Le Ngoc Duy, a prodigious filmmaker born in Da Nang in 2000, has rapidly emerged as a distinctive voice in contemporary Vietnamese cinema, focusing his lens on themes that resonate deeply with both local heritage and universal human experience. His body of work consistently explores the intricate politics of memory, the construction of history, the nuanced expressions of queer identity, and the rich cultural tapestry of Central Vietnamese heritage. Duy’s artistic inquiries often challenge dominant narratives, meticulously examining the pervasive influence of official accounts in shaping collective memory and the overarching power of larger systems in defining historical understanding. His latest triumph, "Before the Sea Forgets," stands as a poignant testament to this investigative approach, securing an official selection in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight 2025 and a coveted Queer Palm nomination, signaling a significant moment for Vietnamese independent cinema on the global stage.
A Filmmaker’s Ascendance and Vision
Duy’s journey in filmmaking has been marked by a series of notable achievements and a consistent dedication to his craft. Beyond the Cannes accolades, he has been recognized as one of the Prince Claus Fund’s Seed Awardees 2025, an honor that underscores his potential as an artist working in challenging contexts and provides crucial support for his future projects. His participation in the Locarno Filmmakers Academy 2025 further solidifies his standing as an emerging talent, placing him within an elite cohort of international filmmakers poised for significant impact. In 2024, Duy also received a production grant from the esteemed CJ Short Filmmaking Project in Vietnam, a vital initiative that supports local talent and fosters the growth of the nation’s independent film scene.
His commitment extends beyond his individual projects. As a proactive member of the A Sóng Art Collective, Duy plays an instrumental role in organizing and co-curating "Cinema of Peasants, Cinema CNN," a grassroots project dedicated to promoting and nurturing local independent cinema. This initiative highlights his dedication to community building within the arts and his belief in the power of film to give voice to underrepresented stories and perspectives from rural and marginalized communities across Vietnam. Such efforts are crucial in a landscape where mainstream cinema often dominates, creating space for diverse narratives and fostering a vibrant, independent film ecosystem.
"Before the Sea Forgets": A Journey Through Memory and Identity
The film itself unfolds as a multi-layered narrative, beginning with a visually striking scene of a group of boys dancing in a circle as water cascades upon them, an almost ritualistic opening that hints at themes of cleansing, rebirth, or perhaps the cyclical nature of memory. This transitions seamlessly to a serene beach setting, where two men engage in playful wrestling in the sand. The younger of the two exhibits moments of jealousy, yet the interaction remains steeped in an idyllic, almost innocent playfulness. This tender intimacy is subtly woven into the fabric of the story, laying the groundwork for the exploration of queer identity against a backdrop of historical introspection.
The narrative takes a thoughtful turn when the older man goes for a dive, leaving the younger one behind in contemplation. It is in this quiet moment that a poem, previously mentioned, resurfaces in the younger man’s thoughts, adding a layer of poetic introspection to the unfolding drama. This scene skillfully establishes an emotional depth that will permeate the rest of the film, suggesting that beneath the surface of playful affection lies a profound connection, potentially burdened by unspoken histories or longing.
The couple’s journey subsequently leads them to the rugged peninsula of Da Nang, their explicit mission revealed: searching for the grave of a Vietnamese soldier. This quest immediately grounds the personal narrative within a broader historical context. The troubled past of the region, deeply scarred by conflict, begins to surface as the older man recounts his father’s wartime experiences and his fervent wish for his son to locate the grave of a fallen comrade. This narrative thread expertly intertwines individual memory with collective history, illustrating how the echoes of past conflicts continue to shape contemporary lives and relationships. Their path takes them through a landscape dotted with decrepit buildings and dense forests, settings that evoke a sense of abandonment and forgotten histories. Throughout their journey, the intermittent presence of a skateboard gang adds a curious, almost anachronistic element, representing a vibrant, perhaps rebellious, youth culture that exists alongside the weighty specter of the past.
Artistic Direction and Cinematographic Brilliance
Le Ngoc Duy’s direction is characterized by a profound sensitivity to place and an unwavering focus on the nuances of memory. "Before the Sea Forgets" functions not merely as a narrative film but also as an evocative tour guide to the less-trodden, less-touristy parts of Da Nang. The camera lingers on decaying structures, stretches of thick forest, and roads where the passage of cars is rare, crafting an amalgam of mystery that stands in stark contrast to the initial, bright beach scene. This deliberate juxtaposition highlights the dual nature of Da Nang – a city of stunning natural beauty and a repository of profound historical scars.
The visual storytelling is exceptional, largely due to the masterful cinematography of Wan Ping Looi. Looi’s camera captures every detail with a striking blend of realism and meaningfulness. His long shots, in particular, stand out, allowing the audience to absorb the vastness and atmospheric quality of the landscapes, emphasizing the characters’ smallness within a grander, historically charged environment. This visual style not only enhances the film’s aesthetic appeal but also deepens its thematic resonance, inviting viewers to contemplate the profound connection between land, memory, and identity.
