The film doesn't try to turn the conflict into majestic art or cinematic poetry. The camera points at the action, captures the shock of sudden violence, the idleness of being stuck in one place, and the confusion in between. Joffe understands that the impact of the war will be felt just fine without embellishments, and his job is to probe into the worries of these journalists on the fringe of it, especially as they struggle to get a Cambodian colleague out of the country before things get worse.

Absolutely wonderful acting by Haing S. Ngor ruined by some very dodgy acting in this film by the rest of the cast. You get the impression some actors just didn't take it seriously. It's also apparent that Ngor's performance was such a contrast because it actually had heart. Instead of tightening up the production it seems a few actors were allowed to do whatever they wanted. Very flawed film that doesn't entirely live up to its reputation.

The general structure follows a well worn formula but it's still a gripping story that's very well acted.

After a dry start, the stakes in THE KILLING FIELDS increase--and so do the film's strengths. Despite occasionally pedestrian handling, the power of the story--the rise and tyranny of the Khmer Rouge, against one man in particular--is not blunted. As that man, Dith Pran, Haing S. Ngor is full of life and vitality at first--and later with a quiet but absolute desire to survive; he won a deserved Oscar. Fine acting from all. Vivid realization of the horrors of Year 0, and a famously moving ending.

Powerful, honest and brutally realistic. This is the proper way to make war dramas.

no interest

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Rather underwhelming for a Best Picture nominee. Obviously, this was a huge part of Cambodian history, and I felt that this film just didn't do it justice. Sure it is a feel good story about a survivor, but the actual story encompasses so much more than that. I also didn't think that the acting was that strong; I was just grateful that Malkovich didn't have a big enough part to screw it up even more.

Sentimental and uneven, "The Killing Fields" is nevertheless decent. Certain scenes showcase Joffé as a capable craftsman and his direction is solid overall. However, several factors hampered my enjoyment of the film: the relationship between the two protagonists never feels believable which limits any emotional impact while Waterston's journalist never becomes interesting. There are strong moments here (not including the hokey "Imagine" reunion) but I found it disappointing as a whole.