The Cinema Department, in collaboration with various units, is organizing a film series from 25/4 to 23/5 to commemorate major national holidays. "Dia Dao - Mat troi trong bong toi", directed by Bui Thac Chuyen, has been selected as the opening film. It will be screened on the evening of 25/4 at the Quang Ninh Exhibition, Fair and Planning Palace in Quang Ninh province.

Cast of "Dia Dao". Photo: Film crew

Released in 2025, "Dia Dao" quickly became a hit, grossing over 170 billion VND and earning the Silver Lotus for Best Feature Film at the 24th Vietnam Film Festival. The film's narrative centers on a group of 21 guerrillas who remained entrenched in Cu Chi following the 1967 US Operation Cedar Falls. Commander Bay Theo, portrayed by actor Thai Hoa, leads his team in protecting a strategic intelligence group. Their communications are soon discovered by enemy forces, placing the guerrillas in perilous situations and subjecting them to numerous sweeps. This project commemorates 50 years of national reunification and was funded through socialized capital.

A notable aspect of "Dia Dao" is Thai Hoa's compelling performance as Commander Bay Theo, alongside the film crew's significant efforts in art design for the settings. Most scenes unfold underground, making filming in tight spaces a major challenge. Given that few previous productions had extensively filmed the Cu Chi war, Bui Thac Chuyen's team had to meticulously construct most of the interior scenes.

The song "Mat troi trong bong toi" (composed by Hua Kim Tuyen) - soundtrack of "Dia Dao". Video: Film crew

Beyond "Dia Dao", the event will showcase a diverse selection of films, including documentaries and animated features. Documentaries such as: "Theo dau chan cha", "Bac si o xa dao", "Cuu binh pho co", "Giay do - cuoc hanh trinh tro ve", and "Hai chien tuyen" will be featured. The animated film lineup includes: "Chu be loat choat", "Loi hua Dien Bien", "Vang sang am ap", "Nhung vien bi sac mau", "Poocbaga". Screenings will occur in cinemas and through mobile film teams, with some works also released on digital platforms. The series runs until 23/5, encompassing celebrations for the 30/4, 1/5, 7/5, and 19/5 holidays. Organizers aim for the film series to promote cultural values, educate on historical traditions, and foster an enthusiastic atmosphere for upcoming major events.

Mai Nhat