Vietnamese Film to Screen at ASEAN Film Festival 2026 in Hong Kong

A film inspired by mysterious Vietnamese folk legends surrounding the tomb of Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang will be screened at the ASEAN Film Festival 2026 (DANAFF IV) in Hong Kong. The movie is presented as a martial arts epic, blending historical fantasy with themes of family, love, brotherhood, unwavering loyalty to the sovereign, and noble sacrifice, as it follows a gripping journey to protect the final secret of Vietnam's first emperor. DANAFF IV, which has previously been held under the theme "Bridging Asia" for three editions, has adopted the new theme "Bridging Asia to the World," reflecting its ambition to connect Vietnamese cinema more closely with regional and global film industries. The film was highly praised at the award ceremony held in Macau on May 21 for its authentic setting, refined cinematography, and understated storytelling. The jury commended director Leon Le's emotional depth and visual sensitivity, which helped the film resonate strongly with audiences. Under Vietnam's one-party system, the promotion of arts and culture is positioned as a key policy to foster national unity and enhance soft power. Participation in international film festivals like this provides an opportunity to promote Vietnam's rich cultural heritage globally and increase its presence in the international film market. As Vietnam continues its economic growth, it is exploring new growth engines through cultural exports. Furthermore, with increasingly complex relations with China, strengthening cooperation with ASEAN countries is a crucial pillar of Vietnam's foreign policy, with cultural exchanges being an integral part of this effort. Information source: VietnamPlus English