This morning I had the opportunity to pre-screen the film Out of the Poison Tree, made by Beth Pielert, the daughter of Fairfield University professor, Gail Ostrow. This film documents a Cambodian-American family's quest to find out what became of their father during the genocide perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge. The documentary takes the viewer on a trip back to Cambodia on the eve of the long-delayed U.N. tribunal.
This movie is very well made, with great camera work and captivating sound. After having read Lucky Child, it was the closest I could come to visiting Loung's homeland without traveling myself. Hopefully, we'll be able to show this film in the Library when you arrive on campus this fall. I think you will find it remarkable.
Because of this film, I have learned about the Landmine Relief Fund and a dedicated Cambodian named Aki Ra who tirelessly removes landmines so his country will be safe for his people. He and his wife have adopted some 20 children maimed or orphaned by landmines. Learn more at Landmine Relief Fund.
Ramona Islam, Senior Reference Librarian & Instruction Coordinator
What films would you recommend to raise awareness of genocide or land mines? Join the conversation by clicking on the Comments link.
I highly recommend New Year Baby by Socheata Poeuv.
The film is directed and produced by Khmer-American Poeuv and follows her on her search to understand her family, missing family and history. It is by far the best documentary on the Cambodian story I've ever seen, and I've seen many.
Loung Ung
Socheata Poeuv
Director
Broken English Productions
917-538-9644
soch@brokenenglishprod.com
www.newyearbaby.net
Posted by: Loung Ung | August 27, 2007 at 05:16 PM