Ho Chi Minh City seminar explores youth imagery in Vietnamese film

The 3rd Literary and Artistic Criticism Program was held in Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on the theme “Decoding the Image of Youth in Vietnamese Films: Reflecting Reality - Recreating the Future.” Organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Propaganda Department, the Theory Council for Literary and Artistic Criticism, and the Ho Chi Minh City Radio and Television Station, the event aimed to connect theoretical criticism with cinematic creativity.

The program included a “Movie Fair” exhibition titled “Shadows of Time,” showcasing milestones in Vietnamese cinema, alongside interactive activities for young people. A central seminar featured experts, managers, and artists discussing how to construct youth figures in film that reflect real life while inspiring positive values.

During the discussions, psychologists and producers emphasized the need for authentic portrayals. Dr. Phi Thi Thu Ha noted that young audiences seek characters they can relate to, including their strengths and weaknesses, rather than idealized figures. Producer Cao Nghia expressed a desire for films to avoid one-way propaganda, instead presenting diverse social perspectives and characters who may face mistakes or loss of faith, allowing for meaningful dialogue and reflection.