making it a profound testament to survival.

Motivating Young Actors

Angelina Jolie created a supportive environment for young actors, using workshops to help them understand their roles emotionally.

Why it matters: This nurturing approach cultivated believable performances from the young cast, contributing significantly to the film's emotional depth.

Cultural Representation

The film highlights traditional Cambodian customs and family values, showcasing a culture that many audiences may not be familiar with.

Why it matters: By foregrounding Cambodian heritage, the film educates viewers and fosters a greater appreciation for cultural diversity amidst a painful historical narrative.

Unconventional Storytelling Techniques

The film employs non-linear storytelling, weaving between moments of peace and chaos, reflecting the character's emotional state.

Why it matters: This structure keeps audiences engaged and forces them to piece together the narrative, mirroring the fragmented memories of a childhood affected by war.

Personal Reflections by Jolie

Angelina Jolie often shared personal stories on set, creating a reflective atmosphere for cast and crew about their roles.

Why it matters: These personal anecdotes helped to deepen the cast's connection to the material, infusing their performances with a layer of sincerity and emotional investment.

An Emotional Final Scene

The final scene was shot with meticulous care to deliver a sense of hope after the turmoil, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

Why it matters: This concluding moment leaves audiences with a mixed sense of sorrow and hope, epitomizing the film's core themes of survival and healing.

Climate Challenges During Production

Filming faced interruptions from the monsoon season, requiring adaptive scheduling and planning.

Why it matters: These interruptions not only tested the crew's resolve but also led to bursts of creative solutions that contributed to the film's authenticity.

Documenting Impact

Production included efforts to document local reactions to the film, ensuring that it resonated with the Cambodian audience.

Why it matters: This focus on local reception emphasizes the filmmakers’ commitment to represent the culture accurately and to honor the memories of those impacted by the Khmer Rouge.

Collaboration with Educators

Jolie collaborated with Cambodian educational institutions to create curriculum materials based on the film.

Why it matters: This initiative signifies a lasting legacy, fostering awareness and education about the Cambodian genocide among future generations.


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