Eliza Kaye Foster

Title of Film: First They Killed My Father

Year of release: 2017
Language of original film: Khmer
Director: Angelina Jolie                                                                                                    
Actors: Sreymoch Sareum, Kompheak Phoeung, Socheata Sveng
 
 Give a brief plot summary. DO NOT plagiarize from the web!

First They Killed My Father is a movie based on a book about the Cambodian genocide
from 1975-1979. The story is from the perspective of a five year-old girl and her
experiences during this horrific time. The Khmer Rouge forces the girl, Loung, and her
family from their home into the countryside with many others. The family is then
separated when all six children are sent to different labor camps. Loung becomes a
soldier to fight in the Khmer Reigme. In the end, individuals who survived are reunited
after the war is over.
 
 Analyze the social and philosophical issues the film deals with (1). Make sure you
include the point of view of the movie (what attitude does the movie take toward
the issues addressed) (1), the social/historical context (1) of the movie,
what audience the movie is targeting, and why. (1) In other words, you should
address and reflect upon the “argument” or “meaning” of the work. This should
be analysis, not just summary of issues in the movie. (4 total for this question)

This film addresses war and the lasting effects of it. The point of view this film takes is
very sober and realistic. The film does not glamorize war or what happened during this
time. It depicts desperation, pain, fear, and hopelessness. This movie is based off a true
account of someone who endured the Cambodian genocide. It represents her point of
view and what she experienced during this time. The target audience of this film is
everyone. It is a hard to watch but real story that helps us understand history.

 What is your response to the message of the film? (1) Why do you respond this way?
(1) Show that you are reflecting on your own thinking here and
the biases/assumptions about the world you bring to your viewing. (2)  Did the film
change the way you view the subject? Why, or why not? (1)   (5 total for this
question)

The film helps viewers realize the tragedy that occurred. The message of the film is to
educate. It also evokes respect for individuals and their families who endured through
this time. Before traveling to Cambodia with the group YouthLinc in 2016, I was advised
to read the book, First They Killed My Father. After going to Cambodia, researching the
history of Cambodia, and reading First They Killed My Father as well as other books, I
have gained a respect for the horrific time so many individuals had to go through.
Watching the movie reminded me of the things I saw and felt in Cambodia. I was also
reminded of the feelings I had when going to Tuol Sleng(Security Prison 21) and the
Killing Fields. This movie made the history of Cambodia so much more real.

 What cultural differences did you notice in the film (philosophical outlook, humor,
architecture, customs, clothes, cities, weather, food, music, dancing, lifestyles, etc.)?
What did you learn about history, economics or politics? (There are always
differences; look for them). (2)

This is a bit difficult to answer because during the Khmer regime, individuals were
essentially stripped of any culture or individuality they had. The Khmer Rouge under
the influence of Pol Pot forced the Cambodian people to dye their clothes black, all
personal possessions were taken, and individuals were required to work in fields to
provide for the people and were told, “Angkor will provide for them.”

Cambodia has some cultural differences from America. They have a traditional dress
and dances. They also have food that is popular, even sacred. Buddhism is the
predominant religion in Cambodia. The temples of Angkor Wat are also in this country
which influence the culture.

 What techniques did the filmmaker use that were different from what you see in the
films you normally watch? Think about lighting, dialogue, camera work, setting,
and/ or music. How did these elements affect your response to the film? (2)

The film was in Khmer. This was different than most movies I watch. I turned on the
subtitles in English so I could understand what was being said. It took a little time for
me to adjust to this. The film also had harsh lighting. It was either extremely bright or
very dark. I think this was done on purpose to keep the viewers attention and to help
show the extremes during this time.

 Discuss how what you saw in the film relates to one of the assigned readings or class
discussions we have had. Be specific!  (2)

This film relates to oppression. These people were stripped of everything and were
forced to do things that went against their views. In class we talked about different
oppressed and tormented groups some included black individuals and individuals of
the LGBTQ+.

 Why do you think I assign an international film? (2)

I think watching international films can help us get out of a singular way of thinking. It
allows us to see different parts of the world and understand different cultures and
groups of people. I really enjoyed this assignment because I have being meaning to
watch this movie for months and finally did it.