Watch Angkor Rediscovered

Working towards preserving the history of Cambodia, the documentary "Angkor Rediscovered" takes viewers on a journey through the fascinating world of Angkor Wat. Directed by Kiki Castillo and produced by Angelina Jolie in association with the BBC, the film delves into the exploration of the magnificent temples which were built to honor the Hindu god Vishnu and later converted to a Buddhist site. Spread over 400 acres, the sprawling complex is home to around 1,000 temples and other religious monuments that still leave visitors awestruck.

The documentary begins by providing some historical background on Angkor, with archaeologists narrating the discovery of the site in the late 19th century by French explorer Henri Mouhot. The film highlights the importance of the site, not just for Cambodia, but for the world, as it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Angkor was the capital of the Khmer empire, which ruled present-day Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand from the 9th to the 15th century.

The film then takes viewers on a mesmerizing journey through the ruins of the temples, which are now adorned with moss, roots, and vines. Insights from archaeologists, researchers, and historians reveal the immense effort that went into the construction of such a grand structure. The technology used in the building process is discussed, emphasizing the innovative mechanisms used to transport the massive stones used in the construction.

As the documentary progresses, we learn about the many gods worshipped by the Khmer people, and the intricate carvings that adorn the temples. Each carving tells a detailed story about the god or goddess it depicts, an insight into the lives of the Khmer people who lived over a thousand years ago. The film also takes a closer look at some of the more well-known temples, including the Bayon Temple which is famous for its enormous stone carvings of 216 smiling faces. Viewers are granted exclusive access to the temples, allowing them to see things from angles that have never been seen before.

The documentary reveals the challenges faced in preserving such a massive archaeological site. The destruction of temples by forces such as the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s, treasure hunters, and weathering has resulted in the loss of a significant amount of history. The documentary details the work being done by organizations such as the GCI (Getty Conservation Institute) that has been collaborating with the Cambodian government to halt further destruction and to preserve what remains.

The film also features interviews with current-day Cambodians, who talk about the significance of the site to their national identity. For them, Angkor represents a connection to their ancestors, their culture and is a source of immense pride.

The filmmakers have done an incredible job in pulling viewers into the fascinating world of Angkor Wat, using drone footage and stunning visuals to give a panoramic view of the temples. The film is educational, immersive, and thought-provoking, as it raises questions on the role of preserving our heritage for future generations.

Overall, "Angkor Rediscovered" is an impressive and engaging documentary that skillfully combines academic research, historical facts, and cultural insights to provide viewers with a glimpse of one of the world's most significant archaeological sites. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our past for the future, and how the beauty and wonders of Angkor Wat will continue to captivate and amaze viewers for centuries to come.