Watch Rocking Cambodia: Rise of a Pop Diva

Rocking Cambodia: Rise of a Pop Diva is a 2017 documentary film directed by Marc Eberle, which chronicles the rise of Cambodian singer Srey Thy, the lead singer of the Cambodian Space Project, a popular Phnom Penh-based band. The documentary features music, interviews, and performances from Srey Thy and the band as they embark on a journey to revive the golden era of Cambodian rock and roll and bring it to a new generation of listeners.

The film starts by exploring Cambodia's rich musical history, particularly the 1960s and 70s, which was marked by a vibrant rock and roll scene. However, the rise of the Khmer Rouge and the subsequent civil war resulted in the destruction of much of the country's music scene. As a result of this, much of the country's musical history has been lost, and the effects are still felt today.

Despite this setback, Srey Thy is passionate about bringing Cambodian music back to life. Inspired by the music of the past, Srey begins to explore the country's musical heritage, seeking out old recordings and musicians who still remember the old songs. Through her collaboration with Australian musician Julien Poulson, Srey Thy and the Cambodian Space Project become one of the biggest acts in the country. They are an eclectic bunch of artists, and they capture the essence of Cambodian music in their unique style.

The film takes the viewer on a journey to several Cambodian towns where Srey Thy and the band perform at intimate venues, including guesthouses, restaurants, and temples. As they travel, they share stories of the country's musical history with the audience, highlighting how it’s been lost over time. It's a nostalgic trip, and Srey Thy's passion for Cambodian music is infectious.

Despite the country's fraught history, there is no shortage of talent in Cambodia. The documentary reveals a growing contemporary music scene, which is led by young musicians who are experimenting with blending traditional Cambodian sounds with modern genres such as hip hop and electronic music. Srey Thy is supportive of these musicians and is keen to encourage the growth of the music scene.

Aside from the music, the film offers some insights into Cambodia's culture and customs. It's clear that the country has a deep fascination with superstitions, monarchs, and the afterlife. The documentary offers several examples of these superstitions, such as the belief in ghosts, and the importance of money chai, a type of ancestral ritual.

Overall, Rocking Cambodia: Rise of a Pop Diva is an uplifting and fascinating documentary that will undoubtedly pique the interest of music lovers and those interested in Cambodia's history and culture. It offers an intimate glimpse into the life of Srey Thy, a passionate and talented singer, whose work has helped to revive Cambodian music and bring it to a new generation of listeners.

Rocking Cambodia: Rise of a Pop Diva is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute.