Lê Bảo’s film ‘Hearing’ explores sound and solitude at Locarno

Vietnamese filmmaker Lê Bảo’s second feature film, ‘Hearing’ (Thính Giác), has been showcased at the Locarno Film Festival. The film explores themes of silence, solitude, and the emotional weight of sound through the life of Ninh (Nguyễn Quốc Tuấn), a divorced father who earns a living installing decibel meters in various locations, including bars, private homes, and rainforests.

Moving between the urban landscape of Saigon and the countryside, the film prioritizes sensory experience and auditory detail over traditional narrative. It follows Ninh as he navigates complex family dynamics, including his relationship with his mother and his longing for his ex-wife and children. The work is noted for its focus on the importance of listening and how silence can represent both peace and emotional distance.