Truong Minh Quý’s Viet and Nam is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Set against the backdrop of Vietnam’s mining industry and interwoven with the lingering scars of the Vietnam War, this deeply introspective film captures the complexities of human relationships and the haunting presence of history. Through its nuanced narrative and evocative cinematography, Viet and Nam invites viewers to reflect on the profound themes of love, loss, and the enduring impact of the past.

Plot and Characters: A Journey Through Love and Loss

At its core, Viet and Nam tells the story of two young gay miners, Viet and Nam, whose relationship unfolds in the shadow of Vietnam’s tumultuous history. Their bond is tender yet fraught, as Nam plans a perilous journey to Europe, leaving Viet behind. This imminent separation injects a bittersweet tension into their love story.

Parallel to this is the narrative of Nam’s mother, Hoa, a widow consumed by vivid dreams of her late husband, a soldier who never returned from the Vietnam War. Her longing for closure drives her to enlist Nam, Viet, and a family friend, Ba—who fought alongside her husband—in a journey through former Viet Cong territory. Along the way, they encounter a self-proclaimed psychic, whose dubious claims highlight the desperation faced by families seeking to recover their loved ones.

These intersecting storylines create a tapestry of personal and collective grief, with each character’s journey reflecting the broader struggles of a nation grappling with its past.

Themes and Symbolism: Unpacking the Layers

Love and Separation

The romance between Viet and Nam is central to the film’s emotional core. Their love is portrayed as both a sanctuary and a source of anguish, particularly as Nam’s decision to migrate underscores the sacrifices often required in the pursuit of a better life. The mine, where much of their relationship unfolds, serves as a symbolic refuge—an underground world where societal norms give way to a more honest expression of their love.

Historical Trauma and Loss

Hoa’s quest to find her husband’s remains brings the unresolved grief of the Vietnam War into sharp focus. Her haunting dreams are a poignant reminder of the countless families still searching for closure decades after the conflict. The film’s exploration of these personal tragedies mirrors the broader societal wounds that continue to shape Vietnam’s identity.

Environmental and Health Consequences

The film doesn’t shy away from critiquing the mining industry’s impact on both the environment and the miners’ health. Nam’s reference to the coal in his lungs is a stark metaphor for the insidious toll of industrialisation, reflecting a slow, inevitable poisoning that parallels the emotional and historical burdens borne by the characters.

Cinematography and Narrative Style: A Visual and Emotional Feast

One of the most striking aspects of Viet and Nam is its cinematography. Shot on 16mm film by Son Doan, the visuals possess a grainy, dreamlike quality that enhances the intimacy of the moments shared by Viet and Nam. The aesthetic choice lends the film an almost tactile sense of nostalgia, as if the story itself is an artefact unearthed from the past.

The juxtaposition of settings—the claustrophobic, shadowy confines of the mine versus the open, verdant countryside—serves as a visual metaphor for the characters’ inner worlds. The mine represents secrecy and repression, while the countryside symbolises freedom and the possibility of reconciliation.

The film’s deliberate pacing allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in its emotional landscape. While this unhurried approach may challenge some audiences, it ultimately rewards those willing to engage deeply with its themes and characters.

Critical Reception and Cultural Context

Despite its artistic merits, Viet and Nam faced significant hurdles. The Vietnamese government banned the film prior to its premiere at Cannes, citing its depiction of a gay romance and its pessimistic themes. This decision underscores the societal taboos that the film courageously confronts, offering a rare and necessary perspective on LGBTQ+ experiences in a conservative cultural landscape.

Critics, however, have lauded the film for its sensitive and nuanced storytelling. Its ability to weave together personal and historical narratives has been particularly praised, with many commending Truong Minh Quý for his bold and introspective vision.

Lessons for Filmmakers and Cinephiles

Cultural Sensitivity in Storytelling

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its cultural authenticity. By grounding its narrative in the specific historical and social realities of Vietnam, Viet and Nam offers a story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Innovative Visual Storytelling

The use of 16mm film and the deliberate contrasts between locations are masterclasses in visual storytelling. Filmmakers can draw inspiration from how these techniques enhance the emotional resonance of the narrative.

Balancing Pessimism with Hope

While the film’s outlook is undeniably sombre, its portrayal of love and resilience offers glimmers of hope. This balance ensures that the story remains compelling rather than overwhelming, a crucial consideration for tackling heavy subject matter.