Documentary in Vietnam: 5 Essential Films and Production Guide from a Native
- 2BIG Team
- 12 minutes ago
- 6 min read
History is written by the victors. Is this the truth?
Vietnam’s history spans thousands of years, with influences from indigenous groups, Chinese dynasties, French colonialism, and modern developments. Vietnamese experienced multiple colonisations to maintain independence.
Yet, in the age of mass media, our story is often retold through a foreign lens. Iconic works like “The Vietnam War” or “Oh, Saigon” offer powerful perspectives, but they are often interpretations from the outside looking in.
We believe the truths are found in understanding the work of those who inherited the legacy of these struggles. Is there anything similar to the current war for the world to learn?
Let’s explore the best documentary made by Vietnamese and the modern documentary production in Vietnam.
Key takeaways
The 5 Essential Vietnam Documentaries
Here are five documentaries that stand out for their impact, storytelling, and authenticity:
17th Parallel, Nights and Days (1972) by Hải Ninh
Produced at the climax of the war with the U.S. military, "17th Parallel, Nights and Days" carries the magnitude of an epic saga, chronicling the Vietnamese people's heroic resistance to protect their homeland. This war-era masterpiece is based on true events in a coastal commune of Gio Linh. It reenacts the fierce confrontation between the villagers of the "Sand Village," led by the resilient Ms. Dịu (Trà Giang), and the opposing forces commanded by Trần Sùng (Lâm Tới).
The Abandoned Field: Free Fire Zone (1979) by Nguyễn Hồng Sến
"The Abandoned Field: Free Fire Zone" is a definitive cinematic work on the Vietnam War. Set in the vast wetlands of Đồng Tháp Mười during the struggle for Southern liberation, the film’s narrative is concentrated within the confines of a desolate field. However, it masterfully explores the verticality of war—vividly capturing life from beneath the water's surface to the sky above, where American helicopters circle.
The film earned six prestigious awards, most notably the Gold Medal at the Moscow International Film Festival and the Golden Lotus at the Vietnam Film Festival.
The Little Girl of Hanoi (1974) by Hải Ninh
"The Little Girl of Hanoi" is a 1974 landmark production by the Vietnam Feature Film Studio. The story follows Ngọc Hà, a twelve-year-old girl, during the evacuation to the countryside. Upon hearing that her mother and younger sister were buried under the rubble of "Khâm Thiên" Street during US bombings, she bravely journeys back into the heart of Hanoi to find her father, a soldier in a missile unit.
The film remains a poignant symbol of innocence amidst the devastation of war.
Rising Storm (1996) by Huy Thành & Lê Bá Huyến
Adapted from the play of the same name by Đào Hồng Cẩm, "Rising Storm" is a landmark achievement as the first film in Vietnamese cinema to depict the resistance war in the South.
The film is highly regarded not only for its artistic merit but also for serving as a powerful source of inspiration and revolutionary spirit leading up to the liberation of Southern Vietnam in 1975. It was honored with the Golden Lotus for Best Feature Film at the inaugural Vietnam Film Festival in 1970.
On the Same River (1959) by Nguyễn Hồng Nghi & Phạm Kỳ Nam
Release: 1959
Duration: 90 mins
Director: Nguyễn Hồng Nghi & Phạm Kỳ Nam
IMDb: 6.2/10
"On the Same River" is a historic cinematic work set in the aftermath of the 1954 Genève Accords. The narrative centers on the torn-apart love story between Hoài and Vận, who live on opposite banks of the Bến Hải River, serving as a poignant metaphor for the division of the country at that time.
As the first feature film of the Vietnam Revolutionary Cinema and the first production from Northern Vietnam after 1954, it offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the hardships and emotional toll caused by the North-South partition. It remains a foundational piece of Vietnam’s cinematic heritage.
Documentary Film in Vietnam
Vietnamese documentary filmmaking has grown steadily over the past decades. Early works often focused on war and revolution, reflecting the country’s turbulent history. Today, filmmakers explore a wider range of topics: social change, culture, environment, and personal stories.
Vietnamese documentaries tend to blend historical facts with emotional storytelling. They often challenge official narratives and offer fresh perspectives. This approach helps viewers connect deeply with Vietnam’s complex identity.
Vietnam patriarchy is a great opportunity for any war-related documentary; however, modern documentaries are not restricted to the war topic anymore. Vietnam has adapted the latest production technique to make not only warfare, but also educational or celebrity documentaries.
Modern War Documentary in Vietnam: "A Price We Have to Pay"
“A Price We Have to Pay” is a film by Argentine director Ricardo Preve and 2BIG Production about the Argentine photojournalist and war correspondent, Ignacio Ezcurra, who tragically went missing in Saigon, Vietnam, in May 1968. This is more than a missing person case; it is a profound search for truth in the shadow of history.
Educational Documentary in Vietnam: "Children of the Mist"
This documentary follows Di, a 12-year-old H’Mong girl living in the misty mountains of Sapa (Lào Cai province). The film captures her journey from a carefree childhood to the threshold of womanhood, reflecting the profound clash between traditional cultural values and modernity. It highlights the unique challenges faced by ethnic minority girls as they navigate their identity against the backdrop of the "bride kidnapping" custom in their community.
Celebrity Documentary in Vietnam: "Tri Âm the Movie: The Timekeeper"
Vietnamese pop queen My Tam presents a behind-the-scenes look at her landmark Tri Am concert in this emotionally charged documentary released by Netflix.
Documentary Production in Vietnam: An Insider’s Guide
Making documentaries in Vietnam involves unique challenges and opportunities. Here are key points from an insider’s perspective:
Detailed guide on how to make a documentary in Vietnam:
Understanding the Landscape
Vietnam’s diverse geography offers stunning backdrops, from mountains and rivers to bustling cities. Filmmakers must adapt to different environments and local customs.
Navigating Regulations
Documentary projects often require permits from local authorities. Filmmakers should build good relationships with officials and communities to avoid delays.
Funding and Resources
Funding can come from government grants, international organizations, or private sponsors. Independent filmmakers often rely on crowdfunding or partnerships with foreign producers.
Equipment and Technology
Vietnam has growing access to modern filming equipment, but budgets may limit options. Many filmmakers use lightweight digital cameras and drones to capture unique angles.
Storytelling Approach
Vietnamese documentaries emphasize personal stories and emotional depth. Filmmakers often spend months building trust with subjects to capture authentic moments.
Distribution and Audience
Local film festivals, online platforms, and TV channels are common outlets. International festivals also welcome Vietnamese documentaries, helping them reach wider audiences.
At 2BIG Production, we don’t just navigate these complexities—we master them. With a deep-rooted understanding of Vietnam’s regulatory landscape and an uncompromising eye for cinematic storytelling, we serve as the premier local partner for high-end documentary filmmaking.
Whether you require a full-scale production team or an expert "fixer" to bridge the cultural gap, we combine international standards with authentic "native" insights to ensure your story isn't just told, but truly felt. From the remote highlands to the heart of the city, 2BIG is your gateway to capturing the real Vietnam.
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