At the historic BGF Roundtable, “Humanity and Compassion in Vietnamese Film and Contributions to the AI World Society,” held at the Harvard University Faculty Club, the AIWS Film Park emerged as a central highlight, symbolizing a bold new vision for cinema in the AI age. Co-organized by the Boston Global Forum, Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA), Harvard University (Vietnamese Language Program), and the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations, the event also celebrated 30 years of U.S.-Vietnam normalization, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. Powerful remarks from Governor Michael Dukakis, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, and Chairwoman of VFDA Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, Mr Dinh Trong Tuan, VFDA underscored the importance of the AIWS Film Park as a hub for creativity, technology, and global collaboration. Their statements marked a historic moment in advancing Vietnam-U.S. film partnerships and shaping the future of AI-driven storytelling.
Distinguished Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, Professor Thomas Patterson,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a true honor for me to represent the Diplomatic Missions of Viet Nam in the United States at this remarkable event. The Permanent Mission of Viet Nam in New York is delighted to collaborate with the Boston Global Forum and Harvard University in convening this meaningful roundtable, which brings together thought leaders and creative minds to explore the intersection of film, humanity, technology and international cooperation.
As Viet Nam and the United States are celebrating 30 years of normalized diplomatic relations in 2025, we recognize the unique role of cinema in fostering mutual understanding and cultural exchange between our two nations. Today’s gathering is a testament to our growing comprehensive strategic partneship, deepening cultural and people-to-people ties, as well as the vast potential for greater collaboration in the film industry and beyond.
Excellencies, distinguished participants,
Since its inception dating back to the early 20th century, Vietnamese cinema has been a mirror to the country’s history, and a canvas for the soul of its people. Vietnamese film has captured the resilience of our nation and the depth of our compassion and shared humanity. From the poetic realism of wartime narratives to the contemporary explorations of identity, love, and change, our filmmakers have crafted stories that resonate not only with Vietnamese audiences but also with the world.
As the country embarked on a path of comprehensive renovation and international integration over the past 4 decades, the Vietnamese film industry has evolved and transformed itself significantly. Despite the challenges of an economy in transition, Vietnamese filmmakers have managed to preserve the artistic integrity of “made in Viet Nam” films while also achieving increasing commercial success.
Today, the local film market is thriving, driven by a young and increasingly discerning audience. Several domestic films have grossed over 20 million US dollars, outperforming even foreign blockbusters released during the same period. Besides success at home, Vietnamese films are also gaining international recognition, making frequent appearances at prestigious film festivals world wide.
In that evolution, especially since the turn of this century, the impacts of the unique historical connection and deepening relations between Viet Nam and the United States are clearly evident:
– Many Vietnamese filmmakers of the post-war generation, born in the 1970s and 1980s, became exposed to and found inspiration in the acclaimed cinematic masterpieces from the United States.
– A generation of Vietnamese-American directors have returned to Viet Nam, bringing with them the knowledge and know-how from Hollywood, including notable names such as Charlie Nguyen, Johnny Tri Nguyen, and Victor Vu…
Others, like Tony Bui, have built successful careers in the U.S. while remaining dedicated to bridging the two countries through art and film.
– Our strengthened bilateral cooperation and exchange of scholarships have nurtured a new wave of young US-educated filmmakers. Talents such as Phan Gia Nhat Linh, Trinh Dinh Le Minh, and Vu Quynh Ha, have returned and become key figures in Viet Nam’s modern film industry.
Those are just a few examples of the deep-rooted connections and immense potential for cooperation between Viet Nam and the United States in the film industry. More than a professional partnership, this collaboration also serves as a bridge that fosters empathy, understanding, and shared creative aspirations.
Excellencies, distinguished participants,
As artificial intelligence is transforming virtually all aspects of life, the film industries in both the U.S. and Viet Nam are at a critical crossroad. The “AI age” presents both unprecedented opportunities and profound challenges. It is essential that we ensure technology amplifies humanistic values rather than diminish them. AI should support artists and enhance their ability to tell stories that move, inspire, and unite us. It must not take away the emotional depth, cultural authenticity, and human connections that make cinema so powerful.
These are issues that require thoughtful exploration. I, therefore, look forward to an insightful discussion in the next hours, hoping it will inspire new ideas, meaningful collaborations, and a future where film and technology coexist in harmony.
