By Hina Kiyani
ISLAMABAD: A special screening of the Vietnamese historical film “Peach Blossom, Pho and Piano,” portraying Vietnam’s struggle for freedom and independence, attracted a large and diverse audience in Islamabad, reflecting growing interest in Vietnamese history, culture, and national heritage.
The screening was organized jointly by the Embassy of Vietnam in Islamabad and Alliance Française Islamabad as part of the Franco Phone Film Mela (2nd Edition).
Speaking on the occasion, Pham Anh Tuan, Ambassador of Vietnam to Pakistan, said that the film vividly portrays Vietnam’s historic struggle for independence and reflects the unwavering commitment of the Vietnamese people to freedom, sovereignty, and national dignity. The ambassador welcomed the enthusiastic response from the Islamabad audience, noting that the strong turnout demonstrated a growing appreciation of Vietnam’s rich history and cultural traditions among the people of Pakistan.
He expressed hope that such cultural initiatives would further strengthen people-to-people contacts and deepen mutual understanding between the two countries.
The Vietnamese envoy also observed that Vietnam’s historic struggle for independence served as an inspiration for many nations across Asia and Africa in their own movements against colonial rule, contributing to a broader era of national liberation and self-determination.
Set in 1947 during the intense 60-day Battle of Hanoi against French forces, Peach Blossom, Pho and Piano follows the story of a young militia fighter, Van Dân, and his fiancée, Th?c Huong, who risk their lives to reunite and marry before their forces are compelled to retreat
Against the backdrop of war and uncertainty, the film presents a moving story of love, sacrifice, and resilience.
The narrative is enriched by a cast of ordinary citizens, including an elderly painter, a young boy, and a couple running a traditional pho stall, whose lives collectively reflect the endurance and spirit of Hanoi’s people during one of the most challenging periods in the nation’s history.
The film employs powerful symbolism throughout its storyline. Peach blossoms represent hope, renewal, and the promise of a better future; pho symbolizes cultural continuity, comfort, and resilience; while the piano serves as a symbol of art, refinement, and the determination to preserve beauty and civilization amid conflict.
Widely acclaimed for its poetic and deeply human approach, the film focuses on the emotional strength of ordinary citizens rather than military strategy alone.
Through its striking contrast between war-ravaged streets and the enduring presence of music, art, and romance, the production offers a unique perspective on a defining chapter of Vietnam’s history.
The film reaches a poignant climax as its protagonists choose to remain behind and defend their ideals, transforming their final stand into a powerful artistic expression of resistance and national pride.
Director Phi Ti?n Son sought to capture the elegance, courage, and cultural identity of Hanoi’s people during a time of crisis, creating a lasting tribute to the preservation of love, culture, and dignity under fire.
Participants at the screening praised the film for its compelling portrayal of Vietnam’s history, resilience, and national spirit, describing it as a valuable contribution to cultural exchange and historical awareness between Pakistan and Vietnam.
