The Nine Lives of Norodom Sihanouk

The career of Norodom Sihanouk tells one of modern history's most incredible tales of political survival, with the Cambodian leader playing a pivotal role in his country's life for nearly seven decades, becoming king in 1941 and serving at various times as sovereign prince, president, and prime minister. Now approaching 90, Sihanouk holds the title of “king-father,” but in a nation with enormous internal problems that has also long been the plaything of powerful foreign forces, the ruler has had to be extraordinarily nimble—some would say totally unprincipled. Sihanouk wasn't always successful, with periods of genteel imprisonment alternating with his terms as head of state. Some of his choices can also certainly be criticized: Sihanouk collaborated with Japanese invaders against his French colonial masters during World War II, played the United States against North Vietnam, and after being deposed in 1970, allowed himself to be used by Beijing, Hanoi, and even Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge. Gilles Cayatte's absorbing documentary blends archival footage with interviews of historians, journalists, former Western diplomats, and Cambodian politicians (both admirers and opponents) to draw a fascinating warts-and-all portrait of a man who proved perhaps more cunning than wise, but nevertheless played a weak hand with remarkable dexterity for decades while outlasting many rivals. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)