Finally, I take this opportunity to I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our esteemed speakers, panelists and participants for bringing their expertise, vision, and passion to this conversation. My special thanks go to the visiting delegation of Vietnamese film professionals, headed by Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, a prominent critic and leader in Viet Nam’s film industry.
I am honored to join you for this roundtable on Humanity and Compassion in Vietnamese Film and Contributions to the AI World Society. Thank you for your time and participation.
Vietnam is transforming rapidly, including in cinema. In the past five years, our films have gained recognition both locally and internationally, with box office revenues reaching tens of millions of dollars. The revised Cinema Law has also made it easier for foreign film crews to work in Vietnam.
However, our cinema’s success comes from its deep connection to Vietnamese identity. In my book, Modernity and Nationality in Vietnamese Cinema (published in English by NETPAC in 2007), I explored how Vietnamese films reflect patriotism, family values, and compassion—even toward former enemies.
For example, The Wild Field (Cánh đồng hoang) by Nguyễn Hồng Sến tells the story of a guerrilla couple pursued by a helicopter pilot. When the pilot kills the husband, the wife avenges him, but upon seeing a photo of the pilot’s family, she pauses in sorrow—highlighting the deep humanity in our cinema.
Similarly, When the October Comes (Bao giờ cho đến tháng Mười) by Đặng Nhật Minh portrays a woman who hides her husband’s death to protect her father-in-law’s well-being, bearing her grief alone. This sacrifice and compassion define our storytelling.
Vietnamese cinema also embodies the “Mother Principle,” with strong female characters who endure hardships and support their loved ones. This tradition continues in both mainstream and independent films, including recent hits like The House of the Lady (Nhà bà Nữ), Mai, and Face Off 7: One Wish (Lật mặt 7: Một điều ước). Just days ago, we screened Don’t Cry, Butterfly in Washington, D.C., for Vietnam Film Day.
As AI and globalization reshape the world, Vietnamese cinema remains committed to sharing its unique voice—rooted in humanity and compassion—with the AI World Society.
As Founder and Chairwoman of the Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA), I am proud of our progress from 2019 to 2024, including the Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF) and the PAI Film Attraction Index. As we enter our second term in 2025, we aim to strengthen Vietnam’s role as a global filmmaking hub.
We are eager to collaborate with American filmmakers. Our visits to LA, Washington, D.C., New York, and today, Boston, are part of our efforts to build strong partnerships.
I sincerely thank the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations, Boston Global Forum, and Harvard University for hosting this event. For VFDA, this is more than a discussion—it’s a celebration of 30 years of Vietnam-U.S. relations.
Co-Founder and Co-Chair, Boston Global Forum BGF Roundtable: “Humanity and Compassion in Vietnamese Film and Contributions to the AI World Society” Harvard University Faculty Club, March 11, 2025
Good afternoon, everyone. It is my great pleasure to welcome you to this Boston Global Forum Roundtable at Harvard University. A special warm welcome to His Excellency Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations; Dr. Ngo Phuong Lan, Chairwoman of the Vietnam Film Development Association; and our distinguished professors, scholars, filmmakers, and innovators here today. Your presence makes this gathering truly remarkable.
We are here to celebrate a milestone—30 years of normalized relations between the United States and Vietnam. Today, Vietnam and the USA stand as comprehensive strategic partners, a testament to our shared journey and commitment to progress. This anniversary is not just a moment of reflection but a springboard for deeper collaboration. For decades, Vietnamese cinema has woven stories of humanity and compassion that resonate far beyond its borders. Now, we explore how these values can shape the AI World Society, blending tradition with innovation to build a better future.
The Boston Global Forum has proudly supported Vietnam since 2014, and that commitment continues stronger than ever. We are thrilled to back the Vietnam government and the visionary AIWS Film Park—a pioneering hub connecting Vietnam to Boston, New York, Hollywood, and beyond. This initiative embodies our belief in AI as a force for creativity and global collaboration.
Through the Friends of Vietnam-U.S. Film Collaboration, we’re deepening ties between our film industries. We’ll promote the Da Nang Asian Film Festival here in Boston and champion the AIWS Film Park as a beacon of shared innovation. These efforts honor our past 30 years while forging a vibrant path ahead.
