Cambodia, with its rich history and complex socio-political landscape, provides a unique backdrop for thrilling cinematic experiences. This curated list of 10 films showcases the diverse storytelling and suspenseful narratives that have emerged from this Southeast Asian nation. Whether it's exploring the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge, delving into modern-day crime, or uncovering hidden secrets, these films offer a thrilling journey through Cambodia's cinematic landscape, providing both entertainment and insight into the country's culture and history.

The Killing Fields (1984)
Description: While not entirely set in Cambodia, this film captures the harrowing experiences of a Cambodian journalist during the Khmer Rouge regime, blending historical drama with thriller elements.
Fact: It won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Haing S. Ngor, who himself survived the Khmer Rouge.


The Scent of Green Papaya (1993)
Description: Though primarily a drama, this film has thriller elements as it follows a young servant girl in 1950s Saigon, whose life is intertwined with the political turmoil of the time.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


The Missing Picture (2013)
Description: This documentary-thriller uses clay figures to recreate the director's memories of the Khmer Rouge regime, offering a chilling insight into Cambodia's dark past.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, making it the first Cambodian film to receive such recognition.


Enemies of the People (2009)
Description: This documentary thriller follows two former Khmer Rouge leaders as they confront their past, providing a gripping narrative of guilt, remorse, and the search for truth.
Fact: The film won the World Cinema Documentary Editing Award at the Sundance Film Festival.


First They Killed My Father (2017)
Description: Directed by Angelina Jolie, this film recounts the harrowing experiences of a young girl during the Khmer Rouge regime, offering a personal and intense look at Cambodia's tragic history.
Fact: The film was co-written by Loung Ung, whose memoir it is based on, ensuring authenticity in its portrayal of events.


The Gate (2014)
Description: Set in Phnom Penh, this thriller explores the life of a young woman who discovers a hidden gate leading to a world of secrets and danger.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in Cambodia, showcasing the vibrant yet mysterious atmosphere of the city.


Diamond Island (2016)
Description: A coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of a rapidly developing Cambodia, this film blends elements of drama and thriller as a young man navigates love and identity.
Fact: It was the first Cambodian film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival's Critics' Week.


The Last Reel (2014)
Description: This film follows a young woman who discovers an old film reel that leads her on a quest to uncover the truth about her family's past during the Khmer Rouge era.
Fact: The film was part of the official selection at the Busan International Film Festival.


The Road (2011)
Description: A gripping tale of a man's journey through Cambodia's countryside, where he encounters various characters and uncovers dark secrets.
Fact: The film was shot in real locations across Cambodia, giving it an authentic feel.


The Lost City of Gold (2016)
Description: A treasure hunt thriller set in the jungles of Cambodia, where adventurers seek a legendary lost city rumored to be filled with gold.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life legends of hidden treasures in Cambodia.
