In celebration of the 51st anniversary of the Liberation of Southern Vietnam and the Reunification of the country (April 30th), international students at Ho Chi Minh City Open University embarked on an emotional journey back to 1946 Hanoi through the film “Đào, Phở, Piano”. More than just a movie screening, this was a cultural bridge helping friends from afar understand and fall in love with the Vietnamese soul.
Spreading Vietnamese Identity in an Integrated Academic Environment
At Ho Chi Minh City Open University, student development is not confined to the classroom. The University prioritizes organizing extracurricular activities that explore rich culture and art. From vibrant international holidays to events deeply rooted in Vietnamese identity, every activity is designed to provide both Vietnamese and international students with opportunities for comprehensive development, expanding their worldviews and enriching their souls.
“Đào, Phở, Piano“ – A Romantic Ballad Amidst War Ruins
To understand why international friends were so moved, one must look at the context the film recreates. “Đào, Phở, Piano” does not focus on fierce battles but looks at the 63 days and nights of defending the capital, Hanoi, at the end of 1946.
Amidst barricades made of tables and chairs and the roar of gunfire, viewers still see a Hanoi full of pride and elegance. It is the journey of a young militia member searching for a Nhật Tân peach blossom branch for Tết (Lunar New Year), the sound of a piano echoing in an old villa, and the rich aroma of a bowl of Phở prepared with meticulous care right at the border of life and death. The film is a beautiful intersection between the harshness of history and the romantic, noble soul of the Vietnamese – those ready to sacrifice to protect beauty and faith in tomorrow.
First Impressions: From Curiosity to Emotion
For many international students, the concept of Vietnamese history often exists only in textbooks. Lim Meymey – a student from Cambodia, shared that she initially thought the film was simply about cuisine and daily life (because of the word “Phở” in the title). However, the reality provided a completely different experience:
“The reality provided me with a completely different experience. I felt deeply moved and reflective, especially during the ending. The film gave me a deeper understanding of Vietnamese history and the resilience of its people. It felt like a quiet tribute to the past, full of subtle emotions and meaningful moments.”
Similarly, Nalisack Sadet – a student from Laos, also found the film profoundly meaningful for sensing the cultural depth of the people of old Hanoi.
Symbols that Touch the Heart
From the perspective of international students, the film’s allure lies in the delicate intertwining of cultural and human values. First, that beauty exists through the identity of the Vietnamese people. Lim Meymey was particularly impressed by how the characters faced adversity – a blend of strong will and an intense love for both their ideals and each other. Meanwhile, Taisiya Luhahova – a student from Turkmenistan, expressed heartache and regret witnessing the passing of the characters at the end, a conclusion that left a lasting resonance regarding their presence in the flow of history.
Alongside the people, music serves as the soul that guides emotions, leaving deep imprints on the audience. The image of the piano sounding elegantly amidst the ruins of bombardment became a symbol of an unconquerable spirit. For Nalisack Sadet, that melody was not just art but an invisible thread connecting souls during wartime. Taisiya Luhahova also shared that the moment the woman played the song she had longed to perform on her wedding day, along with the final scene, were the most memorable and moving moments she had ever experienced.
Ultimately, the film conveyed timeless human messages that reached the minds of international youth. Rising above fear and the brutality of war, they realized that values such as art, love, and national pride are always stronger than death. It is a lesson in hope and the appreciation of peace, affirming that while some things may fade with time, memories and noble cultural values will always be preserved and remain forever.
Cultural Integration Through Every Frame
The screening truly helped international students feel closer to Vietnam than ever before. After watching, Lim Meymey excitedly said she wanted to go for a bowl of Phở immediately to feel the “real life” extension of the movie, then take a walk around the city to enjoy the current peaceful atmosphere.
The message of cherishing peace and preserving culture is one that international students share in unison. Nalisack Sadet expressed:
“Peace is priceless and culture must be preserved.”
“Some things fade with time, but memories remain.” As the screening concluded, the echoes of a resilient, romantic, and identity-rich Vietnam will remain forever in the hearts of international students at Ho Chi Minh City Open University.
Written by: Thao Anh