Narratives about Vietnam often revolve around the discourse of “war,” given the country’s long history of resistance and rebellion. When it comes to movie recommendations, wartime films usually top the list. While those are certainly worth watching, Vietnam is so much more than war-bound narratives. The country is also beautifully portrayed through other themes—such as the idea of womanhood and the innocence of childhood set against stunning natural scenery.
Even though the upcoming list includes one or two films about war, they focus more on the emotions it evokes rather than the intensity of the battlefield.
As November approaches, it’s the perfect time to stay in, grab some popcorn, and enjoy a cozy movie night. You ready?
Mùi Đu Đủ Xanh (The Scent of Green Papaya / L’Odeur de la papaye verte)
The debut feature film of Vietnamese-born director Trần Anh Hùng, Mùi Đu Đủ Xanh is considered one of his finest works. The film received numerous accolades, including the Caméra d’Or at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival, and was also nominated for the 1993 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
The story follows Mùi, a young girl who works as a maid from an early age in a well-off Saigon family, and later at the home of a pianist named Khuyến, with whom she gradually becomes infatuated.
Hùng has always been fascinated by portraying Vietnamese women through his distinct artistic lens. Told through a linear timeline—from the moment Mùi is hired, to her witnessing the changes within the family—Mùi Đu Đủ Xanh engages the audience’s senses through its stunning visuals and delicate sound design. The image of women is portrayed beautifully, and at times tragically, against the backdrop of a patriarchal society.
If you’re drawn to the magic of visual artistry, this film captures it with remarkable grace—an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Bao Giờ Cho Đến Tháng Mười (When the Tenth Month Comes)
Hailed by CNN as one of the 18 greatest Asian films of all time, Bao Giờ Cho Đến Tháng 10 is a cult classic that consistently tops lists of must-watch Vietnamese films.
Set in a rural village in northern Vietnam, the film tells the story of Duyên, portrayed by actress Lê Vân, who learns that her husband has died on the battlefield a year earlier. Devastated by the news—and determined to protect her ailing father-in-law from the truth—Duyên, with the help of a teacher named Khang, hides her husband’s death from the family.
There are no battle scenes, no bloodshed, no sounds of bombing as often portrayed in war films. Instead, the movie focuses on the quiet, enduring grief of those left behind—the ordinary people who must learn to move forward with life despite their losses. Director Đặng Nhật Minh presents Duyên’s story as a reflection of the pain experienced by countless Vietnamese who lost loved ones to war.
The lingering question remains: How do we move on after losing someone we love? How do we heal the wound left behind?
Tôi Thấy Hoa Vàng Trên Cỏ Xanh (Yellow Flowers on the Green Grass)
Adapted from the beloved novel Tôi Thấy Hoa Vàng Trên Cỏ Xanh by renowned children’s author Nguyễn Nhật Ánh, the movie attracted national attention when it was announced to be directed by the acclaimed Victor Vũ. Fans of Nguyễn Nhật Ánh eagerly anticipated the adaptation, excited to see their cherished childhood characters brought to life on screen.
Set in a small countryside village, Tôi Thấy Hoa Vàng Trên Cỏ Xanh does not rely on a dramatic plot; instead, it offers vignettes of childhood innocence. The film beautifully explores themes of adolescence, friendship, and young love. With its breathtaking and vivid cinematography, it is a feel-good, coming-of-age, slice-of-life movie—perfect for a cozy movie night.
Ba Mùa (Three Seasons)
Met with critical acclaim, Ba Mùa captures Ho Chi Minh City during the transitional period of the Đổi Mới era. Set in the city formerly known as Sài Gòn, the film portrays the past, present, and future of HCMC as it grapples with the changes brought by capitalism.
Ba Mùa is another poetic choice for a relaxed movie night. Visually striking and steeped in nostalgia, the film offers a sensory-rich glimpse into Vietnam during a time of transformation. It allows you to feel and see Vietnam through a unique artistic lens, beyond the familiar narratives of war.
Our students also recommend:
Áo lụa Hà Đông (The White Silk Dress)
Thiên mệnh anh hùng (Blood Letter)
Em bé Hà Nội (Girl from Hanoi)
And you? Any favorite Vietnamese films?
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Planning to do something this Autumn?
Join us on Sunday, November 16th, for Tiếng Việt Ơi’s Cooking Class – Mâm Cơm Việt! 
Spots are limited to ensure a quality experience, so find out more HERE and book early to secure your place!
