Virak Dara

Virak Dara was born Kim Hiek in 1947 in Kampot Province, Cambodia. When Ly Bun Yim (one of the leading filmmakers in Cambodia at that time) met Virak Dara, he wanted her to star in his films. Her parents initially did not consent, but after the two were married, Virak Dara changed her name and began her acting career. Dara would go on to star in 11 feature films, all directed by her husband. Other production companies were interested in having Dara in their movies, but Ly Bun Yim did not want his wife to work for other studios. Virak Dara and her husband were trapped in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime. Three of Dara's films were never released, as they were destroyed by the Khmer Rouge. In 1977, the couple emigrated to France and struggled to make a living. She now currently lives in France and the United States and she visits Cambodia every year. Virak Dara divorced Ly Bun Yim in 1986; they remain good friends. Dara has five sons. Ly Rattanak, her eldest, also appeared with her in many films, including Khmer After Angkor (1972).