Same Same But Different

Based on a memoir by Benjamin Prüfer, German director Detlev Buck's romantic drama introduces protagonist Ben (David Cross), a sexually inexperienced German university graduate, backpacking his way through Cambodia like so many other Europeans looking for drugs, drink, and sex. Unlike the others, however, Ben falls in love with the Phnom Penh "bar girl" he meets, Sreykeo (Apinya Sakuljaroensuk). Back in Germany, working towards a journalistic career, Ben attempts to maintain a long-distance relationship with Sreykeo via phone and Internet, sending money to keep her out of prostitution. After finally being persuaded to consult a Western-style doctor for lingering illness, Sreykeo reveals that she is HIV-positive, after which Ben strives against great odds to get her on effective medication. The question is: can the relationship survive, despite the enormous gulf in distance, cultures, future prospects, and social classes? Touching on issues related to sex tourism, Third World exploitation, and HIV/AIDS, this intriguing foreign drama is recommended. (C. Cassady)