The Vietnam Tourism and Film Promotion Program in the United States, themed “Vietnam – A New Destination for World Cinema,” was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Los Angeles, California on September 25 (local time).

In addition to delegates from Vietnam, the program attracted the participation of over 500 guests, including producers, film studio executives, directors, set designers, Hollywood actors, and partners of Vietnamese tourism and film businesses in the United States.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho An Phong said that this promotion program aims to introduce and promote tourist destinations and potential filming locations in Vietnam, attracting Hollywood studios to film big-budget movies that can create international media buzz, thereby promoting and attracting tourists to Vietnam.

Highlighting the strengths of choosing Vietnam as a filming location, Deputy Minister Ho An Phong emphasized: “Vietnam offers a diverse range of settings that can breathe life into your stories. But it’s not just about the scenery. Our country has a talented and growing creative workforce in the film industry.”

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Delegates exchange information and learn about Vietnam as a destination on the sidelines of a tourism and film promotion event in the United States. Photo: Thuy Ha

He believes that Vietnam currently has experts ready to collaborate on international film projects, providing expertise in all areas, from production design to post-production.

According to him, affordability and supporting infrastructure are advantages that make Vietnam a cost-effective yet high-quality location for film projects.

Deputy Minister Ho An Phong shared: “We are striving to simplify film permits, provide tax incentives, and offer necessary support to ensure a seamless and successful experience for filmmakers here.”

Having visited Vietnam more than 20 years ago to film "The Quiet American," director Phillip Noyce said he encountered no obstacles and received great support from local authorities, professional agencies, and the enthusiastic participation of the people.

“The film crew was given every possible support, from the quick issuance of permits to logistical assistance such as providing security personnel and ensuring that filming went smoothly. These are memories I will never forget,” he said.

While acknowledging Vietnam's rapidly developing economy and favorable conditions for film and tourism growth, Phillip Noyce suggested the need for policies to support film crews. He also emphasized the importance of training professional film professionals, creating a more open film production environment, and enhancing Vietnam's competitiveness in film and tourism compared to other countries in the region.

According to Nicholas Simon, CEO of Indochina Productions, Vietnam has great potential as a film location, with many places that could be used as backdrops for filming, such as Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Hanoi. There are even many unique locations that have never appeared in films before. Vietnamese people are very hospitable, and the working environment is pleasant.

However, to promote the development of cinema and attract filmmakers, Mr. Simon suggested that the Film Law should first create preferential policies that make Vietnam an attractive destination. This would reduce costs for filmmakers, increase government readiness, create a more favorable environment, facilitate easier licensing, and streamline administrative procedures.

According to Joel Rice, the producer of the film "A Traveler's Love Journey," there is currently limited information available to filmmakers about Vietnam as a destination. Meanwhile, many filmmakers are eager to come to Vietnam to film.

"I think Vietnam should consider reducing taxes for foreign filmmakers and creating more promotional programs like this to attract filmmakers and create broader access for international filmmakers," she suggested.

Vietnam invites renowned American directors to a film tourism promotion event.

Vietnam invites renowned American directors to a film tourism promotion event.

Many renowned American directors who have filmed in Vietnam will participate in the Vietnam Tourism and Film Promotion Program in the United States, taking place from September 23-25.
Welcoming the 'blockbuster' film crew: Immediate effect, tourist numbers increase by 200%.

Welcoming the 'blockbuster' film crew: Immediate effect, tourist numbers increase by 200%.

Destinations that serve as settings in films always become instantly attractive tourist destinations. However, while Thailand hosts around 100 film crews each year, Vietnam receives a much smaller number, fewer than two hands.
Businesses pooled money to invite American film producers to promote tourism in Vietnam.

Businesses pooled money to invite American film producers to promote tourism in Vietnam.

Vietnam will encourage filmmakers, especially major American studios, to participate in film productions in Vietnam, with specific support policies. The event's budget is approximately 10 billion VND, entirely funded by corporate contributions.