The conference broadly examined memory as a key element in the construction and deconstruction of national identities. Guyot-Bender’s talk drew on her recent research on contemporary Cambodian cinema, a field that has received little scholarly attention so far.
Her presentation focused on the documentary films of Cambodian-French filmmaker Rithy Panh, particularly his work on the aftermath of the Cambodian genocide (1975–79). She highlighted Panh’s prolific filmography, emphasizing his use of slow, understated cinematography and his focus on individual victims. Guyot-Bender also explored the various filmic strategies he employs to evoke memory without resorting to dramatization.
She also discussed Panh’s efforts to help rebuild Cambodia’s film industry following its destruction during the genocide—a process he describes as “creating archives for the future.” His archive center, the Bophana Audiovisual Resource Center, which also functions as a small film school, has helped foster a new wave of Cambodian art-house cinema. Guyot-Bender’s research was first funded by the Khmer Studies Center and will continue during Fall 2026 during a Fulbright Fellowship.
Posted April 21, 2026
