From the success of Red Rain to the appeal of revolutionary films

A scene from the movie “Red Rain”. (Photo: Provided by the film crew)

Two films with the same theme, released just a few months apart and both successful, are good news for the country’s cinema. The film “Red Rain” was inspired by the novel of the same name by writer Chu Lai, recreating the 81 fierce days and nights in Quang Tri Citadel in 1972. Meanwhile, the film “Tunnels: The Sun in the Dark” depicts the tenacious underground battle in the steel-covered Cu Chi Tunnels in 1967.

Two different contexts but both focus on reflecting the reality of war, human fate and the aspirations to live, fight and sacrifice for the Fatherland. What is quite special is that it is the young audience who has created the spread of these films. They are moved by the emotional and intimate storytelling that makes history touch their hearts. At that time, the cinematic experience is also a journey to continue the national memory.

Historical films have long been associated with the stereotype of being difficult to watch and difficult to sell tickets. However, the record revenues of some recent films show that if the art is convincing enough and the cinematographic techniques are improved, the work can completely conquer the majority. It is no coincidence that the screenings of the two films were full of audiences. The brutal reality of war is recreated, the haunting details, the appeal of the setting, the music ... have blended together to create an experience that is both intense and humane.

Notably, the above works were all produced in the context of the country celebrating major historical milestones: 50 years of Southern Liberation and National Reunification Day; 80 years of August Revolution and National Day September 2. “Red Rain” was produced under the direction of the Central Military Commission - Ministry of National Defense , with a script by writer Chu Lai and directed by Meritorious Artist Dang Thai Huyen. “Tunnel” was directed by director Bui Thac Chuyen and private investors with great dedication. The resonance between the State and the private sector, between heroic memories and artistic creativity, has created new vitality for revolutionary films.

In addition to their box office success, the meaningful value that the two films bring is their contribution to changing the public's perspective on historical films. With their remarkable efforts, the filmmakers have shown that, with passion and creativity, historical films can completely become the "mainstream" in current life, not just memories and nostalgia. Revenue records, positive feedback from audiences as well as prestigious film awards are worthy rewards for artists who dare to embark on difficult paths.

Although both films explore the theme of revolutionary war, each film has its own unique features. In terms of art, “Red Rain” impresses with its grand scale: grand battle scenes, the fierceness of bombs and bullets, the fiery atmosphere of Quang Tri Citadel; focusing on recreating historical stature, while also depicting the tragic fate of people. From another perspective, director Bui Thac Chuyen’s work focuses on the harshness of daily life and fighting in the land of steel, building the characters’ psychology with small but impressive details: A meal in the dark, a haunting song, pain and silent, intense desire…

In terms of audience response, “Red Rain” has the advantage of being more accessible: the plot is clear, the emotions are direct, and easy to spread, so it quickly reached the revenue milestone of more than 100 billion VND in just three days. “Tunnel: Sun in the Dark” follows an “uncompromising” artistic style, requiring viewers to accompany and reflect. However, this is what makes the film highly appreciated for its artistic value, many viewers watch it over and over again, and promises long-term, sustainable success.

Choosing different approaches and exploitation, the films all aim for the same goal: Bringing national history closer to today's audience, while opening up opportunities for cinema to transform. How to make historical films both attractive and maintain depth and artistic value is the question raised after the film phenomena that have attracted the attention of the audience.

According to director, People's Artist Dang Nhat Minh, a film in particular and literary and artistic works in general must touch the hearts of the audience. Therefore, in addition to recreating events, it is necessary to delve into the human condition. There, our soldiers and compatriots all appear with an ordinary yet extraordinary appearance. That is the direction that needs to be exploited more deeply so that history is told through fate and aspiration. Filmmakers also believe that the audience's needs are increasing, so in addition to good stories, they need a good experience in terms of images and sounds. Cinema must have investment in technology and a professional post-production team.

Besides, it is undeniable that the influence of a film also depends on the way it is communicated. Attractive trailers, music videos, artist exchanges, viral clips on social networks... can all make historical stories more familiar and accessible.

Notably, the film’s release on important national anniversaries also helps audiences better understand the meaning of the work in the inspiration of historical gratitude. Cinema also needs to accompany education through projects to bring films to schools, organize film screenings, and interact with directors and actors.

Cinema, together with history, will create a sustainable bridge between memory and the present, towards the future. It is from the creative aspirations, the serious artistic spirit and the deep sense of responsibility of filmmakers that historical films have the opportunity to affirm their position, becoming a long-term pillar of cinema, both an artistic voice and the heartbeat of the nation's soul.

MAI LU

Source: https://nhandan.vn/tu-thanh-cong-cua-mua-do-den-suc-hap-dan-tu-dong-phim-cach-mang-post904510.html