Chung Chi Cong, a jury member, spoke about the film's success at the launch of the Inspiring Vietnam 2026 short film competition on 24/5 in Ho Chi Minh City. The film, released in late February, earned 44 billion VND, a record for a domestic musical film, and generated positive word-of-mouth.
Director "thank you for staying awake with me" talks about the film motivating young people. Video: Mai Nhat
The director shared that the film's ability to inspire many young viewers was one of the most moving aspects. During the film's initial release, he met a young woman at a cine-tour event in Ha Noi. She explained that despite being a dancer, she received no support from family or friends; no one believed she could succeed in her profession. Her dance teacher, who encouraged her to see the film, was her only supporter.
A month later, upon returning to Ha Noi, Chung Chi Cong coincidentally met the same viewer. She informed him that, inspired by the film, she had bravely auditioned and secured a supporting role in a television series.
The director noted that throughout the film's run, he received widespread empathy from audiences. Many viewers purchased tickets five or six times, explaining that the movie reminded them of passions they had set aside for their livelihoods. Several colleagues contacted Chung Chi Cong to inquire about his experience making musical films, as they wished to undertake similar projects.
Trailer "thank you for staying awake with me". Video: *Film crew*
Previously, "thank you for staying awake with me" was expected to struggle at the box office due to a lack of "box office stars"; singer Nguyen Hung was the only recognized face. Chung Chi Cong explained that he chose actors based on their suitability for the characters and their understanding of the film's spirit. "Many young people told me they felt insecure, believing they were 'nobodies' in the film industry," he said. "Through this work, I want to encourage them, to show them they are not anonymous, simply awaiting their fortunate moment on this path."
"Thank you for staying awake with me" follows Mong Hoai (Vo Phan Kim Khanh) and Minh Hieu (Tran Doan Hoang). The two were childhood friends. Hoai, who lost her mother, grew up under the care of her father (artist Huu Chau). Hieu lived with his maternal grandfather, aspiring to become a comic book artist. A family tragedy later separated them.
Many years later, in their twenties, they reunited by chance on a train to Ho Chi Minh City. They discussed their childhood dreams, gradually developing feelings for each other. Hieu pursued a career in advertising storyboard art, while Hoai aspired to be an actress. However, their passions faced numerous challenges due to the pressures of making a living.
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Director Chung Chi Cong. Photo: *Provided by subject*
Chung Chi Cong, 40, graduated from the University of Foreign Trade Ho Chi Minh City before transitioning to filmmaking. In 2018, he served as screenwriter and art director for the feature film "Nham Mat Thay Mua He". Although not a box office hit, the film launched the career of its lead actress, Phuong Anh Dao. In 2019, he debuted his first film, "Troi Sang Roi Ta Ngu Di Thoi". Beyond filmmaking, he has directed numerous TV commercials and music videos.
The Inspiring Vietnam short film competition is part of the Inspiring Asia Short Film Festival. The event, themed "Empowering Communities," seeks works addressing social realities and contributing to the elimination of prejudice. The "excellent short film" category is open to individuals and filmmaking teams aged 18 and above. Submissions are accepted until 25/7, with results announced in late August. The top 6 films will receive a support fund of 2,000 USD (nearly 53 million VND) each, alongside a "promising director" award valued at 1,000 USD.
Mai Nhat
