Vietnamese cinema has experienced a remarkable transformation, from the era of colonial films to becoming a recognized force in modern international cinema. The journey of Vietnamese film is one of adaptation and resilience, marked by challenges and breakthroughs that have shaped the industry into what it is today.
Colonial Era and Early Cinema
During the early 20th century, Vietnam was under French colonial rule, and it was the French who introduced cinema to the country. Early Vietnamese films were heavily influenced by French cinema and often reflected the colonial power structure. However, in the 1920s, local filmmakers began to experiment with creating their own stories. Chung Tuong (1923) stands out as one of the first feature films made by a Vietnamese director, marking the beginning of the country’s cinematic journey.
Impact of the Vietnam War and Post-War Film Production
The Vietnam War had a profound impact on the film industry, with cinema often being used as a propaganda tool to support various political ideologies. After the reunification of the country in 1975, the government took full control of the film industry, and films were primarily produced with a focus on socialist realism, reinforcing government ideologies and celebrating the triumphs of the nation.
Although this period was marked by state-sponsored productions, creativity was often stifled due to the rigid control of the industry. Filmmakers were limited in their ability to explore diverse narratives and themes, and the industry struggled to grow during this time.
Modern-Day Vietnamese Cinema: A New Era
In recent years, Vietnamese cinema has experienced a revival, with a new generation of filmmakers embracing both the art and business of filmmaking. The post-Đổi Mới period in the 1990s allowed for greater creative freedom and the rise of independent cinema. Today, the industry has seen a resurgence in both domestic popularity and international recognition. Films like Furie (2019) and The Third Wife (2018) have garnered attention for their bold storytelling and cinematic beauty.
Technological advances have also played a significant role in the growth of the industry, enabling filmmakers to create films of higher quality on smaller budgets. As a result, Vietnamese cinema is no longer confined to the margins of Southeast Asian filmmaking but is quickly becoming a significant player on the global stage.