Phnom Penh, June 21, 2024 – During the press conference for the 13th Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF), Director Cedric Eloy announced Dr. Chea Serey, Governor of the National Bank of Cambodia, as the Honorary Patron for CIFF 2024. The festival is set to feature a long-awaited documentary on the iconic Cambodian singer Sin Sisamouth, revered as the Golden Voice of Cambodia and often compared to Elvis Presley.

In an exclusive interview with EAC News, Sin Setsotchhata, the granddaughter of Sin Sisamouth, expressed profound appreciation for the documentary's release at the festival. The film, premiering on the red carpet at Chaktomuk Theater on June 25th, chronicles over a decade of efforts to capture the profound impact of her grandfather’s music on Cambodian culture and its connection to the Cambodian diaspora.

"It’s an honor for my family and the documentary team. It’s been more than 10 years of dedication to bring this story to life. This film is not just about my family or my grandfather but how Cambodian people are connected through music," said Setsotchhata. She hopes the documentary will showcase the cultural bonds music can create and how it intertwines with film and collective memory.

The documentary reveals much about Setsotchhata's family, featuring personal stories including her father Sinn Chanchhaya and brother, both of whom passed away before the film’s completion. “It’s a bit personal but it’s also the first time many will see into my family's life, especially how my grandfather's music has touched those who had to live abroad during the war,” she added.

Setsotchhata also reflected on the broader influence of Cambodia's golden era of music, from the 1950s to the 1970s, which continues to inspire new generations. "I am beyond proud to be part of a family that has contributed so much to Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry. The golden era of music and film is something the world should recognize Cambodia for, not just its dark times," she noted.

The documentary, "Elvis of Cambodia," is part of a broader celebration of Cambodian cinema and culture at the CIFF, which will run from June 25th to 30th, featuring over 120 screenings and events across major venues in Phnom Penh. All events are free to the public, with more details available online.