Movies about Vietnam

To truly appreciate movies about Vietnam, it's important to recognize how cinema has both reflected and shaped global perceptions of this dynamic country. For those wishing to immerse themselves in the complexities of Vietnam's history, culture, and cinematic artistry, a trip to Vietnam invites you to experience the settings and stories that inspired countless filmmakers, from the lush Mekong Delta to the bustling streets of Saigon and the misty mountains of the north.

From Vietnam War movies to poetic dramas, here is a list of our favourite movies about Vietnam, hand-picked by our Travel Experts.

The Enduring Influence of Vietnam War Films

American and international films about the Vietnam War have profoundly shaped the world's understanding of both Vietnam and the conflict itself. Classics like:

• The Deer Hunter (1978)
• Apocalypse Now (1979)
• Rambo: First Blood (1982)
• Platoon (1986)
• Full Metal Jacket (1987)
• Good Morning Vietnam (1987)
• Hamburger Hill (1987)
• Casualties of War (1989)
• We Were Soldiers (2002)

These films focus largely on the psychological struggles, camaraderie, and trauma of American soldiers rather than on the larger historical or political context. While they often present Vietnam as the dramatic backdrop for personal conflict and moral ambiguity, they have also defined the country's international image for decades. The recurring themes—loss of innocence, antiwar sentiment, and the fractured rebirth of soldiers' lives—reflect the tension between public memory and lived experience, not only for Americans but for audiences worldwide. War movies have contributed to a lasting association of Vietnam with conflict, sometimes overshadowing its vibrant culture and resilience.

Vietnamese Filmmaking: Local Voices and New Perspectives

Vietnamese cinema provides a vital counterpoint, emphasizing the enduring strength and humanity of the Vietnamese people. Rather than grandiose battle scenes, local films often tell intimate, emotionally charged stories of family, endurance, and post-war adaptation. For example:

• The Scent of Green Papaya (1993) – This lyrical exploration of daily life in old Saigon gives voice to the subtleties of Vietnamese culture and tradition. Its serene atmosphere stands in contrast to the noise of war-themed films.
• The Quiet American (2002) – Adapted from Graham Greene’s novella, this film skillfully illustrates the complexity of Vietnam’s journey between East and West, colonial past and independent future.

Other key Vietnamese cinema entries include:

• When the Tenth Month Comes (1984) – This classic tells the haunting story of a widow navigating grief and societal pressures after the war among the rural North.
• The White Silk Dress (2006) – Set during wartime but focused on familial sacrifice and the perseverance of tradition.
• Cyclo (1995) – A gritty look at urban life in Ho Chi Minh City, revealing the contrasts of Vietnam in the 1990s.
• Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass (2015) – A coming-of-age film set in the countryside, capturing rural childhood and the everyday landscape of Vietnamese life.
• Chuyen cua Pao (Pao’s Story) (2006) – Explores minority life in the mountains, revealing Vietnam’s rich ethnic diversity and family bonds.

How Vietnamese and Hollywood Films Differ

Vietnamese directors such as Trần Anh Hùng and Đặng Nhật Minh are especially celebrated for their ability to interweave national history with deeply personal storytelling, offering an authentic view of Vietnam rarely found in Western productions.

Films Beyond the War: Cultural and Scenic Vietnam

While the shadow of war looms large in many productions, more recent Vietnamese and international films are shining a light on Vietnam’s breathtaking scenery, fascinating ethnic cultures, and daily rhythms of life:

• The Vertical Ray of the Sun (2000): A beautiful examination of family dynamics in modern Hanoi.
• Mắt Biếc (Dreamy Eyes, 2019): Celebrates youthful love and nostalgia, set against central Vietnam's picturesque backdrop.
• Kong: Skull Island (2017): Though not about Vietnam, this Hollywood blockbuster showcased locations like Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh, sparking interest in these natural wonders among travelers.

Cinema’s Role in Shaping Traveler Perceptions

Historically, movies about Vietnam have colored travelers' expectations—many arrive with ideas shaped by iconic war films. However, cinema is now helping to rewrite that narrative. Newer films invite viewers to discover a land of striking natural beauty, proud traditions, and welcoming people. At Shanti Travel, we often recommend these films to our travelers as an introduction to Vietnam’s layered history and vibrant culture. Experiencing places depicted in these movies—whether it’s sipping coffee in an old Saigon alley or wandering the rice terraces of the north—brings an added depth to any journey through Vietnam.

Whether you’re drawn to the emotional depth of post-war stories, enchanted by gentle depictions of daily life, or inspired by cinematic landscapes, exploring Vietnamese films offers a deeper understanding of the country and what makes it so captivating. Your adventure in Vietnam will be all the richer for it.