A promotional poster heralded the upcoming movie, The Angkor Code, a collaborative project between China and Cambodia. This feature-length film signifies a burgeoning cultural exchange between the two nations, cemented by a memorandum of understanding signed in Phnom Penh on April 11.

The movie, jointly produced by Shinework Pictures, a Beijing-based company, and Cambodian conglomerate Soma Group, will unfold against the majestic backdrop of Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious structure, steeped in centuries of history. Iris Wang, the film's producer, shared that the project's genesis dates back to July of the previous year. This venture marks the third international coproduction for Shinework Pictures, following the success of Jackie Chan's Sino-Indian blockbuster, Kung Fu Yoga, and The Composer, a Sino-Kazakh film narrating the story of the musician Xian Xinghai.

Wang, after multiple trips to Cambodia seeking script inspiration, revealed that The Angkor Code will weave together suspense, adventure, and action to tell a compelling story of friendship between a Chinese martial artist and a Cambodian fighter. "The story will be about how they team up to stop an international gang that steals precious treasures, with aid from both countries," Wang, who also serves as vice-president of Shinework Pictures, explained.

With China's vast movie market, the producers hope the film will entice more Chinese tourists to explore Cambodia's rich history and cultural heritage. The film promises a stellar cast from China, Cambodia, and other countries, showcasing the intricate stone carvings of Angkor Wat, the thrilling stunts of Kun Khmer (a Cambodian combat sport), and the captivating Apsara Dance, a traditional performance dating back to the 7th century.

Jonathan Shen, president of Shinework Pictures, highlighted the prior success of The Composer, which won the Golden Rumdul Award for Best Film at the 2nd Cambodia-Asia Film Festival. This victory was lauded by industry insiders and Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin. Shen added, "Through the new film, created under the Belt and Road Initiative frame, we hope to capture the vibrant spirit of modern Cambodia and celebrate the enduring friendship between our two nations."

Krasna Cham, chairwoman and CEO of Soma Group, emphasized that the coproduction marks a pivotal moment for cultural exchange between Cambodia and China. She believes it will vividly portray Angkor Wat's historical legacy and contemporary dynamism to audiences in China and worldwide.