Following the success of his debut film, Wandering Souls, director Hoang Nam is embarking on his second project, Grandma, Don't Be Sad. The film tells the story of Tien (actor yet to be announced), a young man building his life in Hanoi, who cherishes the memory of his grandmother who raised him with love and sacrifice. As he navigates his career, Tien faces various challenges from society and his family, especially as younger generations drift from traditional roots.
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Nang Mo as Trang, the female lead. Photo: Film crew |
Nang Mo as Trang, the female lead. Photo: Film crew
The script avoids melodrama, offering a realistic and poignant portrayal of modern Hanoi, where individuals strive for success while still valuing tradition.
Renowned artist Thanh Hoa plays Nga Tu, a gentle and forgiving yet principled grandmother who provides a source of strength for her family in the fast-paced modern world. The artist accepted the role due to her love for family and her audience.
"At 75, portraying a devoted grandmother feels like telling my own story and the stories of countless Vietnamese grandmothers and mothers," Thanh Hoa said.
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Director Hoang Nam discusses a scene with renowned artist Thanh Hoa and Nang Mo (left). Photo: Film crew |
Director Hoang Nam discusses a scene with renowned artist Thanh Hoa and Nang Mo (left). Photo: Film crew
Born Nguyen Thi Thanh in Hanoi, Thanh Hoa began singing at 9, winning first place in the Ha Dong Singing Competition. After graduating from the Vietnam Music School (now the Hanoi Conservatory), she joined the Liberation Radio Station. In 1974, she performed for troops during the Ho Chi Minh Campaign. At the end of 1975, she joined the Voice of Vietnam, working there until her retirement in 2006. She is known for her clear, soaring voice and timeless songs like Love of Land and Water, The Canal We Dug, His Train Through the Mountains, and Love on the Quan Ho River. In 2001, she was awarded the title of People's Artist.
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Nang Mo has many scenes exploring her character's inner thoughts. Photo: Film crew |
Nang Mo has many scenes exploring her character's inner thoughts. Photo: Film crew
The production team sees Nang Mo, a standout contestant on Vietnam's Next Top Model 2025, as a key addition. In her film debut, she captures the emotions of Trang, the intelligent but stubborn granddaughter of Nga Tu, who witnesses many changes in her family dynamics.
"I'm touched and excited to act alongside renowned artist Thanh Hoa. This first role is a huge, precious gift," Nang Mo said.
Nang Mo, whose real name is Le Minh Tra My, is 19 and from Hanoi. Her TikTok account has over 400,000 followers, drawn to her poetic and vintage-inspired videos. Director Hoang Nam chose the Gen Z star for her cinematic face and natural acting style.
The film is primarily set in Hanoi, from old quarters and communal courtyards to suburban villages. "The team hopes the film resonates with viewers not through grand special effects, but through simple emotions, poignant dialogue, and images rich in Vietnamese spirit," Hoang Nam added.
Grandma, Don't Be Sad is scheduled for nationwide release on 12/12.
Dong Ve
