Best Vietnamese Cinema, Referring To Films Produced In Vietnam in 2025

'The Scent of Green Papaya' is a masterpiece of visual storytelling, offering a gentle yet profound glimpse into Vietnamese life in the 1950s and 60s through the eyes of a young servant girl, Mui. Directed by Trần Anh Hùng, this film stands out for its exquisite cinematography and meticulous attention to detail, creating an immersive and beautiful world. The narrative, while linear, focuses on the quiet rhythms of daily life, growth, and the delicate shifts in personal relationships, rather than dramatic tension. Its universal themes of innocence, observation, and enduring beauty resonate deeply, making it a powerful and contemplative experience. The film's poetic imagery and gentle pace contribute to its strong critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. It is one of the most accessible Vietnamese films internationally, often available on various streaming platforms.

'Furie' is a groundbreaking action film that elevated Vietnamese cinema on the global stage. Starring model-turned-actress Ngô Thanh Vân (Veronica Ngo), who also produced the film, it tells the story of a former gangster who must rescue her kidnapped daughter. The film is celebrated for its raw, intense martial arts sequences and powerful lead performance. Unlike many action films, 'Furie' grounds its adrenaline-pumping scenes in emotional depth, driven by a mother's fierce love. The direction is tight and dynamic, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The film's international distribution on Netflix significantly boosted its reach and critical acclaim, showcasing Vietnam's capability to produce high-quality genre cinema that competes with regional powerhouses like South Korea and Thailand. Its accessibility and broad appeal make it a top choice for those new to Vietnamese cinema.

'The Third Wife' is a visually stunning and emotionally charged historical drama set in 19th-century rural Vietnam. The film follows May, a 14-year-old girl who becomes the third wife to a wealthy landowner, navigating the complexities and oppression of a patriarchal society. The film is lauded for its breathtaking cinematography, capturing the serene beauty of the Vietnamese countryside contrasted with the harsh realities faced by its female characters. Its direction is subtle yet powerful, allowing the visuals and performances to convey profound emotional depth. While it tackles sensitive themes of child marriage and female subjugation, it does so with immense grace and artistry, earning significant critical praise at international festivals like Toronto and San Sebastián. Its evocative storytelling and strong thematic elements make it a standout for discerning viewers, though its availability might be slightly more niche than 'Furie'.

'Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass' is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in the idyllic Vietnamese countryside in the 1980s. Directed by Victor Vũ, the film beautifully captures the magic and challenges of childhood through the eyes of two brothers. Its strengths lie in its nostalgic aesthetic, lush cinematography that showcases Vietnam's natural beauty, and a deeply emotional narrative about family, friendship, and first love. The film earned significant critical acclaim and was Vietnam's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards. Its universal themes of childhood innocence and discovery resonate broadly, making it a charming and accessible entry point for those new to Vietnamese cinema. The film's success also highlighted the growing polish and ambition of modern Vietnamese filmmaking.

'Cyclo' is a raw and uncompromising portrayal of life in the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, directed by the acclaimed Trần Anh Hùng. Following the struggles of an orphaned cyclo driver caught in the urban underworld, the film is a stark departure from the poetic beauty of 'Green Papaya,' embracing a gritty, neo-realist style. It features an early starring role for Tony Leung Chiu-wai. The film excels in its depiction of urban poverty, crime, and the resilience of the human spirit. While darker and more intense, its artistic merit is undeniable, winning the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. Its powerful performances and unflinching look at societal issues make it a crucial watch for those seeking a more challenging yet deeply rewarding cinematic experience from Vietnam. Its international recognition solidified Trần Anh Hùng's status as a formidable director.

'Once Upon a Time in Vietnam' stands out as an ambitious fantasy martial arts film, a genre not commonly seen from Vietnam. Directed by and starring Dustin Nguyễn, this film blends traditional Vietnamese folklore with modern action sequences. While it may not have achieved the same international critical mass as 'Furie', it represents a significant domestic effort to expand the genre horizons of Vietnamese cinema. The film's visual effects and artistic direction attempt to create a unique mystical world. It's a testament to the growing versatility within the Vietnamese film industry, showcasing its capacity for grander, more fantastical narratives beyond historical dramas or social commentaries. For viewers interested in a different facet of Vietnamese filmmaking, especially those keen on martial arts and fantastical elements, it offers a compelling, albeit less polished, alternative.