Ferryman of Memories: The Films of Rithy Panh

Ferryman of Memories is a book about Rithy Panh, a Cambodian genocide survivor who found refuge in France and uses film to tell the stories of those who suffered under the Khmer Rouge. His innovative cinema focuses on aesthetics and ethics, and includes nineteen of his award-winning films, such as Rice People, The Land of Wandering Souls, S-21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine, and The Missing Picture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2023
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Rithy Panh, a survivor of the Cambodian genocide, found refuge in France, where he discovered the power of film to convey the tragic experiences of the two million souls who perished under the Khmer Rouge regime. His innovative approach to cinema, known as perpetrator cinema, seeks to humanize those responsible for crimes against humanity, challenging traditional narratives of victimization. Through his work, Panh explores themes of colonialism, globalization, and the refugee crisis, offering profound critiques of these systems.

Ferryman of Memories provides a remarkable insight into the life and work of Rithy Panh, offering a comprehensive exploration of nineteen of his award-winning films. The book delves into the themes and messages conveyed in these films, shedding light on the complexities of human nature, the horrors of war, and the resilience of the human spirit.

One of the standout features of Ferryman of Memories is its access to the director and his work. Author Deirdre Boyle has gained remarkable access to Panh and his team, allowing readers to delve into the creative process behind his films. The book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the production, casting, and editing of Panh's movies, providing a deeper understanding of the artistic choices and influences that shape his work.

Through his films, Rithy Panh has become a voice for the voiceless, shedding light on the experiences of marginalized communities and challenging the dominant narratives of history. His work has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the Cannes Film Festival's Palme d'Or and the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Ferryman of Memories is a must-read for anyone interested in cinema, history, and social justice. It offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the power of film to convey complex ideas and emotions, and provides a valuable insight into the life and work of one of the most important filmmakers of our time.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 162 x 243 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978814646