Performance & Direction: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine Review
Last updated: February 1, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine (2003) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Documentary.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Documentary is often anchored by its ensemble, and S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine features a noteworthy lineup led by Chum Mey . Supported by the likes of Khieu 'Poev' Ches and Yeay Cheu , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine
Quick Plot Summary: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine is a Documentary, History, War film that presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine
Ending Breakdown: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to documentary resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the documentary themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine draws heavily from documented historical records. As a documentary, history, war film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Documentaries films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine
All Cast & Crew →Where to Watch S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine Online?
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LaCinetekS21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine Parents Guide & Age Rating
2003 AdvisoryWondering about S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine is 101 minutes (1h 41m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.4/10, and global performance metrics, S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2003 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine worth watching?
S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies. It has a verified rating of 7.4/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine?
The total duration of S21: The Khmer Rouge Killing Machine is 101 minutes, which is approximately 1h 41m long.
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This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.