War. It’s chaotic, devastating, and heartbreaking—yet, strangely, it’s an endless source of beauty, depth, and humanity when told through the lens of cinema. In Vietnam, war films have long been more than just tales of battle; they’re windows into the nation’s soul, capturing the pain of loss and the enduring hope for peace.
And now, nearly 50 years after the historic day of national reunification on April 30, 1975, Vietnam takes a moment of reflection to celebrate and reassess this special cinematic legacy.
A Thoughtful Look Back at 50 Years of War Films
As part of the upcoming 3rd Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) in 2025, a special seminar titled “The Imprint of Vietnam War Films from Reunification to Present (1975–2025)” was held. It brought together passionate filmmakers, scholars, and cultural leaders to explore where war films have been—and where they might be headed.
Nguyễn Thị Anh Thi, Vice Chairwoman of the Da Nang City People’s Committee, kicked off the event by emphasizing the importance of recognizing 50 years of heartfelt, creative contributions that war films have offered to the country and the world.
From Heroic Ballads to Human Stories
After 1975, Vietnamese filmmakers began to look deeper. Sure, there were still tales of bravery and sacrifice, but the focus started shifting toward human emotional experiences and the personal cost of war.
Take classics like “Cánh đồng hoang” (The Abandoned Field), “Ngã ba Đồng Lộc,” or “Truyền thuyết về Quán Tiên.” These films don’t just wave patriotic flags—they provide raw, poignant slices of history. They’ve captured the trauma, the memories, and the collective spirit of resilience that define Vietnam.
These are not just movie reels—they’re cultural time machines, reminding young people why peace is sacred and what generations before endured to safeguard it.
A Platform for Deeper Conversation
The seminar wasn’t just a nostalgic stroll down cinematic memory lane. It was a vital space for directors, screenwriters, researchers, actors, and even government leaders to come together—offering insights that connect the past with the evolving roles of war cinema in a changing world.
Vice Chairwoman Nguyễn Thị Anh Thi affirmed Da Nang’s ongoing commitment to nurturing authentic artistic expression:
“We deeply value true artistic merit. And we’ll continue to support thoughtful cinematic efforts like this—programs steeped in culture and history that resonate with both local and international audiences.”
War Films in the Post-Reunification Era: What Has Changed?
Documentary to Drama: A Shift in Style
Back in the wartime years, documentaries held the frontline—literally. After reunification, fictional stories began to take over, offering a broader canvas to portray not only battles but also the emotional aftermaths.
This distance from real-time events gave filmmakers the space to reflect, to critique, and to humanize their characters—making room for contemplation and nuance.
Modern Themes, Timeless Emotions
Today’s war films aren’t just about soldiers with guns. They dive deep into post-war life, the psychological scars still bleeding, and the quiet strength of everyday people trying to rebuild. Even when explosions dominate the screen, these films subtly send powerful messages about love, forgiveness, endurance, and humanity’s moral compass.
Realism, Not Romanticism: What Makes a Great War Film?
NSƯT Director Bùi Tuấn Dũng said it best during the seminar:
“A truly impactful war film must reflect reality—not twist it or polish it too much. It should capture both glory and tragedy.”
In his view, war films must go beyond the usual “shoot ’em up” formula. Characters need depth, flaws, and personal stakes. They must struggle, hesitate, choose—and in doing so, reflect the real dilemmas of war. That’s how stories stay honest, relevant, and universally touching.
He added:
“A meaningful war film doesn’t preach. It invites reflection—on history, humanity, the cost of conflict, and where we stand as individuals. Films like these remain long after the credits roll.”
Not Just Films. These Are Lessons in Patriotism and Peace.
Vietnam’s war cinema has never been just entertainment. It’s a bold classroom that teaches national pride, honors sacrifice, and inspires a deep yearning for peace.
These films are invaluable to younger generations. Through their stories, they learn not just about what happened, but about who we are—and what kind of future we want to build.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for War Cinema in Vietnam?
The discussions at the 2025 seminar illuminated one thing clearly: war films still have a place in Vietnam’s cultural heartbeat. But like the industry itself, they must continue to evolve.
As Vietnamese cinema steps into global arenas, there’s now the opportunity to explore hybrid genres, experiment with technology, and engage international audiences with uniquely Vietnamese stories—crafted through an authentic, human lens.
And with platforms like DANAFF and initiatives from cities like Da Nang, the future of meaningful, high-quality war cinema looks bright.
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