More than 400 people joined VPM at The Byrd Theater on May 3 to be a part of the premiere for Chasing Cambodia, a new documentary film that explores one cyclist’s journey to finding the balance between his Cambodian heritage and his American upbringing.
Check out a slide show of photos (above) for a special look inside the event!
VPM Chief Content Officer Steve Humble welcomed the crowd and introduced the film, and then the lights dimmed as the audience got their first look at the new documentary. Following the screening, the directors, producers and Johnny Phan took part in an engaging panel discussion about the film.
Chasing Cambodia follows Johnny Phan, who grew up balancing his Cambodian heritage with American life. As a son of refugees, an elite cyclist and a new father, Johnny takes to his bike to navigate a journey of identity that takes him to the other side of the world. He learns what it means to fully embrace his heritage in a world that tells him he’s neither fully American nor fully Cambodian.
Chasing Cambodia premieres on VPM PBS on Thursday, May 15 at 8 p.m. and will also be available on the PBS App beginning at 8 a.m. the same day. Chasing Cambodia is co-directed by filmmakers Kyle Jonas, and Ben Saunders, and the film is produced by Joey Schihl and VPM.
Watch a trailer for Chasing Cambodia below.