Don’t Cry Butterfly, a film featured in the Venice Critics’ Week and directed by Duong Dieu Linh, tells the story of a 45-year-old housewife named Tam who discovers her husband’s affair through live television. In a desperate attempt to rekindle his love, Tam resorts to mystical practices. This intriguing narrative not only captivates audiences but also delves into deeper themes surrounding women’s experiences in society.
Duong Dieu Linh shared that her inspiration for Don’t Cry Butterfly stemmed from her upbringing and the women in her life, particularly her mother, aunties, and cousins. These influential figures sparked her interest in creating films centered around women, especially middle-aged women. She expressed her desire to challenge the traditional portrayal of women in Vietnamese cinema, where they are often depicted as victims of abuse and mistreatment by men.
Duong revealed that she draws inspiration from Asian extreme cinema, citing renowned directors such as Shinya Tsukamoto, Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Sion Sono, Park Chan-wook, and Kim Ki-duk. Additionally, she expressed admiration for body horror works by filmmakers like Andrzej Żuławski, David Cronenberg, and John Carpenter. By incorporating elements of these visual styles into her film, Duong aims to create a unique and impactful viewing experience for the audience.
One notable aspect of Duong’s filmmaking process is her preference for non-trained or first-time actors, evident in the casting of Don’t Cry Butterfly. She values the connection between the actors and the characters they portray and emphasizes in-depth discussions about the characters’ backgrounds and motivations. Some actors even engage in writing diaries in character to enhance their performance during filming. This approach adds authenticity and depth to the performances, elevating the overall quality of the film.
Don’t Cry Butterfly is a co-production involving Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, showcasing a collaborative effort across borders. The film’s world sales rights were acquired by Korea’s Barunson E&A, reflecting its potential for international appeal. With diverse influences and contributions from various countries, this film serves as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and cooperation in the world of cinema.
Don’t Cry Butterfly stands out as a thought-provoking and visually striking film that challenges conventional narratives surrounding women in cinema. Duong Dieu Linh’s artistic vision and commitment to authentic storytelling shine through in every aspect of the film, from casting decisions to thematic exploration. As the film continues to make waves at prestigious film festivals, it is clear that Don’t Cry Butterfly has succeeded in leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
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