A scene featuring Chi Bao and Nguyen Vu in the final episode of 'Luc Van Tien'. *Video: TFS*

Phuong Dien, one of the three directors of the film, introduced a series of behind-the-scenes photos he took with a film camera in 2004. Chi Bao played the lead role in this adaptation of the epic poem by poet Nguyen Dinh Chieu. Upon its release, the film gained acclaim thanks to its bright young cast, impressive settings, and costumes.

Actor Cao Minh Dat portrayed Trinh Ham, the antagonist who harmed Luc Van Tien. Previously, he gained recognition for his supporting role in director Do Phu Hai's film 'Nhung Dua Con Thanh Pho'.

Chi Bao revealed that he initially aimed for the villainous role of Trinh Ham, drawn to its psychologically complex scenes. However, director Do Phu Hai ultimately cast him as Luc Van Tien, believing his demeanor better suited the character.

Before 'Luc Van Tien', Chi Bao was already a prominent actor in Southern Vietnamese cinema, known for works such as 'Nguoi Dep Tay Do' and 'Dong Tien Xuong Mau'. Now, at age 53, he has retired from acting to pursue business, building a home with his wife, Ly Thuy Chang.

Artist Phuoc Sang played Bui Kiem, one of the main antagonists. This role earned him a Mai Vang Award for Best Television Actor in 2004. Following the film, he made a name for himself in film production, becoming a renowned impresario in the 2000s.

A humorous scene from the film. When the project began filming in 2002, Ho Chi Minh City Television Film Studio (TFS) invested 500 million dong to sew 800 traditional costumes.

Than Thuy Ha played Princess Ngoc Diep. Before her debut film role, she was a famous model in the 1990s. Following the success of this role, she became a familiar face on screen. In 2025, she garnered attention for her role as a mother in 'Mua Do', a film about the battle to protect the ancient citadel of Quang Tri.

A scene recreating the imperial court examination.

Nguyen Vu played Vuong Tu Truc (left), the protagonist's companion. To embody the character, he spent half a year studying swordsmanship, wushu, and horseback riding.

At that time, he was a popular singer with hit songs such as 'Tinh Yeu Tham Kin', 'Hay Yeu Nguoi Den Sau', and 'Mo Nhung Ngay Ben Nhau'. His handsome features and natural acting led to further roles in films like 'Lay Vo Sai Gon' and 'Dollars Trang'.

Characters studied literature and practiced martial arts in secluded mountain valleys, awaiting their journey to the capital for the imperial examination.

Luc Van Tien is a renowned Nom epic poem by the great poet Nguyen Dinh Chieu, composed in the luc bat (six-eight) verse form and first published in 1889. The story revolves around Luc Van Tien, a righteous scholar. One day, on his way to the imperial examination, he fought off robbers and rescued Kieu Nguyet Nga, a young lady of noble birth. Grateful for his heroic deed, Kieu Nguyet Nga vowed to be with him to repay his kindness. Many films have been inspired by the tale, including 'Luc Van Tien: Tuyet Dinh Kungfu', released in 2016.

Mai Nhat

Photos: Courtesy of subjects