Vietnamese Cinema Takes Center Stage in Paris with “Journey of Light” Festival
Table of Contents
A vibrant celebration of Vietnamese film and culture has launched in Paris, attracting over 2,700 attendees from 23 countries to Le Grand Rex, Europe’s largest cinema and a landmark of the French capital. The “Vietnamese Cinema Week – Journey of Light” festival, which began on December 5th and runs through December 12th, aims to foster artistic exchange and strengthen cultural ties between Vietnam and France.
A Hub for International Collaboration
The event is a collaborative effort between the Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA) and AVSE Global – the Association of Vietnamese Scientists and Experts – and is held under the patronage of the Vietnamese Embassy in France. This partnership underscores a commitment to promoting Vietnamese cinema on an international platform. The festival has quickly become a dynamic space for the French public, the Vietnamese diaspora in Europe, and enthusiasts of Vietnamese filmmaking.
Historical Significance and Commemorative Timing
The timing of the festival is particularly poignant, as 2025 will mark significant anniversaries for Vietnam. According to a senior official, the event highlights the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975–2025) and the 80th National Day (September 2, 1945 – 2025). Furthermore, the festival coincides with the 130th anniversary of the Lumière brothers’ groundbreaking public demonstration of the Cinématographe in Paris on December 28, 1895 – a nod to the very origins of cinema.
“Hijacked” Leads a Diverse Program
The festival’s opening showcased the action film “Tu chien tren khong” (Hijacked), a gripping narrative inspired by a 1978 hijacking incident. Beyond the screenings of 17 carefully selected films, the “Journey of Light” offers a rich program including a compelling photo exhibition, opportunities for artist exchanges, and a dedicated Vietnam–France cinema cooperation seminar. Organizers anticipate welcoming a total of 5,000 visitors throughout the week.
Strengthening Franco-Vietnamese Cultural Bonds
The Vietnamese Ambassador to France, Mr. Dinh Toan Thang, expressed optimism that the festival would leave “an unforgettable mark on the journey of Vietnamese cinema and cultural exchange between Vietnam and France.” Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, Chairwoman of the VFDA, emphasized the importance of this cultural bridge, stating that the event represents a significant opportunity to showcase the artistry and storytelling of Vietnamese filmmakers to a wider audience.
The “Vietnamese Cinema Week – Journey of Light” is poised to become a recurring event, solidifying Paris as a key destination for celebrating Vietnamese cinematic excellence and fostering enduring cultural connections.