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Movie of the Day: Viet and Nam (2024) by Minh Quy Truong

  • Writer: dailyentertainment95
    dailyentertainment95
  • May 4
  • 4 min read

“Viet and Nam” (2024) by Trương Minh Quý: A Meditative Exploration of Love and Memory Amidst Vietnam's War-Torn Landscape

Summary

Viet and Nam (2024), directed by Trương Minh Quý, is a contemplative romantic drama that delves into the intertwined lives of two coal miners, Nam and Viet, in early 2000s Vietnam. Their secret relationship unfolds against the backdrop of a nation still grappling with the remnants of war. As Nam prepares to leave the country in search of a better life, he embarks on a poignant journey to find his father's remains—a soldier lost during the Vietnam War. This quest becomes a profound exploration of personal and collective histories, love, and the enduring impact of conflict.

Detailed Plot Summary

Set in 2001, the film follows Nam and Viet, two coal miners who share a clandestine romantic relationship. Nam, driven by dreams of a better future, plans to leave Vietnam. Before his departure, he seeks to locate his father's remains, a soldier who vanished during the war. With Viet's reluctant assistance, they journey through landscapes scarred by history, confronting memories and the weight of their nation's past.

Director's Vision

Trương Minh Quý, known for blending documentary realism with poetic imagery, crafts Viet and Nam as an introspective narrative that delves into themes of identity, memory, and the aftermath of war. His use of 16mm film lends a tactile quality to the visuals, enhancing the film's meditative tone. Quý's storytelling is influenced by filmmakers like Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Tsai Ming-liang, evident in the film's languid pacing and emphasis on atmosphere over plot.

Themes

  • Love and Secrecy: The hidden relationship between Nam and Viet underscores the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in conservative societies.

  • Memory and Loss: The search for Nam's father's remains symbolizes a nation's attempt to reconcile with its past.

  • Migration and Displacement: Nam's desire to leave reflects broader themes of escape and the pursuit of a better life amidst socio-political constraints.

  • National Identity: The film examines how personal histories intertwine with national narratives, questioning the constructs of identity and belonging.

Key Success Factors

  • Authentic Performances: The use of non-professional actors brings a raw and genuine quality to the characters.

  • Visual Aesthetic: The 16mm cinematography captures the stark beauty of Vietnam's landscapes, enhancing the film's emotional depth.

  • Narrative Depth: The film's layered storytelling invites viewers to reflect on complex themes, resonating with audiences seeking meaningful cinema.

Awards and Nominations

  • Cannes Film Festival: Nominated for Un Certain Regard and Queer Palm.

  • Asia Pacific Screen Awards: Nominated for Best Cinematography.

  • Singapore International Film Festival: Won Best Director.

  • QCinema International Film Festival: Won Best Picture – Asian Next Wave Competition.

  • Filmfest München: Won CineRebels Award.

Critics' Reception

  • Los Angeles Times: Described the film as "constructed out of neat symmetries and thorny juxtapositions," highlighting its exploration of mirrored histories and desires. 

  • Le Monde: Praised the film's poetic and raw atmosphere, noting its attempt to piece together a wounded nation's fragments. 

  • San Francisco Chronicle: Commended the film's meditative storytelling and stunning visuals, though noted its slow pacing might challenge some viewers. 

  • Cineuropa: Acknowledged the film's contemplative nature, suggesting it may feel like a standard East Asian festival film but still offers profound insights. 

Reviews

Production

Viet and Nam was shot on 16mm film, emphasizing its textured visual aesthetic. The production involved international collaboration, with filming taking place in various locations across Vietnam.

Production Companies

  • Epicmedia Productions (Philippines)

  • E&W Films (Singapore)

  • Deuxième Ligne Films (France)

  • An Original Picture (Netherlands)

  • Cinema Inutile (Italy)

  • Scarlet Visions (Germany)

  • Purin Pictures (Thailand)

Sales Companies

  • Pyramide International (France): Handled the film's international sales, leveraging its unique aesthetic and narrative appeal.

Distribution Companies

  • Strand Releasing (USA): Managed the film's distribution in the United States, focusing on art-house and independent cinema audiences.

  • Nour Films (France): Managed the film's theatrical release in France, bringing it to European audiences.

Release Dates

  • Theatrical Release: September 25, 2024, in France.

  • Streaming Release: Available for rental and purchase on platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Video.

Why Recommend This Movie

  • Emotional Resonance: The film offers a deep exploration of love, loss, and identity, resonating with audiences seeking meaningful narratives.

  • Cinematic Craftsmanship: Its use of 16mm film and meticulous cinematography create a visually arresting experience.

  • Cultural Insight: Provides a window into Vietnam's history and the personal impacts of national trauma.

Why You Should Watch the Movie

  • Unique Storytelling: The film's blend of personal and historical narratives offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

  • Artistic Direction: Trương Minh Quý's direction brings a poetic and contemplative approach to storytelling.

  • Representation: Highlights LGBTQ+ stories within the context of Vietnamese culture and history.

Film Trend

Trend Name: "Slow Cinema"

Viet and Nam aligns with the "Slow Cinema" movement, characterized by long takes, minimal dialogue, and a focus on atmosphere over plot, encouraging viewers to engage deeply with the film's emotional and visual elements.

Social Trend

Trend Name: "Queer Narratives in Global Cinema"

The film contributes to the growing presence of LGBTQ+ stories in international cinema, offering nuanced portrayals that transcend cultural boundaries and foster global empathy.

Final Verdict

Viet and Nam is a poignant and visually stunning exploration of love, memory, and national identity. While its deliberate pacing may not appeal to all viewers, those who engage with its contemplative narrative will find a richly rewarding cinematic experience.

Recommendations for Filmmakers

  • Embrace Authenticity: Utilizing non-professional actors can bring a raw and genuine quality to performances.

  • Visual Storytelling: Invest in cinematography that complements and enhances the narrative's emotional depth.

  • Cultural Specificity: Grounding stories in specific cultural contexts can create universally resonant themes.

Recommendations for the Movie Industry

  • Support Diverse Voices: Invest in films that explore underrepresented perspectives and narratives.

  • Champion Artistic Risks: Encourage filmmakers to experiment with form and content, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

  • Facilitate Global Distribution: Ensure that international films have access to broader audiences through strategic distribution channels.


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