Amidst the recent surge of horror films dominating the box office, The Last Wish offers a refreshing change of pace, bringing audiences back to familiar themes of friendship and family. The film evokes memories of youth while proving that emotional stories, especially those centered around family, still hold a powerful resonance with viewers. The film premiered in theaters nationwide on 2/7 at 7 PM.

Friendship as a catalyst for family connection

The film opens with Hoang's (Avin Lu) seemingly naive wish—to experience manhood before he dies. Instead of exploiting the theme of losing one's virginity in a shocking or provocative way, the film takes a delicate approach, portraying the legitimate yearning and life ideals of an 18-year-old. From there, the film explores profound themes of friendship, family, and intergenerational understanding through the journey to fulfill this last wish, conveying messages about the desire for life, genuine friendship, and deep family bonds.

The film portrays the generational gap within families. Photo: The Last Wish.

One of the film's highlights is the friendship among the three central characters: Hoang, Long (Quynh Ly), and Thy (Hoang Ha). They are not portrayed as idealized heroes but as ordinary friends with a simple promise: "If you ever need me, I'll be there." Upon learning of Hoang's secret desire, both Long and Thy choose to support him, helping him fulfill his wish despite parental objections.

Their sincere, sometimes clumsy friendship makes audiences laugh at their naive schemes, then pause, touched by the depth of their bond. Hoang Ha's portrayal of Thy offers a surprising and subtle twist related to gender identity and self-acceptance. This narrative is presented gently, broadening perspectives on gender diversity and boundary-less friendship.

Above all, the most enduring emotion is the familial love skillfully interwoven into the trio's journey of growth. The generational gap, silent communication, and unspoken words are depicted through quiet, moving scenes.

Avin Lu portrays a son who hides his physical pain to preserve precious moments with his parents. Quynh Ly embodies a rebellious son yearning for his father's approval. Hoang Ha plays a daughter who understands her mother's struggles but grapples with emotional distance.

The trio Hoang (Avin Lu), Thy (Hoang Ha), and Long (Ly Hao Manh Quynh) on their journey to fulfill a last wish, encountering many humorous situations. Photo: The Last Wish.

Tien Luat, Dinh Y Nhung, and the supporting cast maintain the emotional core

From the parents' perspective, the film reflects their approach to parenting through the lens of past experiences. Each parent displays a unique form of love: one tirelessly works for their child's future, another chooses strictness to guide their child's maturity, and yet another desires connection but doesn't know where to begin. This creates a multifaceted portrayal of familial love, where parents also carry their own wounds and unfulfilled dreams.

Tien Luat delivers a memorable performance, balancing humor and sorrow, eliciting both laughter and reflection from the audience. Dinh Y Nhung convincingly portrays a mother facing the imminent loss of her child. Quoc Cuong embodies a stern father through his cold gaze and demeanor. Meanwhile, actress Kieu Anh makes a poignant debut, moving the audience to tears in her first film role.

Tien Luat and Dinh Y Nhung portray parents with a range of emotions. Photo: The Last Wish.

With its relatable message, simple yet refined storytelling, and the harmonious collaboration between the two generations of actors, The Last Wish delivers a touching story that resonates with audiences, especially those who cherish family values and friendship.

Nhat Le