7 artists. 7 journeys. 1 dream.
Cool Like Us is a Docu-series that dives into the rise of Cambodia's new wave of artists: YCN Tomie, YCN Dizzy, YCN Rakhie, All3rgy, Hasha, Mut Phearin and Meezy24k together known as La Cima Cartel.
Written & Directed by SIDNEY KEN
Executive Producer: RITHY SIV
Supervising Producer: VIRAKYUTH CHEAR
Assistant Director: CHANTHIDA HEM
Director of Photography: SAMBATH MAO
Assistant Camera: SOTHEARA YONG
Gaffer: SOKHENG KROU
Prop Master: TiKo
Production Assistant: DOUNGCHANVATEY YAMA
Digital Imaging Technician: VYRAKYUTH TAN
Editor & Colorist: PHATANA PHAY and SIDNEY KEN
Shot on RED Komodo 6K
Upon leaving home with a big promise, Tomie manages to invent his own talent out of nothing but pure will and determination. Testimonies by other members of La Cima Cartel reveal Tomie’s character and ambitions in this brave world of music creation.
Dizzy navigates the tension between ambition and belonging. After leaving his hometown in search of direction, he is constantly reminded of his late mother. Over time, he finds a new sense of home through friendships and a shared love of music.
Rakhie revisits eight chapters of his life and self-narrates the thoughts that shaped each stage, with a special interview from his mother about her perspective on his career. His gratitude for family resonates in an original track featured at the end.
After years of being mocked for the sound of his voice, Phearin transforms what others saw as a weakness into his greatest strength. This episode follows his journey toward self-acceptance and revisits the work that initially put him in the spotlight.
What would you say to your younger self? In an alternate universe, Hasha steps onto the stage of a vintage talk show and meets his 18-year-old self. A playful conversation erupts into arguments as the two confront their fears, regrets, and truths they have avoided for years.
In a tale-inspired portrait, Meezy is a brave young man who departs Koh Kong when his mother’s support fades, choosing music over the family trade. His story unfolds as a struggle between ambition and exhaustion, driven by his fear of falling behind time.