Center for Asian American Media

Nearly 30 years ago, Pol Pot overtook Cambodia and more than one million people perished in the Khmer Rouge’s brutal “killing fields.” Many others were forced into unspeakable acts in order to survive; Arn Chorn Pond is one of these survivors. Now, after living in the United States for 20 years, Arn is a musician and activist, traveling the country and giving lectures on human rights. He is also on a mission to reconcile the demons of his past.

THE FLUTE PLAYER chronicles his return to Cambodia, where he has launched a master musician project to revive the traditional music that disappeared under the Khmer Rouge. A complex and moving film, it reveals the history and tradition lost to Arn’s generation and the search for healing and forgiveness in a country wounded by war.

“Highly recommended...wrenching.”

- Chicago Reader

“...this poignant documentary has a liberating effect as a musician helps to save the indigenous music of Cambodia, nearly wiped out by the Khmer Rouge.”

- Christian Science Monitor

“...a powerful reminder of the resiliency of the human spirit.”

- Film Threat

Awards
Audience Award, Documentary First Film, South by Southwest Film Festival
Emmy Award Nomination for Outstanding Cultural and Artistic Programming

Recognition
Human Rights Watch International Film Festival
San Francisco Imternational Asian American Film Festival
IFP Los Angeles Film Festival
Seattle International Film Festival
National PBS Broadcast, POV

Additional Resources
Film website »
Study Guide (pdf) »

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