Review: 5 Essential Vietnamese Films You Need

Have you ever felt lost scrolling through endless movie lists, wishing for a hidden gem from Vietnam? It can be tough to find great Vietnamese films. Many people only know a few big names, and it’s hard to know where to start exploring the rich culture and amazing stories the country offers on screen. You might worry about picking something that doesn’t match your taste.

But what if you could easily discover thrilling dramas, funny comedies, and powerful historical tales from Vietnam? This post cuts through the confusion. We have gathered the best and most exciting Vietnamese movies for you. By the end of this guide, you will have a fantastic watchlist ready to go.

Get ready to dive deep into the vibrant world of Vietnamese cinema as we explore must-watch movies that capture the heart and soul of the nation.

Top Vietnamese Films Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Kieu
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Trinh My Duyen, Le Anh Huy, Cao Thai Ha (Actors)
  • Mai Thu Huyen (Director) - Mai Thu Huyen (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Playback Language)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
Bestseller No. 2
The scent of green papaya (Vietnamese Movie DVD with English sub)
  • Tran Nu Yên-Khê, Man San Lu, Thi Loc Truong (Actors)
  • English, Thai (Subtitles)
Bestseller No. 3
Vietnamese Horror Story
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Thanh Truc Huynh, Le Be La, Can Mac (Actors)
  • Tran Huu Tan (Director) - Tran Huu Tan (Writer) - Nguyen Pham Hoang Quan (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)
Bestseller No. 4
Vietnamese Language Shirt - I don't know in Vietnamese
  • Vietnamese Language Shirt - I don't know in Vietnamese. Funny Gag Shirt for language learners
  • Perfect gift for all Students who are studying or learning Vietnamese, Native Vietnamese speaker, or for all Vietnam lover.
  • Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Bestseller No. 5
Dad, I'm Sorry
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Tran Thanh, Tuan Tran, Ngan Chi (Actors)
  • Vu Ngoc Dang (Director) - Ho Thuc An (Writer) - Dang Vinh Hoang (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)
Bestseller No. 6
Window Privacy Film Laos Vietnamese Lake Window Film Static Cling Glass Film
  • Package Includes & Premium Quality:Includes one window privacy film (17.7 W x 23.6 L Inch, 2 piece set).Frosted design offers an elegant, upscale look while softening indoor light for a comfortable ambiance.
  • Easy Installation & Eco-Friendly Design:Non-adhesive, static cling technology—no glue, no residue, and reusable.Simple peel-and-stick installation: Just water and a smooth surface are needed.Note: Requires a completely smooth glass surface for proper application.
  • Superior Privacy & Sunlight Protection:Blocks strong sunlight and prevents outsiders from seeing in, ensuring complete privacy.
  • Versatile Applications:Perfect for windows and glass surfaces in homes, offices, bathrooms, bedrooms, RVs, and more.An affordable and energy-efficient solution for both privacy and decoration.
  • Service:Contact us anytime for questions or support—we’re here to ensure your satisfaction!
Bestseller No. 7
Rom
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Tran Anh Khoa, Anh Tu (Actors)
  • Tran Thanh Huy (Director) - Tran Thanh Huy (Writer) - Vu Quyen Diep (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)
SaleBestseller No. 8
When Heaven and Earth Changed Places: A Vietnamese Woman's Journey from War to Peace
  • Hayslip, Le Ly (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 464 Pages - 04/04/2017 (Publication Date) - Anchor (Publisher)

Your Essential Guide to Buying Vietnamese Films

Vietnamese cinema offers exciting stories and unique cultural views. Buying these films, whether on DVD, Blu-ray, or streaming, lets you explore this rich tradition. Use this guide to find the best viewing experience.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting a Vietnamese film, several features really matter for your enjoyment.

  • Language Options: Check if the film offers original Vietnamese audio. This gives you the most authentic experience.
  • Subtitles: Good quality English subtitles are crucial if you do not speak Vietnamese. Look for subtitle sync accuracy.
  • Aspect Ratio: This describes the shape of the picture. Most modern films use widescreen (16:9). Older films might look smaller if the aspect ratio is wrong.
  • Bonus Content: Special features like behind-the-scenes looks or director interviews add value.
Important Materials (Formats)

The format you choose affects picture quality and durability.

Blu-ray Discs: Blu-ray offers the highest picture and sound quality currently available for physical media. If you want the sharpest image, choose Blu-ray.

DVDs: DVDs are cheaper and widely available. They work on older players. However, the picture resolution is much lower than Blu-ray.

Digital Streaming: Streaming services provide instant access. Quality often depends on your internet speed. Make sure the platform offers HD quality for the best view.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The overall quality of your film purchase depends on production standards and how the film is presented in its final format.

Improving Quality:
  • Restoration: For older classic films, look for “digitally remastered” or “restored” versions. Technicians clean up the film, making colors brighter and sounds clearer.
  • Director’s Cut: Sometimes, the director’s cut shows the film as originally intended. This version often improves storytelling flow.
Reducing Quality:
  • Poor Transfers: A bad transfer means the digital copy was made carelessly from the original film. This results in grainy pictures or muffled sound.
  • Bad Subtitling: Incorrectly timed or translated subtitles seriously hurt the viewing experience. Always read user reviews about subtitle quality.
User Experience and Use Cases

How you plan to watch the film should guide your purchase decision.

For Casual Viewers: If you just want to enjoy the story quickly, digital streaming is usually the easiest choice. You can watch it instantly on a TV or tablet.

For Film Enthusiasts: Collectors and serious film lovers should seek out limited edition Blu-rays. These often include high-quality packaging and exclusive artwork.

Cultural Exploration: If you use Vietnamese films to learn about the culture, prioritize films with clear, accurate subtitles. Contemporary dramas or historical epics work well for this.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying Vietnamese Films

Q: Where can I buy genuine Vietnamese films?

A: You can buy them from large online retailers, specialized world cinema shops, or directly from Vietnamese production company websites.

Q: Are Vietnamese films usually in black and white?

A: No. While older films from the 1950s and 60s were often black and white, most modern Vietnamese films are in vibrant color.

Q: Should I worry about region coding on DVDs?

A: Yes, DVDs are often region-locked. A film bought for Region 1 (North America) might not play on a player from Region 3 (Asia). Blu-rays are less frequently region-locked, but you should still check.

Q: What is the difference between Vietnamese cinema and Hollywood cinema?

A: Vietnamese films often focus more on family relationships, historical struggles, and local community life. The pacing can sometimes be slower than fast-paced Hollywood action movies.

Q: How do I know if the subtitles are good?

A: Check product reviews specifically mentioning the subtitle quality. If reviews say the subtitles are “clunky” or “missing lines,” avoid that version.

Q: Are Vietnamese films always very serious or sad?

A: Not at all. Vietnam produces many successful comedies, romance films, and action thrillers alongside its serious dramas.

Q: Is streaming reliable for Vietnamese films?

A: Streaming is generally reliable, but the available catalog changes often. You might find a wider selection on dedicated arthouse streaming platforms.

Q: Do Vietnamese films often win international awards?

A: Yes, several Vietnamese directors and films gain recognition at major international festivals like Cannes or Busan.

Q: What is a good starting point film for a beginner?

A: Look for popular modern hits like “Cyclo” (for classic impact) or recent box-office successes, as these usually have the best modern technical quality.

Q: How do I clean Blu-ray discs if they skip?

A: Gently wipe the shiny side of the disc using a soft, lint-free cloth. Always wipe from the center hole straight out to the edge, never in circles.