Moonlight Cambodia Outdoor Cinema: Illuminating The Kingdom’s Cultural Landscape
A unique venture called Moonlight Cambodia is casting a light on the country’s rich cultural tapestry, one outdoor film screening at a time. Jem, the visionary founder of Moonlight Cambodia, an outdoor cinema provider, has transformed his profound connection with Cambodia into an innovative business that not only entertains but educates and unites communities. His journey from a curious visitor to a cultural entrepreneur reveals a deep-seated passion for Cambodian cinema and its potential to inspire, heal, educate and entertain.
From Visitor to Visionary
Jem’s love affair with Cambodia began over two decades ago, amidst the ancient allure of Angkor Wat and the untouched beauty of Otres Beach in Sihanoukville alongside his adventures into rural areas. His love for the people and country grow over numerous visits yet after a serious illness when in the UK, he had a moment of clarity in life and the birth of Moonlight Cambodia in 2014. Jem’s mission was clear: to introduce outdoor cinema to Cambodia and showcase the nation’s emerging cinematic film industry and its heritage in the form of outdoor cinema, which had been lost by Cambodia’s tragic past.
A Screen Under the Stars
Since its inception, Moonlight Cambodia has evolved from a novel idea into a cultural institution, hosting screenings for a diverse audience and clientele ranging from private individuals and hotels, to free screenings for the general public in rural communities on behalf of NGOs to International film festivals both in Cambodia and Laos. Jem was recently instrumental in Matt Dillion returning to Cambodia after 20 years to screen his film “City Of Ghosts’ in Kampot.
Jem’s dream was not merely to create a business but to foster a space where Cambodian cinema and films could thrive and tell their own stories. To this end Jem has supported numerous Cambodian directors and events, sometimes at a financial loss to himself.
One of Moonlight Cambodia’s crowning achievements was the nationwide tour in 2015, sponsored by USAID and the Documentation Center Cambodia (DCCam), featuring “Don’t Think I’ve Forgotten: Cambodia’s Lost Rock and Roll” by John Pirozzi. This documentary highlighted Cambodia’s vibrant music scene before the Khmer Rouge regime’s devastation. The screenings, attended by hundreds to thousands, were not just film showings but a communal experience of rediscovery and remembrance. They were a testament to the power of cinema to bridge the past with the present, allowing Cambodians to reclaim their cultural identity.
At its core, Moonlight Cambodia is more than just an outdoor cinema. It is a vehicle for cultural preservation, education as well as for entertainment. “We relish the challenge of going into rural communities with small NGO’s to help deliver their message. It’s a powerful medium and the local communities love what we do.”
Beyond Entertainment: A Cultural Mission
Despite the successes, Jem acknowledges the challenges ahead. “We appreciate the need to ensure our equipment is constantly maintained and upgraded to ensure the best possible screening experience whether it’s for a film festival or rural community. With the quality of our equipment this is not cheap, yet we consistently do it”. Unfortunately NGOs and festival organisers budgets are often limited and therefore we often work for very little. ‘Unfortunately the licensing complexities have threatened the sustainability of commercial ventures, which is a shame. Yet, the focus remains on finding viable solutions, such as securing corporate sponsorships and partnerships, to continue showcasing both Khmer and international cinema and contributing to the Cambodia film industry’s growth.
Moonlight Cambodia commitment to community benefits is evident in its plans to host more local events, and making cultural, education and outdoor cinematic entertainment accessible to a broader audience. The recent free European Film Festival at Coconut Park is another step towards this goal, emphasising educational films alongside independent films over blockbusters to enrich viewers’ knowledge and appreciation of European cultures.
Moonlight Cambodia stands as a beacon of cultural enlightenment, driven by Jem’s unwavering passion and vision. It exemplifies the transformative power of cinema, not just as a form of entertainment but as a medium for education, unity, and cultural preservation. As Moonlight Cambodia continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, its impact on Cambodia’s cultural landscape remains a source of inspiration for all who value the arts and the stories they tell.
Moonlight Cambodia can be contacted via:
Tel/Telegram +85593218956
Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
