Backdrop preview Big in Vietnam backdrop
Big in Vietnam

Big in Vietnam (2012)

Jun 21, 2012 28m Drama

Film following a Vietnamese director's wanderings through Marseille after her lead actor goes missing. Karaoke, beach sunrises and diaspora reminiscences.

Directed by Mati Diop

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Mati Diop
Writer
  • Mati Diop
  • Thierry de Peretti
Producer
  • Antonin Dedet

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Big in Vietnam examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Mati Diop brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Big in Vietnam took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 28 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 73 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2012, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Big in Vietnam shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Testament, which focuses more on action than character development, Big in Vietnam subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Descent and Antonia's Line explore similar territory, Big in Vietnam stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 21, 2012
  • Runtime: 28m

Similar Movies

Testament
Testament
1983
6.4
Descent
Descent
2007
4.3
Antonia's Line
Antonia's Line
1995
7.0
Whispers
Whispers
2015
4.9