The Killing Fields (1984)

Even though this movie is a bit outdated it still holds one's attention.

Quite an old film but was an interesting and very sad story. I liked the history part to it and if you dont know much about the Cambodian war it gives you a fair insight.

more poignant having visited Cambodia recently.

A subtle but powerful retelling of the rising of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia filmed only a few years after the events. It was interesting to note that very little information was given to the viewer about the circumstances of the conflict and uprising of the Khmer Rouge. This may not have been an issue for those watching when the film was released (as it was close to the actual events) but for those watching some 30 years later some explanation is warranted. I had read of the conflict (including personal recollections of people forced into the countryside to starve and work in Cambodia's own cultural revolution) and I have been to Cambodia and visited the killing fields and S21, but those watching with me who had not had this background were confused and left with many questions. The acting of Haing Ngor was remarkable and I was also impressed by John Malkovich. I thought Sam Waterston's performance left a bit to be desired, but did not ruin the film. i agree with the commentator below about the extraordinarily bad soundtrack. the film should be 5 stars but, though a classic telling an important story, I can only give it 3.5 to 4 stars. Absolutely worth watching, but read a bit about the background to the conflict and the civil war that ensued first.

Still powerful after all these years. Tragic story of the Khmer Rouge takeover in Cambodia and the resulting killing of hundreds of thousands of innocent Cambodians. Brilliantly acted and shot. Four and a half stars.

Best movie without a doubt. Brilliant acting in such a moving true story.

The rating says it all.

This movie must have the worst soundtrack of any major movie. Intrusive, bizarre and inappropriate in way that detracts from the gravity of the story being told which is worth telling. In addition, the direction and acting are highly variable. When the film concludes with John Lennon's 'Imagine' I was ready to strangle the director.

Excellant all the way, one of the best films ever released without question, very moving story line and brilliant acting.

Everytime I watch this movie, I cry! It is such a powerful story...one worth watching - and remembering!

Brilliant, Brilliant, Brilliant. one of the best movies i will ever see in my life time, Brilliant actors, very motivating, the movie captures true events which reaches out to you and grabs you. What a true hero a movie not to be missed!!!! 11/10

Terrific movie based on New York Times correspondent, Sidney Schanberg's coverage of the rise of the the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia in the 70's. After the fall of Saigon, the American government's attention shifted to Phnom Penh and Pol Pot's Red Army, Sam Waterson plays Shanberg and Dr Haing S Nor plays his assistant, interpretor and friend, Dith Pran. The volatile situation in Phnom Penh is expertly shown and the growing sense of unease is movingly played out in Pran's worried face. The American government is seen as complicit in the Cambodian people's descent into a living hell. Dr Haing S Nor won the best actor Oscar for his performance as Pran and deservedly so, his intelligence and compassion in the face of evil is incredibly moving.