A combination photo showing ‘The Perfect Motion’ banner and the MoU signing ceremony in the French capital Paris on January 15. STPM
The Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC Group) has forged a strategic partnership with Aloest Productions, a French audiovisual production company, to promote the film “The Perfect Motion” across Europe.
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The film, known as “Tep Hattha” in Khmer, takes audiences on a cinematic journey through the rich history of the Royal Ballet of Cambodia and Apsara, one of the traditional dance of the Royal Ballet repertoire.
Their collaboration was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which was signed on January 15 at the French-Cambodian Business Forum.
“This collaboration designates OCIC as the primary sponsor of ‘The Perfect Motion,’ which is slated for screenings in more than 30 cities across the continent,” says Tea Thierry, OCIC vice-president.
“This underscores the company’s dedication to supporting cultural and artistic initiatives while strengthening its foothold and influence in the French film industry,” he explains.
The film is set to premiere in French cinemas on March 13, following preview screenings in France, Belgium and Switzerland. The previews begin at the Guimet Asian Arts Museum in Paris on February 12 and conclude at the UNESCO Headquarters on March 11.
At its core, the film pays tribute to the late Princess Norodom Buppha Devi, former Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, and director of the Royal Ballet. It highlights her lifelong efforts to preserve the Kingdom’s cultural legacy during the challenges of the Khmer Rouge era.
A fusion of beauty and drama
Prince Sisowath Tesso, former private secretary to the princess and current director of the Royal Ballet, recalls her deep commitment to Cambodian culture. He remembers her strong desire to ensure younger generations remain well-versed in their cultural heritage.
“She consistently shared her knowledge and experiences, aspiring to safeguard and share them with younger generations, both personally and through her fellow educators,” Prince Tesso says.
Xavier de Lauzanne, the film’s director, described ‘The Perfect Motion’ as a remarkable five-year odyssey. From the initial idea and scriptwriting, to casting and production, it mirrored the thrills and unpredictability of the film’s narrative.
“We wanted to produce a film that captures both the beauty of Cambodian classical dance and the incredible drama of its recent history,” he says.
He explains how the film explores several universal themes, showcasing art as a powerful force for resilience, identity and pride.
“Releasing a documentary film in cinema is never easy; you have to get the audiences engaged first,” de Lauzanne tells The Post.
“The Franco-Khmer and Sino-Khmer communities, along with French NGOs in Cambodia, collectively known as ‘friends of Cambodia,’ have the potential to amplify their impact by engaging in discussions about the film and drawing a broader audience,” he says.
Showcasing the Kingdom to the world
The film aims to showcase Cambodia’s unique creativity, particularly through the Royal Ballet and classical Khmer dance.
Titled “La Beaute du geste” in French, it aims to introduce a broader audience to the creativity showcased by Cambodians throughout their thousand-year civilisation. It specifically showcases the enigmatic art of the Royal Ballet and classical Khmer dance on the big screen.
Through the MoU, OCIC Group aspires to show the film extensively in French cinemas.
Thierry says they aim to introduce Cambodian art to a French audience, with a special focus on connecting with Khmer immigrants and allowing them to rediscover their cultural roots.
“We aspire to bring the film to French cinemas, introducing often overlooked Cambodian art to a wider audience,” he tells The Post.
“It also aims to foster cultural connection for Khmer immigrants in France, helping them remember or rediscover their rich heritage through cinema,” Thierry explains.
Thierry says that with ample financial resources, strong logistical support and extensive collaborations, the film is set for a tour across France and Belgium. He sees the collaboration as a possible catalyst for positive cultural exchanges, business opportunities and international relations.
“By promoting Khmer art and culture, we are projecting Cambodia as a dynamic hub for diverse opportunities, attracting attention from foreign investors, customers and partners, both nationally and internationally,” he says.
Cambodia as creative hub
Thierry notes that Cambodia is currently undergoing a positive transformation, with his group striving to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with investors, customers and partners.
The goal is to portray the Kingdom as a rapidly advancing nation, abundant with opportunities and resourcefulness.
“This strategic rebranding seeks to attract international attention and establish Cambodia as an attractive and dynamic centre of diverse opportunities,” he says.
“The Perfect Motion” has garnered backing from the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as entities like the Royal and WorldBridge groups, and Wing, Vattanac and Bred banks.
The director shares his joy at the upcoming French release, describing collaboration between French and Cambodian organisations as recognition of Cambodian institutions of art’s significance in identity construction.
“This week in France, the collaboration agreement between Aloest Productions and OCIC was signed, with Prime Minister Hun Manet in attendance, marking a significant moment,” de Lauzanne says.
He also notes the film’s continuous presence in Cambodian schools and its approval as an educational resource by the ministries of education and culture. Soon, the movie will also be accessible online.
