Vietnam - New Destination for Global Cinema

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) recently organized a tourism and film promotion program in the United States, themed "Vietnam - A New Destination for Global Cinema." Held at the DGA Theater Complex in Los Angeles, California, and led by Deputy Minister Ho An Phong, the event attracted the participation of various localities, businesses and top global film producers.

Cinematic destination and culture full of appeal

The program highlighted a seminar introducing Vietnam's tourism and cinematic potential, showcasing the country's natural beauty and cultural richness through standout films. Vietnam also presented policies to facilitate international filmmakers, with commitments from local authorities and businesses to attract Hollywood film crews to the country.

Speaking at the seminar, Deputy Minister Ho An Phong emphasized: “This Vietnam tourism and film promotion program in the U.S. aims to promote Vietnam’s destinations, cinematic potential, and attract Hollywood filmmakers to Vietnam. This will not only boost the tourism industry but also deepen the Vietnam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

“Vietnam boasts unique settings, from the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay and the ancient charm of Hoi An, to the dynamic, modern atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam is home to talented creative teams in the film industry, along with high-quality infrastructure at affordable costs, making Vietnam an attractive yet budget-friendly destination for film projects,” Phong added.

He reaffirmed Vietnam's efforts to simplify administrative procedures related to film permits and offer tax incentives to ensure a smooth filmmaking process. Vietnam offers diverse locations and rich culture, and is eager to share its story through cinema as a creative way to promote its image worldwide.

During the discussion, director Phillip Noyce, known for “The Quiet American,” shared his experience filming in Vietnam over 20 years ago. He praised local support and expressed a desire for continued assistance and training for film professionals to boost the country’s competitiveness in the region.

Hollywood and potential collaboration with Vietnam

Nicholas Simon, CEO of Indochina Productions, noted Vietnam's potential as an ideal film set with unique locations like Ha Long, Hoi An and Hanoi. He emphasized the need for incentive policies to lower production costs and simplify procedures to attract more international film crews.

Simon also mentioned that numerous Hollywood productions and international ads are filmed in Vietnam each year, boosting tourism and the country’s image. He cited the example of Ninh Binh province, where the blockbuster “Kong: Skull Island” was filmed, which became a famous tourist destination after the movie's release.

Producer Joel Rice also shared his positive impressions of filming in Vietnam, saying that Vietnam holds great potential to attract international filmmakers and suggested increased promotions, lower taxes and simplified procedures for foreign crews.

Cooperation opportunities between tourism and film

The event drew significant interest from the film community and the public in Hollywood, with over 500 attendees, including directors, producers and tourism businesses. More than 10 booths from Vietnamese localities and enterprises participated, showcasing the country's image, people, culture and cinematic potential. Additionally, the program provided opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to connect with U.S. partners.

During the program, numerous important cooperation agreements between Vietnamese localities, businesses, and U.S. partners were signed, including Quang Binh Provincial People's Committee with Indochina Productions, Vietnam Airlines with Indochina Productions, and VinPearl with Intrepid Travel.

The event also featured an exhibition of nearly 100 photographs by Tran Tuan Viet, depicting Vietnam's natural beauty, culture, history and people. These works are the culmination of 10 years of Viet traveling across the country to capture its most beautiful moments, offering the international community a profound perspective on Vietnam.

The Vietnam Tourism and Film Promotion Program in the U.S. not only opens up cooperation opportunities in the film industry but also promotes Vietnam's tourism and global image.

By Giang Tu, Vietnam Business Forum