According to Box Office Vietnam, the film by directors Bao Nhan and Nam Cito earned over 5 billion VND. This figure is modest compared to the high production costs, partly due to the AI reworking. Previously, the production team stated they received domestic support for the imagery. However, the increased expenses caused difficulties, impacting marketing and promotion.
Initially slated for release on 8/3, the film was postponed due to extended post-production and controversy surrounding the lead actress. After months without promotion, the producers set a new release date of 8/8.
Upon release, the AI-generated appearance of the female lead, Hoang Linh, sparked debate. The virtual character performed adequately in simple dialogue scenes but faltered in segments requiring emotional depth and complex interaction. Opening with 3 billion VND, box office revenue declined in subsequent weeks. By 28/8, Box Office Vietnam reported only three screenings nationwide, all without ticket sales.
The film explores human connection and generational gaps, revolving around two contrasting characters. Mr. An (Quyen Linh) is a ride-hailing driver, while Hoang Linh (AI actress, replacing Miss Thuy Tien) is the young CEO of a livestreaming company. They meet when Mr. An participates in one of Hoang Linh's sales events. His ability to attract viewers and boost sales leads to his employment. Quyen Linh and Hong Dao received praise for their portrayal of the loneliness of two elderly neighbors.
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The AI-generated image of the female lead. Photo: Provided by the film crew. |
Mr. Dang Tran Cuong, Director of the Cinema Department, stated that the regulatory body sought legal advice to ensure the film complies with personal rights, image rights, and the Cinema Law. The film's approval aimed to facilitate access to global cinematic trends, particularly in AI.
According to Mr. Cuong, this reflects the spirit of Resolution 57 of the Central Committee on the development and application of smart technology and national digital transformation, including the film industry. "From a management perspective, we encourage film production units to apply technology in a controlled and legal manner," he stated.
Globally, several films have faced controversy over alleged AI overuse. In 2024, the film "A Legend" used technology to de-age actor Jackie Chan (playing the ancient general Zhao Yun) from 70 to 27. Many viewers found Chan's appearance unnatural after the edits, lacking emotional expression even in dramatic scenes.
Miss Thuy Tien was detained by the Ministry of Public Security's Investigation Police Agency (C01) for alleged violations related to Kera candy in a case involving Hang Du Muc and Quang Linh Vlogs.
Nguyen Thuc Thuy Tien, 27, from Ho Chi Minh City, studied international hotel and restaurant management at Hoa Sen University. She was crowned Miss Grand International in December 2021 in Thailand. The title brought her numerous advertising contracts and brand ambassador roles, making her a prominent figure in fashion and television game shows. "Chot Don" is Thuy Tien's second film, following "Linh Mieu" (directed by Luu Thanh Luan), which earned over 87 billion VND, according to Box Office Vietnam.
With "Chot Don" leaving theaters, two Vietnamese films remain. As of the evening of 28/8, "Mua Do" reached 200 billion VND, surpassing "Dia Dao" to become the highest-grossing war film. "Lam Giau Voi Ma 2" earned 5.5 billion VND in early screenings.
Que Chi
