The Scent of Green Papaya (1993)
“The Scent of Green Papaya” (1993) is a Vietnamese film that offers a poetic and visually stunning portrayal of the life of a young servant girl named Mui, spanning from her childhood to adulthood. The film showcases the beauty of Vietnamese culture and daily life, making it an excellent choice for someone to watch before visiting Vietnam to gain a deep appreciation for the country’s atmosphere and traditions
Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)
“Good Morning, Vietnam” (1987) is a comedy-drama film starring Robin Williams as an irreverent radio DJ during the Vietnam War. The film provides a unique perspective on the conflict, blending humor and drama, and it can be insightful for someone visiting Vietnam as it offers a glimpse into the war’s impact on both military personnel and the local population, along with the enduring spirit of humor and resilience.
Apocalypse Now (1979)
“Apocalypse Now” (1979) is a war film directed by Francis Ford Coppola, loosely based on Joseph Conrad’s novel “Heart of Darkness.” The movie follows Captain Benjamin Willard as he embarks on a harrowing journey upriver into the heart of the Vietnam War to assassinate a rogue colonel. While “Apocalypse Now” is a captivating cinematic masterpiece, it’s not the best choice to watch before visiting Vietnam, as it offers a highly stylized and often surreal portrayal of the war, which may not provide an accurate or positive representation of the country. Instead, it’s advisable to explore other films that offer a more nuanced and authentic perspective on Vietnam’s culture and history.
Journey from the Fall (2006)
“Journey from the Fall” (2006) is a drama film that tells the story of a South Vietnamese family’s experiences after the fall of Saigon in 1975. It explores their journey as refugees and their struggles to adapt to life in the United States while coping with the trauma of war. This movie is a poignant and powerful portrayal of the refugee experience and the challenges faced by Vietnamese immigrants in a new country. It can be particularly insightful for someone visiting Vietnam as it sheds light on the experiences of those who fled the country during a tumultuous period and highlights the resilience of the human spirit.
The Buffalo Boy (2004)
“The Buffalo Boy” (2004) is a Vietnamese coming-of-age film set in the countryside, telling the story of a young boy who tends to water buffalo. It explores the challenges and life lessons he encounters while growing up in the rural landscapes of Vietnam. This movie offers a glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam, its simplicity, and the strong connection between the people and the land. Watching it before visiting Vietnam can provide a deeper appreciation for the country’s rural culture and the traditional way of life outside the urban centers.
Books
The Sorrow of War by Bao Ninh
“The Sorrow of War” by Bao Ninh is a novel that offers a powerful and haunting account of the Vietnam War from the perspective of a North Vietnamese soldier named Kien. It delves into the emotional and psychological toll of the war, depicting the profound trauma experienced by those who fought. This book provides a gripping and humanizing view of the Vietnam War, shedding light on the suffering and sacrifices endured by soldiers from the North. Reading it before visiting Vietnam can help individuals better understand the war’s impact on the country and its people, providing a more nuanced perspective of the conflict beyond the typical Western narrative.
The Quiet American by Graham Greene
“The Quiet American” by Graham Greene is a novel set in Vietnam during the early years of the French Indochina War. The story revolves around the complex relationships between a British journalist, an idealistic American aid worker, and a Vietnamese woman. Reading “The Quiet American” before visiting Vietnam can offer a thought-provoking perspective on the political and personal dynamics that shaped the region during this turbulent period. It provides insight into the colonial history of Vietnam and the impact of foreign involvement, making it a valuable read for those interested in the country’s complex past.
When Heaven and Earth Changed Places by Le Ly Hayslip
“When Heaven and Earth Changed Places” is a memoir by Le Ly Hayslip that recounts her experiences growing up in war-torn Vietnam and her journey to the United States as a refugee. The book provides a personal and moving account of the Vietnam War’s impact on Vietnamese civilians, particularly those who endured hardships during and after the conflict. This book is a compelling read for someone planning to visit Vietnam as it offers a firsthand account of the challenges faced by Vietnamese refugees and the resilience of individuals who sought a new life in a foreign land. It provides a deeper understanding of the personal and human dimensions of the war’s aftermath and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people.
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
“The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien is a collection of interconnected short stories that provides a powerful and often autobiographical account of the Vietnam War. It explores the experiences of American soldiers and delves into the emotional and psychological burdens they carried, both literally and figuratively. Reading “The Things They Carried” before visiting Vietnam can offer a deep understanding of the war’s impact on the soldiers who served there, the weight of their memories, and the complexities of the conflict. It provides insight into the human aspects of war and the enduring effects on those who were part of it, shedding light on the history and culture of the country you’re about to visit.
The House on Dream Street: Memoir of an American Woman in Vietnam by Dana Sachs
“The House on Dream Street: Memoir of an American Woman in Vietnam” by Dana Sachs is a memoir that chronicles the author’s experiences as an American woman who moves to Vietnam. It offers an intimate look into her journey of cultural immersion, her interactions with locals, and her deep connection to the country. Reading this memoir before visiting Vietnam can provide valuable insights into the nuances of Vietnamese culture and daily life, making it easier for someone to appreciate and understand the country’s customs, traditions, and the warmth of its people. It offers a personal perspective on the beauty and challenges of living in Vietnam as a foreigner.
