* This article contains spoilers.

"Len Huong", a new psychological comedy by directors Khuong Ngoc and Tan Hoang Thong, has quickly topped the weekend box office, grossing nearly 30 billion VND after three days of release. The film's success is largely attributed to the transformative performance of actress Hong Dao, who takes on a challenging new role as Mrs. Mui, a lonely and deeply wounded mother.

The movie delves into the underexplored world of funeral services, blending psychological drama with comedy. It follows Tam (Vo Tan Phat), a struggling young man who delivers roasted duck, desperate to find money for his ailing mother (Tuyet Thu). His path crosses with Mrs. Mui (Hong Dao), the owner of a struggling coffin business, who proposes a "coffin ritual for good fortune"—a traditional belief that lying in a coffin can bring prosperity—in exchange for generous compensation.

Hong Dao's portrayal of Mrs. Mui stands out as a fresh departure from her previous roles. Initially presented as gruff and rude, Mrs. Mui endures public scrutiny and disdain, often perceived as opportunistic. She rarely explains herself, accustomed to gossip and misunderstanding.

While Mrs. Mui appears infrequently in the initial 20 minutes, her repressed emotions soon emerge, making her central to the narrative. Beneath her tough exterior, she harbors deep wounds, struggling to preserve her family business after her husband's death, even as relatives shun her. Hong Dao's restrained performance prevents the character from becoming a mere antagonist, carefully controlling her expressions and voice. Director Gia Bao praised the role as Hong Dao's most distinctive, stating, "I think few could portray the depth of this character like Hong Dao."

Hong Dao continues her lead role in Khuong Ngoc's film. *Photo: Film crew provided*

Hong Dao accepted the role, drawn to characters that can surprise audiences. She immersed herself in the character's emotions from reading the script to stepping onto the set. For difficult scenes scheduled early in production, she collaborated with young actors, discussing their approach to ensure consistent performances. She even visited coffin business owners to research her role.

The film benefits from a strong ensemble cast. Veteran artist Hong Van delivers a humorous performance as Mrs. Sau, a mother with an anxiety disorder, constantly worried about her son's health. In a more tragic vein, Tuyet Thu portrays a terminally ill mother, dedicated to her child until the end. A memorable scene features the three mothers meeting in a hospital, sharing tears and laughter while discussing their children.

Among the younger actors, Vo Tan Phat competently plays Tam, a struggling young man willing to do anything for his mother. Quoc Khanh adds comedic relief with humorous dialogue, while Ha Anh, returning after "Mua Do", impresses in a scene opposite a veteran artist.

Artist Hong Van (left) plays Mrs. Sau, a mother with an anxiety disorder. *Photo: Film crew provided*

Despite a simple script, directors Khuong Ngoc and Tan Hoang Thong employ confident storytelling to create an engaging narrative. The first half effectively uses black comedy, providing laughter amidst ironic situations. Mrs. Mui, Tam, and supporting characters Anh (Ha Anh), Quang (Quoc Khanh), and Thuong (Thieu Lan) form a dedicated funeral service team, handling everything from makeup for the deceased to logistics. Initial successes give way to tragicomic events when their agreement is exposed.

The directors subtly embed themes of human fate within the funeral scenes, depicting individuals who die young, live solitary lives, or whose families turn funerals into ostentatious displays. This leads to the film's core message: People often realize the value of family bonds and life's impermanence only when facing loss.

The director utilizes unusual camera angles and metaphorical shots, enhancing the narrative. Confined spaces evoke a suffocating feeling as Tam lies in the coffin, with the lid slowly closing and light casting on his desperate face. In the climax, a heavy rain extinguishes a fire, symbolizing the characters' mistakes being washed away and a fresh start. Director Ly Minh Thang praised the film's bold pacing, effective use of setting, and a neat, sharp narrative rich in emotional diversity. Actress Diep Bao Ngoc confessed to crying multiple times while watching, though she felt some scenes were staged.

Mai Nhat