Dinh Viet Tuong recently gained recognition for his role as Nhan in the film "The Human Trafficking Camp". Nhan, a disabled victim, is entrapped in a human trafficking ring in a border region. His character suffers from Tourette syndrome, living in constant fear and enduring frequent abuse from his captors.

A central emotional arc of the film explores the relationship between Nhan and his mother, portrayed by artist Nhu Quynh. After a long separation, they reunite in the camp. His mother quietly attends to him, singing lullabies and attempting to ease his suffering within the brutal setting.

For Viet Tuong, the most challenging scene was not Nhan's physical abuse, but witnessing his mother being attacked by the captors, unable to protect her. He shared that this internal conflict between filial love and helplessness remained with him long after production concluded.

Dinh Viet Tuong performs with artist Nhu Quynh in "The Human Trafficking Camp". *Video: Film crew*.

Nhan's character mirrors Viet Tuong's real-life experiences, including involuntary movements, feelings of inferiority, and daily challenges. To embody the role, Viet Tuong channeled his personal struggles into Nhan's plight: a person stripped of freedom, living in fear, and watching loved ones suffer. He aimed for more than just a portrayal of Tourette syndrome's physical tics. Instead, Viet Tuong emphasized Nhan's gaze, silence, evasiveness, and reactions to others, conveying the passivity of someone constantly disempowered.

Viet Tuong's foray into acting began with a call from producer Bich Trang. Initially, he hesitated to accept the role, citing his lack of acting experience and the character Nhan's demanding psychological scenes. He also worried his condition might disrupt filming. However, after encouragement from the crew, Viet Tuong submitted an audition tape. Positive feedback from the production team convinced him to accept the part.

Viet Tuong has managed his rare condition for 10 years. Born in 2002 in Vinh Linh, Quang Tri, he grew up with his mother, lacking a paternal presence. Around age 13, he started exhibiting unusual symptoms: convulsions, constant blinking, loss of body control, and occasional self-harm. These symptoms intensified, but he initially did not know their cause.

While watching a film, he noticed a character exhibiting similar symptoms, leading him to realize he might have Tourette syndrome, a tic disorder. This neurological condition causes involuntary movements or sounds. Subsequently, Viet Tuong began researching his condition and learning to manage its symptoms.

Dinh Viet Tuong at a premiere for "The Human Trafficking Camp". *Photo: Film crew*.

His early school years were challenging. He often faced curious stares, laughter, and mimicry from peers. Despite sensing an impending tic, he could not prevent his body's involuntary reactions. "The most helpless thing is feeling an episode coming and being unable to control it," he shared on the "Love Station" program in 2022.

In high school, Viet Tuong's confidence grew as teachers and friends offered understanding. Recognizing his passion for singing, a teacher encouraged him to join cultural activities. He observed that singing or dancing seemed to alleviate his symptoms. He began entering local singing and dancing competitions, eventually moving to TP HCM to study music and work part-time. Music became his conduit for overcoming shyness and connecting with others.

In 2025, Viet Tuong competed in "All-Round Rookie". Though he did not reach the top 30, his singing, dancing, and personal story garnered significant attention. Following the show, his social media following increased, leading to numerous performance offers.

A notable milestone occurred in 5/2025, when he was a guest performer at Bui Cong Nam's concert in TP HCM. This marked Viet Tuong's debut on a major music stage. Nervousness caused convulsions and heavy sweating as he addressed the audience. Overwhelmed by their cheers, he wept.

Bui Cong Nam joined him on stage, offering an embrace and encouragement, and they performed "I Am Extraordinary" together. Viet Tuong had previously stated that he never imagined performing on such a grand stage. The audience's applause that day solidified his sense of acceptance. After years of self-consciousness about his condition, he gradually embraced performing for crowds.

Once a boy who feared others' gazes, Viet Tuong now confidently faces stage lights and cameras. He seeks not merely sympathy, but recognition for his artistic capabilities. "I hope to take on more diverse roles to challenge myself and inspire a positive outlook in others," Viet Tuong stated after his performance in "The Human Trafficking Camp".

Ha Thu