Despite subtle issues that appear to surface in the relationship between the two men, an overarching idyllic sense permeates the movie. This is skillfully induced by moments of tender intimacy, such as their occasional hand-holding, and by the evocative musical score. The music, initially subtle, becomes more intense as the story progresses, guiding the audience through the emotional shifts and increasing narrative tension. As the narrative transitions deeper into the forest, a palpable ominousness takes hold, signaling a departure from the earlier tranquility. The sudden, surreal appearance of an unexpected figure—someone who, by all accounts, "should not be there"—serves as a powerful metaphorical bridge connecting the past with the present. This enigmatic presence adds a layer of magical realism to the short, suggesting that memory and history are not always linear or easily contained.
The portrayal of the skateboard gang injects a welcome touch of hilarity and authenticity into the film. The cast, appearing as non-actors drawn from the local community, lends an undeniable ingenuity to the short. Their unpolished performances and vibrant energy provide a contemporary counterpoint to the historical gravitas, offering moments of levity and adding another layer of entertainment and realism to the unfolding drama.
Duy’s directorial vision also extends to the film’s editing. The pace is relatively fast, characterized by many cuts that are, at times, abrupt. However, this editing style is not haphazard; rather, it is a deliberate artistic choice that perfectly complements the fragmented and often elusive nature of memory, fitting the overall style of the story with precision and purpose. The performances by Tran The Manh as the Young Man and Nguyen Le Son as the Older Lover are both convincing and heartfelt. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, effectively conveying the depth and complexity of their romance, which forms the emotional core of the film.
International Acclaim and Broader Implications
The selection of "Before the Sea Forgets" for Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight 2025 is a monumental achievement. Directors’ Fortnight, or Quinzaine des Cinéastes, is a prestigious parallel section of the Cannes Film Festival known for showcasing bold, innovative, and independent works by emerging and established filmmakers worldwide. Its reputation as a launching pad for new talent makes Duy’s inclusion particularly significant, placing his work in conversation with some of the most exciting cinematic voices globally.
The Queer Palm nomination further amplifies the film’s importance. The Queer Palm is an independent award recognizing films dealing with LGBTQIA+ themes or issues, screened in any section of the Cannes Film Festival. This nomination highlights "Before the Sea Forgets" as a vital contribution to queer cinema, particularly from Vietnam, where LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media is still evolving. Duy’s nuanced portrayal of a queer relationship within a historical context offers a powerful statement on identity and visibility, challenging societal norms and fostering greater understanding.
Beyond Cannes, Duy’s recognition as a Prince Claus Fund Seed Awardee is a testament to his artistic courage and relevance. The Prince Claus Fund, based in the Netherlands, supports artists and cultural practitioners in regions where freedom of expression is restricted or where cultural infrastructure is limited. This award provides financial and professional development support, enabling Duy to continue his groundbreaking work and expand his artistic horizons. Similarly, his participation in the Locarno Filmmakers Academy is a significant professional milestone. The Locarno Film Festival, renowned for its commitment to discovery and independent cinema, offers an intensive program for young filmmakers, providing unparalleled networking and mentorship opportunities. These international platforms are not just awards; they are crucial opportunities for Duy to connect with global audiences, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, solidifying his position as a rising star.
The production grant from the CJ Short Filmmaking Project in Vietnam in 2024 underscores the local industry’s recognition of Duy’s talent. Such grants are indispensable for independent filmmakers, providing the necessary resources to bring their visions to life in a challenging production environment. This local support, combined with international accolades, paints a picture of a filmmaker whose work is deeply rooted in his heritage while simultaneously transcending national borders.
Impact on Vietnamese Cinema and Cultural Dialogue
Le Ngoc Duy’s work, particularly "Before the Sea Forgets," represents a significant moment for Vietnamese cinema. Historically, Vietnamese films have often been viewed through the lens of war narratives or rural poverty. While these themes remain relevant, Duy’s exploration of queer identity, complex historical memory, and the nuanced social fabric of Central Vietnam broadens the scope of what Vietnamese cinema can achieve. His willingness to delve into themes that are both personal and politically charged contributes to a more diverse and representative national film landscape.
His involvement with the A Sóng Art Collective and "Cinema of Peasants, Cinema CNN" also highlights a growing movement towards grassroots, independent film initiatives in Vietnam. These collectives are vital for fostering new talent, providing alternative distribution channels, and ensuring that voices from all corners of the country are heard. By promoting local independent cinema, Duy and his peers are building a sustainable ecosystem for artistic expression, challenging the dominance of commercial films, and encouraging critical engagement with complex social issues.
The international acclaim for "Before the Sea Forgets" will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of Vietnamese filmmakers, particularly those who seek to explore themes of identity, memory, and LGBTQ+ experiences. It demonstrates that authentic, deeply personal stories, even when rooted in specific cultural contexts, possess universal appeal and can resonate powerfully with global audiences. This recognition also encourages greater dialogue about queer issues within Vietnam, contributing to a more open and inclusive society.
While some might argue that the film could benefit from more time to explore its narrative threads further, its current form as a short film achieves a remarkable depth and impact within its runtime. "Before the Sea Forgets" ultimately emerges as a profoundly beautiful and powerful cinematic work. It masterfully illustrates how memory, both personal and collective, lingers in landscapes and human hearts, profoundly shaping individuals and communities. Le Ngoc Duy’s film is not just a story; it is an experience, a meditation on the enduring power of the past and its indelible mark on the present, solidifying his place as a compelling new voice in global cinema.
