Celebrating Vietnamese history through animation films
From the echoes of ancient legends to the heroic moments that shaped a nation, Vietnamese history comes alive on the big screen through the vibrant language of animation.
THE HANOI TIMES — As part of the grand exhibition “80-year Journey of Independence - Freedom - Happiness”, free public screenings of 46 animated films are offered at the Vietnam Exposition Center in Dong Anh Commune, Hanoi.
The poster of the animation film “Chuyen ke ngay Tet Doc Lap” (The Story of Independence Day).
This cinematic showcase continues the momentum of the studio’s successful debut during Vietnam’s National Day earlier this month.
With genres spanning traditional 2D and 3D animation to intricate computer-generated paper-cutting techniques, the screening offers entertainment and educational experiences.
Designed to introduce Vietnamese history and culture to children and international audiences alike, the film series weaves together vivid storytelling, artistic innovation and a deep reverence for national identity.
Each screening invites viewers to rediscover the roots of Vietnamese resilience, patriotism, and unity through the eyes of compelling characters and meaningful narratives.
At the heart of the program are historical films that resonate across generations. Works such as “Chiec xe tho Dien Bien” (The Dien Bien Cargo Bike); “Cau be giu la co Dang” (The Boy Who Holds the Party Flag) and “Chuyen tau Thong Nhat” (The Unified Train), among others, help dramatize pivotal moments in Vietnam’s past with cinematic flair and emotional depth.
Particularly moving is “Chuyen ke ngay Tet Doc Lap” (The Story of Independence Day), which follows a grandfather and his grandson on a journey through Hanoi’s historic landmarks. Their intergenerational dialogue brings to life the spirit of the August Revolution of 1945, offering young viewers a personal window into the sacred memory of Vietnam’s National Day on September 2, 1945.
A scene from the animated film The Story of Independence Day.
Women’s voices in history also shine on screen, notably in the animated film “Nu tuong Me Linh” (The Female General of Me Linh), telling the story of the Trung Sisters' revolt against Chinese invaders during 40–43 AD. Trung Trac alongside her sister Trung Nhi led the people in driving out the invaders and reclaiming the nation’s independence.
The program also highlights the dynamic evolution of Vietnamese animation through beloved contemporary series such as “Hiep si Nghe vang” (The Night Calf), “Chien binh Meo mui do” (The Red Nose Cat Warrior), “Chu Oc sen bay” (the Flying Snail), “Tham tu dau bac” (The Silver-Haired Detective), and “Ngoi sao xanh ky la” (Strange Blue Star). These stories, rich in imagination and cultural symbolism, reflect the creativity and diversity of Vietnam’s modern animation landscape.
By bridging tradition and innovation, this free screening initiative offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s cinematic artistry, inviting young and international audiences to learn, reflect and connect with Vietnamese history through the lens of animated storytelling.
