At the event, Minister of National Defense General Phan Van Giang recalled with deep emotion the painful yet heroic memories of the war through stories told by veterans who fought in the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel. He emphasized that “Red Rain,” adapted from the novel of the same name by Senior Colonel and writer Chu Lai, was a project carefully directed by the Central Military Commission, the Ministry of National Defense, and the GDP. The film is a practical project to mark the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19) and National Day (September 2).
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Defense leaders and artists posing for joint photo at the event |
Beyond vividly portraying the fierce battles, the film moves audiences with its humanistic details that highlight the comradeship and solidarity among soldiers, the close bond between the military and the people, and the silent yet noble sacrifices of those who shaped the nation’s glorious history. With box-office revenue exceeding VND 713 billion and more than 8.3 million viewers, including some who watched it multiple times, the film has demonstrated a powerful social impact.
Its most distinctive achievement lies in its profound depiction of Uncle Ho’s soldiers with noble qualities, embodying the revolutionary heroism of the Ho Chi Minh era. These values form the spiritual foundation and source of strength for the military to continue its mission in building and defending the Fatherland in the new era.
General Phan Van Giang affirmed that when art, especially cinema, is rooted in history and revolution and receives proper investment, it becomes a highly effective medium to spread patriotism and inspire dedication in society, particularly among the younger generation. He emphasized that themes about the armed forces, revolutionary struggles, and the image of Uncle Ho’s soldiers remain deeply appealing and continue to inspire artists and audiences alike.
The minister also highlighted the importance of close coordination among military and civilian agencies, units, local authorities, the public, and artists. Effective communications and promotion, he said, play an essential role in helping works like “Red Rain” reach their intended audiences, resonate deeply across society, and extend their influence internationally.
General Giang tasked the GDP with continuing to guide the People's Army Cinema and other cultural and art agencies in the military to build on the film’s success by creating new works on revolutionary, resistance, and national defense themes. He also requested that “Red Rain” should be incorporated into the military’s education and dissemination programs, screened at military units, academies, and schools, and widely promoted to the public and international friends, ensuring that its message and values continue to spread.
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Outstanding individuals and collectives honored at the event |
At the conference, in acknowledgement of collectives and individuals’ contribution to the success of the film, Minister Phan Van Giang presented certificates of merit to 20 collectives and 18 individuals; the GDP awarded certificates of merit to 16 collectives and 59 individuals; and the Chairman of the Quang Tri Provincial People’s Committee honored the People's Army Cinema.
On this occasion, the Ministry of National Defense also reviewed and proposed awarding the Third-Class Labor Order to the People's Army Cinema as a collective, and to three individuals, namely Senior Colonel Nguyen Thu Dung (the People's Army Cinema’s Director), Senior Colonel Kieu Thanh Thuy (the People's Army Cinema’s Deputy Director and Executive Producer of “Red Rain”), and Colonel Dang Thai Huyen (People's Army Cinema’s Deputy Director and Director of “Red Rain”).
Translated by Tran Hoai