“Becoming Human”, interview with the director Polen Ly

The film “Becoming Human (Chiet Chea Manusa)” by Polen Ly offers a profound meditation on the intersection of Cambodia’s history, culture, and evolving identity. Presented within the prestigious Biennale College Cinema programme at Venice Film Festival, we met with the director of this debut feature to talk about memory, spirituality, and generational dialogue.

A tribute to Cambodia’s cinematic Golden Era

“Becoming Human” was inspired by Cambodia’s rich cinema history, particularly the vibrant film industry of the 1940s to 1960s. Polen Ly, whose personal roots trace back to the country’s golden age of filmmaking, chose an old cinema as the film’s central setting—a cultural landmark representing a bygone era before the tragedy of the Khmer Rouge.
This nostalgic choice underscores a tribute not only to the architectural beauty of Cambodia’s art deco cinemas but also to a cultural fabric that was radically disrupted. The protagonist, a spirit residing within the cinema, embodies the lingering memories of this venerable period, symbolizing both loss and reverence.

Themes of spirit and society

“Becoming Human” explores the concept of spirits as more than supernatural entities—they reflect the collective memory and resilience of Cambodian people. The spirit of the cinema, facing demolition, symbolizes the displacement caused by rapid modernization and urban development. The narrative introduces a young boy, representing the future, who encounters the cinema’s spirit, bridging the gap between old and new Cambodia. This relationship mirrors ongoing societal tensions—where traditions are challenged by progress and the scars of historical trauma linger beneath contemporary growth. The film invites viewers to contemplate where cultural spirits go when physical spaces vanish, prompting reflections on heritage preservation amid change.

Visual poetics and cultural reflection

Polen Ly, the film’s director, emphasizes the film’s poetic and meditative approach, maintaining these qualities throughout its duration. The cinematic language employs rich visuals, capturing the architecture and atmosphere of the old cinema, evoking deep sensory responses.

The film serves as a visual homage to Cambodia’s architectural legacy, which, in the director’s words, “gives a deep feeling, a deep sensation to be there”.

Addressing trauma and hope

“Becoming Human” also functions as an introspective reflection on Cambodia’s history of trauma—from the genocide to modern societal upheavals. The old cinema acts as a sanctuary—a space where characters can escape painful realities, paralleling how the nation as a whole grapples with its past.
It highlights the importance of intergenerational dialogue—encouraging understanding and compassion between past and present. The character’s journey suggests that acceptance of pain and hope for renewal can coexist, ultimately fostering a message of optimism.

A timely reflection through artistic lens

With “Becoming Human” the filmmaker invites audiences to consider the universal aspects of trauma and remembrance. The film underscores that cultural and spiritual preservation are vital amid modernization. It advocates for a collective effort to bridge generational divides, emphasizing that healing and transformation are ongoing processes rooted in understanding and compassion.

Plot