Cinemata, a video platform that advocates for socially relevant films across the Asia-Pacific, is promoting the 13th Chaktomuk Short Film Festival (CSFF), set to take place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from October 25 to 28, 2024. Known for showcasing emerging talent and regional storytelling, CSFF has become one of Southeast Asia’s premier platforms for independent short films.
This year’s festival promises a rich selection of films across various competition and showcase categories, featuring both local Cambodian films and international entries. Some of the highlights include the Cambodian and International Competitions,and specialised showcases such as the Cambodian Documentary Showcase and the New Asian Filmmakers Cambodia Showcase, among others.
Attendees can look forward to a wide range of genres, including drama, horror, and thriller. CSFF’s Local Programmer Eam Tith Seiha expressed excitement over this year’s selections, noting the improved production quality and growing diversity of genres, especially thrillers, which has led to the introduction of a new Thriller Showcase.
Mr. Glenn Ala, Commercial Content Producer and Advisor to CSFF 2024, noted the bold and thought-provoking themes explored in this year’s films. “This year’s selection of short films is a bold exploration into the human experience, tackling themes that people would normally shy away from—domestic abuse, violence, emotional and psychological trauma, death, loss, isolation, and ostracism,” Ala said. He added that this evolution in content is a testament to how Cambodian filmmaking is maturing as an art form that entertains, inspires conversation, and invites reflection.
Screenings will take place in-person at Legend Cinema, Fable Cinema, Major Cineplex – Sorya, and Cine Hub for four days, with an opening ceremony on October 25, 2024 and a closing awards ceremony on October 28.
Cinemata is proud to promote this year’s CSFF. By supporting local and international filmmakers and film initiatives, Cinemata continues its mission of amplifying independent voices and diverse narratives in the region.
This year’s screenings are not to be missed, as CSFF continues to highlight the power of short films in Cambodia and beyond. Check out the festival’s schedule, film lineup, and updates on the official CSFF website and Facebook page.