Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - A sweeping cross-cultural romance set against Vietnam’s landscapes and cityscapes, the Vietnam–India co-production Love in Vietnam is positioning itself as both a cinematic crowd-pleaser and a soft-power showcase, aiming to elevate the country’s global image while sparking interest in its tourism, culture and people.
Directed and written by Rahhat Shah Kazmi, the film is co-produced by RFK Studio, Innovations India and 1-All Stars Vietnam, with support from the Consulate General of India in HCM City and the Consulate General of Vietnam in Mumbai. The collaboration is intended to promote cultural and artistic exchange between the two countries.
The film premiered at the 2025 Da Nang Asian Film Festival and went on to receive major honours, including Best Film of Asia and Best Director of Asia at the Seoul Global Movie Awards.
Its narrative draws inspiration from Madonna in a Fur Coat by Turkish writer Sabahattin Ali, one of the most celebrated classics of Turkish literature. First published in 1943, the novel has been translated into 17 languages and sold tens of millions of copies worldwide.
Love in Vietnam follows Manav, the privileged son of an Indian billionaire family who values freedom and music. At odds with his ambitions, he is sent by his uncle to Vietnam to study agriculture.
In a foreign land shaped by a different language, customs and pace of life, Manav unexpectedly encounters a painting by Linh, a beautiful, strong and passionate Vietnamese artist. Struck by love at first sight, he finds himself irresistibly drawn to her.
As the story unfolds, early misunderstandings and cultural clashes give way to a deeper artistic and emotional bond, revealing how connection can transcend borders.
More than a romance, Love in Vietnam is framed as a symbol of friendship and cultural connection between two countries rich in heritage and a shared passion for cinema.
Director Kazmi noted that Vietnam provides an ideal setting for portraying a love story that is both authentic and dignified, where grand visuals serve not as spectacle but as a meaningful backdrop.
Carefully crafted cinematography presents Vietnam as both captivating and diverse, from the turquoise beaches of Da Nang and the tranquil, ancient charm of Hoi An to the dynamic, modern rhythm of HCM City.
The Central Highlands city of Da Lat and Phu Quoc Island in the southern province of An Giang play a particularly important role in the film, balancing romance and modernity.
In Da Nang, locations such as Samten Hills, with its giant prayer wheel, create a sacred and contemplative space where the characters’ emotions deepen.
Meanwhile, Phu Quoc leaves a lasting impression through striking romantic moments, including fireworks illuminating the night sky and the leading roles’ kiss on the iconic Kiss Bridge.
The film features a high-profile cast and production team, including Shantanu Maheshwari and Kha Ngan in the two leading roles.
Maheshwari is a renowned actor and dancer, best known for Dil Dosti Dance. He won Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 8 and is a member of Desi Hoppers, champions of the World of Dance Championship in Los Angeles. He made his film debut in Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) and won the IIFA Award for Best Male Debut.
Kha Ngan is a rising Vietnamese actress admired for her natural beauty and emotionally resonant performances. Her notable works include Golden Kite Award-winning 11 Months 5 Days, 100 Days with You and Suddenly Happy Family. She is also active in music and television hosting.
Other artists include Avneet Kaur, Farida Jalal, Thanh Hien and Dinh Y Nhung. Love in Vietnam is the first cinematic co-production between Vietnam and India since the two countries established diplomatic relations 75 years ago.
It will be screened in Vietnamese cinemas on January 9, following releases in India and the Republic of Korea./.
