Director Leak Ly Da Says "Blood Border" Has Left Him Mentally Exhausted as Release Nears

Phnom Penh, November 4, 2026: Leak Ly Da, director of the historical film "Blood Border, Cambodia's Second Killing Fields," has disclosed that the project has taken a severe toll on his mental health, just days before it opens in cinemas nationwide on Nov. 6, 2026.

The head of LD Entertainment said in a Facebook post that although the public has celebrated and taken pride in the film, it has become a heavy psychological burden, leaving him exhausted and nearly unable to continue working as a director.

He maintained that he has always complied with the law and official instructions, and thanked the public for supporting and understanding LD's production, expressing hope that audiences will remain by his side.


The film draws on excerpts from "Phnom Damrei, the Unforgettable" by Oknha Dr. Kouch Mengly, along with interviews and true accounts from Cambodian refugees in 1979.

Leak Ly Da had earlier called on the public to watch the film in large numbers to meet Netflix metrics and bring the Khmer story to global audiences, and said he was ready to present research documents, stressing the film seeks to portray historical truth without incitement.

His message has drawn concern and strong encouragement from Cambodian film fans, who have urged him and his team to stay strong ahead of the release.


Reported by The Khmer Daily Network