(VOVWORLD) - The Vietnamese film “Red Rain” has made the list of eligible entries for Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Academy Awards, the Hollywood Reporter said on November 21.
 A scene in the film "Red Rain" (Photo: Galaxy Studio) |
“Red Rain”, produced by the People’s Army Cinema and directed by Meritorious Artist Dang Thai Huyen, recreates the courageous fight of the soldiers from Squad 1, K3 Tam Son, at the Quang Tri Ancient Citadel during 81 historic days and nights.
A large talented cast and an emotionally rich story have made the film a box-office sensation. In less than a month, “Red Rain” earned 26.6 million USD, making it the highest-grossing film in the history of Vietnamese cinema.
Madame Ton Nu Thi Ninh, Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City Peace and Development Foundation, said, “I’m glad we were able to create such a film, whose visual effects are comparable to those of some developed countries. The most challenging thing was making a film about righteousness that still feels authentic, without embellishment or exaggeration. It is incredibly real, in its painful and quiet moments.”
 “Red Rain" marks 1 million views in one day on TV360. (Photo: TV360) |
After leaving theaters, “Red Rain” was released on Viettel’s TV360 platform and continued its viral success, reaching 1 million views in one day. It’s being screened for free during Vietnam Film Festival Week.
Bui Quang Hai, Chairman of the Vietnam-Slovakia Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City, said, “The film shows what the young generation of that time accomplished. It was incredibly heroic. The events at the Ancient Citadel were tied to the Paris negotiations, a broader context of immense significance at that moment. It helps us see the value of peace. To this day, I always remind myself to strive to be worthy of the sacrifices of my friends, of our nation, and our predecessors.”
“Red Rain” passing the preliminary round of the 98th Academy Awards’ International Feature Film category to join a list of 86 entries highlights the growing status of Vietnamese cinema and Southeast Asia’s increasing presence at the Oscars.
“‘Red Rain’ becoming Vietnam’s representative at the Oscars is a great honor for our entire film-making team. It brings a story about Vietnam’s history to an international audience and shows the world what happened here, how our predecessors fought for the peace and independence we enjoy today,” said Director Huyen.
A shortlist of 15 films will be announced on December 16, 2025. The Academy Awards ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood and will be broadcast live on ABC.