Red Rain makes its debut in celebration of Vietnam’s 80th National Day
The poignant cinematic tribute reflects a defining moment in the nation’s struggle for reunification.
THE HANOI TIMES — As the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19) and Vietnam National Day (September 2) approach, Red Rain, a new feature film that honors one of the most heroic chapters in Vietnamese history, will be introduced to audiences.
The poster of the new feature film Red Rain.
Crafted by esteemed writer Chu Lai, Red Rain draws inspiration from the legendary 81-day battle to defend the Quang Tri Citadel in the summer of 1972 during the war against American troops.
It is a poignant tribute to the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit of the Vietnamese people, soldiers, and cadres who stood their ground in the face of unimaginable hardship.
In a newly released teaser trailer, the atmosphere is both haunting and heroic. A flare lights up the darkened sky, followed by the harrowing sounds of bombs and bullets.
Amidst the fire and smoke, a voice echoes: “We only have the Thach Han River to move our troops.” From that point, silent formations cross the river under cover of night. They move forward, undaunted by the scorched earth, the crimson current, or the thunder overhead.
Their story is told through the eyes of Squad 1, young men in their twenties, burning with patriotism and a belief in a better tomorrow.
Dang Thai Huyen, the movie's director shares that to recreate the wartime setting with authenticity and reverence, the production team constructed a large-scale set in Quang Tri Town, alongside the historic Thach Han River.
Letters written from the embattled frontlines of Quang Tri, 1972.
"A faithful replica of the Quang Tri Citadel was painstakingly rebuilt, complete with trenches, tunnels, field hospitals, and defensive stations. Veterans and historical witnesses lent their insight to ensure accuracy and honor the memory of those who lived through those turbulent days," she stated.
The film Red Rain captures not only the chaos of bombs and bullets, but also the haunting silence that follows. In these quiet moments, soldiers confront the weight of loss, the ache of missing their families, and the sorrow of a youth stolen too soon.
It is in this silence, not just in battle, that the true fierceness of war is revealed, leaving viewers deeply moved.
According to local cinematic critics, Red Rain is an offering of remembrance. Each frame is a symbolic incense stick, lit in tribute by today’s soldiers for the fallen of yesterday.
Their blood and sacrifice laid the foundation for peace, and the film seeks to preserve that spirit not only in history books, but in the hearts of future generations.
The film is also a bridge across time, allowing young people to respect, live with greater purpose and responsibility, and contribute to a brighter, unified Vietnam.
This heart-touching movie is scheduled to premiere in major cities across the country on September 2, a meaningful date for a film that reminds us all that freedom is not given, it is earned.
