In the hijacking thriller "Airborne," Kaity Nguyen plays Trinh, a flight attendant who protects passengers during an in-flight emergency. She discussed her process of embodying the character and her career after nearly 10 years in acting.

Following the Ho Chi Minh City premiere on 16/9, Nguyen spoke with former crew members who experienced a similar real-life hijacking. Ngo Kim Thanh, a flight attendant on the original flight, praised Nguyen's performance, saying it evoked the suspense and tension of the 1978 incident. Though Trinh's story wasn't identical to her own, certain scenes resonated with Thanh's memories.

Nguyen expressed gratitude for the feedback and acknowledged the crew's efforts to recreate the story. The experience deepened her respect for how the crew fought the hijackers for nearly an hour.

Actress Kaity Nguyen (right) and Ngo Kim Thanh, a former flight attendant, at the premiere. Photo: Thanh Huyen

Actress Kaity Nguyen (right) and Ngo Kim Thanh, a former flight attendant, at the premiere. Photo: Thanh Huyen

Beyond research and interviews about the original incident, Nguyen's mother was a key inspiration. Her mother had worked as a domestic flight attendant and later in ground services for an airline. Nguyen frequently consulted her mother during filming. Her mother advised her to portray a flight attendant who is always smiling and composed, yet prepared for any situation.

Nguyen also spoke with other relatives who had been flight attendants. Her father was surprised by her resemblance to her mother in her youth, both in appearance and attire.

Kaity Nguyen (left) in character and a photo of the actress's mother as a young flight attendant. Photo: Courtesy of the subject

Kaity Nguyen (left) in character and a photo of the actress's mother as a young flight attendant. Photo: Courtesy of the subject

Several factors motivated Nguyen to take on the role of Trinh, a departure from her previous on-screen personas. First was director Ham Tran, whom she believes excels at telling dramatic and emotional stories. The script, based on a real event in Vietnamese aviation history, also intrigued her. She was drawn to Trinh's strength. Initially overwhelmed and afraid, Trinh's survival instincts drive her to fight back and ensure the passengers' safety and the flight's safe landing.

This film proved physically demanding for Nguyen. While safety was prioritized, and she didn't always need a stunt double, some scenes resulted in injuries, like a chipped toenail from repeatedly kicking a door. The cramped cockpit also led to frequent bumps and bruises.

During fight scenes with Thai Hoa, who plays the lead hijacker Long, some accidental contact occurred. Though Hoa was apologetic, Nguyen encouraged him to continue, prioritizing a smooth collaboration. Their prior film experience together fostered trust and comfort in their roles.

Kaity Nguyen (1:22) in "Airborne" - rated 16+. Video: Courtesy of the film crew

Addressing comments about her role being overshadowed by newcomers like Bao Dinh and Tram Anh, Nguyen stated she isn't pressured by praise or criticism. She's happy when new actors gain recognition, citing Bao Dinh, who plays Long's son, Suu. After filming scenes where Suu tortures Trinh, Nguyen told Dinh, "I'm very impressed with you, and I hope the film brings you the success you deserve." Recognizing the limited opportunities for young actors, she celebrates their successes.

Nguyen believes the growth of Vietnamese cinema relies on collective progress, not just individual success. She credits the guidance of senior colleagues for her own growth and involvement in major projects.

Commenting on the success of recent Vietnamese films with young casts, like "Red Rain," Nguyen expressed her joy at seeing many Gen Z actors rise to prominence. Films like "Airborne" and "Red Rain" offer young talents diverse roles beyond stereotypical characters. She hopes their success will encourage Vietnamese filmmakers to explore genres often considered niche.

Since her 2017 breakout role in "Jailbait," Nguyen has maintained her focus on authenticity. She realized that putting undue pressure on herself could lead to failure. Her primary role, she believes, is as a storyteller alongside the film crew, not as the center of attention.

Beyond acting, Nguyen is also a producer with her own entertainment and media company. She's been pursuing further education, including filmmaking classes with director Charlie Nguyen. This learning process, she feels, alleviates pressure by building her confidence and knowledge.

Kaity Nguyen with Kieu Minh Tuan in "Jailbait" (2017). Video: Courtesy of the film crew

While she occasionally pushes her boundaries by participating in game shows, like "Run for Time" a few months ago, Nguyen feels most at home in cinema. She plans to focus on film, seeing much yet to explore within the field.

Audiences haven't seen Nguyen in a villainous role, something she eagerly anticipates. Acting, she says, offers the exciting opportunity to express hidden aspects of oneself without judgment.

Kaity Nguyen was born in Ho Chi Minh City and raised in the US. Her 2017 debut film "Jailbait," co-starring Kieu Minh Tuan, became the highest-grossing Vietnamese film at the time, earning 171 billion VND. In 2019, she starred alongside Thai Hoa in "Daddy Issues." Her 2020 film "Blood Moon Party" grossed 175 billion VND, ranking among the top 5 Vietnamese box office hits. In 2022, she played Ly Linh in "The Last Egg 5" with Le Khanh and Hong Van, winning "Best Actress" at the 8th Golden Star Awards. Her 2023 film "The Last Wife," directed by Victor Vu, grossed over 100 billion VND.

Mai Nhat