Da Nang Asian Film Festival Celebrates Vietnamese Cinema
The Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF) has long been a prestigious event in the film industry, showcasing the best of Asian and Vietnamese cinema. According to a report by Bao Ha Duong, the festival’s recent edition highlighted the country’s rich cinematic history, with a focus on films produced after 1975.
The festival’s organising committee selected a range of films that reflect the breath of the times and are closely linked to the development of Vietnam’s cinema. Notable films include "Wild Field" (1979), "Mother Away from Home" (1980), "Dong Loc Intersection" (1997), "Hanoi 12 Days and Nights" (2002), "Ha Dong Silk Dress" (2006), and "The Scent of Burning Grass" (2011). As noted by Bao Ha Duong, these films were showcased alongside free screenings, exchange programs, and conversations with the film crew.
Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, Director of DANAFF, highlighted the innovation in writing style of films produced after 1975, as cited in the Bao Ha Duong report. These works not only depict the tragedy of war but also explore human destiny and carry a philosophy of life. This shift in focus is a significant development in Vietnamese cinema, as noted by industry experts.
The third Da Nang Asian Film Festival, held from June 29 to July 5, introduced and awarded domestic and international films. The program consisted of two categories: Asian Film and Vietnamese Film, each with six awards, the highest worth 115 million VND. The event featured numerous film screenings, talks, and workshops, providing a platform for experts to evaluate the position of war films in the development of cinema.
As reported by Bao Ha Duong, the festival also included a workshop on Nurturing Talents, supporting young actors and production costs for works. The Project Market provided a valuable opportunity for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talents and gain industry recognition.
In previous years, notable films have won top awards at the festival. For example, "Cu li khong bao nuoc" by director Pham Ngoc Lan won Best Film in the Asian Film category, while "Mai" by Tran Thanh won the awards for Best Vietnamese Film and Best Director. These accolades demonstrate the festival’s commitment to recognising and promoting outstanding cinematic achievements.
The Da Nang Asian Film Festival continues to play a vital role in promoting Vietnamese cinema and showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage. By celebrating the best of Asian and Vietnamese film, the festival provides a platform for industry professionals to come together and share their passion for storytelling. As Bao Ha Duong reports, the festival’s impact on the film industry is undeniable, and its influence will be felt for years to come.
