Singer My Tam and actor Mai Tai Phen are set to star together in the upcoming film "Tai," marking their first on-screen collaboration in six years. My Tam serves as the producer, while Mai Tai Phen takes on the dual role of director and lead actor. The film, which recently unveiled its initial visuals, promises an engaging blend of family drama and action, building anticipation among fans who last saw them together in the 2019 movie "Chi Tro Ly Cua Anh."

Mai Tai Phen portrays the character Tai, a man with a weathered appearance who makes a living as a porter at a fish market in the Mekong Delta. His quiet life belies a challenging past, including years spent smuggling cigarettes in border regions. Tai's history is hinted at through a woman's dialogue: "Once your hands are stained, it is hard to wash them clean." My Tam's role is revealed in a scene where her character cares for an injured Tai, bandaging his wounds while he is in a feverish delirium. This reunion has generated excitement among many viewers, recalling their previous collaboration.

Mai Tai Phen, making his directorial debut in a feature film, described the project as a significant challenge. He expressed hope that the film's entertainment-focused content, which blends various genres like family drama and action, will appeal to a wide audience. My Tam stated her decision to join the project was based on Mai Tai Phen's dynamism and focus. She found the script particularly interesting due to its intertwining of romantic elements and martial arts, which is Mai Tai Phen's forte. This project marks the first time both artists have taken on leading roles in a film's production, whereas in their previous collaboration, Mai Tai Phen was solely the male lead at My Tam's invitation.

Mai Tai Phen and My Tam at the film's opening ceremony. Photo: Character provided

Over the years, My Tam and Mai Tai Phen have often appeared together in various activities. Despite public speculation regarding their romantic relationship, they maintain that they view each other as close friends, sharing joys and sorrows, and supporting one another professionally.

Mai Tai Phen, 32 years old, hails from Bac Lieu and grew up in a business-owning family. He graduated from the Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema in 2016 and began working as a freelance actor. In 2017, Mai Tai Phen won the "Face of Cinema" competition. He gained significant public attention for his roles in Huong Tram's music video "Em Gai Mua" and My Tam's music video "Dung Hoi Em." In 2019, he starred in the film "Chi Tro Ly Cua Anh," produced by My Tam, playing a young man who falls in love with a talented businesswoman. In 2022, he took on the lead role in the web-drama "Binh Bao," which he also directed and wrote. The actor also garnered attention for his portrayal of Vo Tong, a classic character in the 2023 film "Dat Rung Phuong Nam," directed by Quang Dung.

My Tam, Mai Tai Phen in the film "Chi Tro Ly Cua Anh." Photo: Film crew provided

My Tam, 44 years old, graduated as valedictorian from the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music and began singing at 17. With over 20 years in the music industry, she has released nine CDs, all positively received by the public, establishing her as an influential singer in Vietnam. Beyond her singing career, she has also acted, including in the 2010 television series "Cho Mot Tinh Yeu." In 2019, the singer produced "Chi Tro Ly Cua Anh" and consistently released new music, including singles and soundtracks. In 4/2023, she introduced her debut documentary film, "Nguoi Giu Thoi Gian," using its box office revenue for charity.

Mai Nhat