Thank you all for joining us in this celebration and commitment. Let’s make today a step toward a world enriched by film, technology, and mutual understanding.
Member of the Standing Committee of the Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA)
At the BGF Roundtable “Humanity and Love in Vietnamese Cinema and Contributions to AI World Society”
Harvard University Faculty Club, Cambridge, MA
March 11, 2025
Dear Ambassador Đặng Hoàng Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations,
Dear Governor Michael Dukakis, Former Governor of Massachusetts, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Boston Global Forum (BGF),
Dr. Ngô Phương Lan, President of the Vietnam Film Development Association (VFDA),
Distinguished professors, scholars, filmmakers, creators, and esteemed partners,
Today, I am deeply honored to be present at this seminar, organized by the Boston Global Forum (BGF) and VFDA at Harvard University. This event marks the 30th anniversary of the normalization of Vietnam–U.S. relations, while also opening a new chapter in cinematic cooperation between our two nations.
For me, cinema is not just a creative industry; it is a mission—a powerful medium that conveys humanistic values and connects the international community. Over the past decades, Vietnamese cinema has brought forth profound stories about people, history, and culture, not only for domestic audiences but also reaching global viewers.
Today, we gather here to discuss the role of cinema in the AI Era—a time where technology and creativity converge, unlocking unprecedented possibilities.
VISION: AIWS FILM PARK IN VIETNAM
As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, we must take a bold step forward. Therefore, I am pleased to introduce the AIWS Film Park initiative in Vietnam—a pioneering cinematic hub integrating AI and storytelling, where art and technology intersect.
Under the guidance of AI World Society (AIWS), AIWS Film Park will not only be a film production facility but also a dynamic creative ecosystem, connecting Vietnam with major global film hubs, including Boston, New York, Hollywood, Washington DC, Paris, Rome, and London. This initiative aims not only to elevate Vietnamese cinema but also to pioneer AI-powered filmmaking on a global scale.
We are currently conducting research and evaluation to select an optimal location in Vietnam, ensuring a perfect synergy between infrastructure, natural landscapes, and long-term development potential.
KEY OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
Fostering Global Collaboration – Establishing a network that connects filmmakers, scholars, and investors from the United States, Vietnam, and other countries.
Innovating the Filmmaking Process – Integrating AI and digital technology into film production to enhance creativity and optimize workflows.
Developing the Vietnamese Film Industry – Expanding the global reach of Vietnamese cinema by leveraging international distribution networks to attract a wider audience.
Promoting Education and Accessibility – Providing opportunities for young filmmakers to access AI technology, learn from international experts, and develop new cinematic models in the digital era.
VIETNAM–U.S. COOPERATION IN CINEMA
This project is part of the Vietnam–U.S. Film Cooperation Program (Friends of Vietnam–U.S. Film Collaboration), initiated by VFDA and BGF. It is a significant initiative aimed at:
Strengthening connections between filmmakers, producers, and technology companies from both countries.
Promoting AI applications in the film industry based on AI World Society (AIWS) standards.
Expanding the market for Vietnamese films in the U.S. and vice versa.
Facilitating bilateral collaboration projects, seminars, and training programs on AI-powered filmmaking.
We are honored to collaborate with outstanding individuals and organizations in this field, including:
Former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of BGF
Professor Thomas Patterson, Harvard University
Tony Bui, Vietnamese-American Director, Columbia University
Investors, experts, and enterprises from both the U.S. and Vietnam.
STRATEGIC IMPACT
Once operational, AIWS Film Park is expected to bring about positive transformations in multiple dimensions:
Elevating Vietnamese cinema onto the global stage.
Attracting investment from major corporations in the technology and film industries.
Creating opportunities for the next generation of Vietnamese filmmakers.
Shaping AI-powered cinema towards a sustainable and humanistic future.
CONCLUSION
Distinguished guests,
AIWS Film Park is more than just a film project—it represents a major leap forward in the global integration of Vietnamese cinema. We strongly believe that, with the collective efforts of filmmakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and leading organizations, AIWS Film Park will become a world-class creative hub, honoring traditional values while pioneering innovation in the AI Era.
Thank you for your time and attention. We look forward to your support and collaboration in turning this vision into reality!
