A promotional poster has been released for the forthcoming movie, "The Angkor Code," a collaborative cinematic venture between China and Cambodia, signaling a significant step in bolstering cultural exchanges between the two nations. The memorandum of understanding, marking the initiation of this project, was formalized in Phnom Penh on April 11.

This feature-length film is a joint undertaking by Shinework Pictures, a Beijing-based production house, and Soma Group, a prominent Cambodian conglomerate. The narrative is intricately woven into the rich historical tapestry of Angkor Wat, globally recognized as the largest religious monument.

Iris Wang, the film's producer, shared that the genesis of this project dates back to July of the previous year. This movie represents Shinework Pictures' third foray into international co-productions, following the success of Jackie Chan's Sino-Indian blockbuster, "Kung Fu Yoga," and "The Composer," a Sino-Kazakh film that brought to light the untold story of the musician Xian Xinghai.

Wang, after multiple visits to Cambodia over the past six months in search of script inspiration, revealed that "The Angkor Code" will blend elements of suspense, adventure, and action, creating a compelling human-interest story centered around the friendship between a Chinese martial artist and a Cambodian fighter. According to Wang, who also serves as the vice-president of Shinework Pictures, the plot revolves around the duo's collaboration to thwart an international gang involved in stealing valuable treasures, with support from both countries.

Given China's position as one of the world's largest movie markets, Wang expressed hope that the film would stimulate interest among Chinese tourists to explore Cambodia, a nation celebrated for its history and cultural heritage.

The film is set to feature A-list stars from China and Cambodia, along with international actors, and will showcase the intricate stone carvings of Angkor Wat, the combat techniques of Kun Khmer (a Cambodian martial art), and the Apsara Dance, a traditional performance art with roots stretching back to the 7th century.

Jonathan Shen, president of Shinework Pictures, highlighted the success of "The Composer" at the 2nd Cambodia-Asia Film Festival in August of the previous year, where it won the Golden Rumdul Award for Best Film, surpassing 300 competitors from 12 countries and regions. This achievement was lauded by industry experts and attendees, including Wang Wenbin, the Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia.

Shen stated that through this new film, developed within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, they aim to capture the dynamic spirit of modern Cambodia and celebrate the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Krasna Cham, chairwoman and CEO of Soma Group, characterized the co-production as a landmark event for cultural exchange between Cambodia and China. She believes that the film will vividly portray Angkor Wat's historical legacy and contemporary vibrancy to audiences in China and worldwide.