Vietnamese journalist-turned-filmmaker Phanxinê made a pivotal decision in 2008 to pursue filmmaking in his native country rather than Hollywood. This choice was influenced by an encounter during his film class at the University of Southern California, where he was advised that a story about a Vietnamese American woman would only be successful if the lead character was white to appeal to a broader audience.
Phanxinê, known professionally by a single name, realized his passion for filmmaking stemmed from wanting to authentically portray the stories of his people, culture, and country. Over 15 years later, he is involved in his first U.S.-based acting role in HBO's adaptation of “The Sympathizer,” alongside a cast of Vietnamese actors.
The series challenges the traditional narrative of the Vietnam War by focusing on the struggles of South Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers, rather than solely on the perspective of the U.S. and its soldiers. The adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen’s novel delves into themes of loss, loyalty, and identity, with Vietnamese actors taking center stage.
The show, which blends drama, comedy, and espionage, follows a half French, half Vietnamese spy known as The Captain, played by Hoa Xuande. The cast also includes Robert Downey Jr. and Sandra Oh. Despite initial concerns about revisiting a traumatic period, the actors feel a sense of responsibility in shaping the narrative.
For some cast members, like Fred Nguyen Khan, the production has been a personal journey of connecting with their heritage. Khan, who plays a South Vietnamese soldier, found the experience to be cathartic and educational, leading to a newfound appreciation for Vietnamese culture.
Long T. Bui, a professor at the University of California, Irvine, highlights the importance of “The Sympathizer” in showcasing the Vietnamese American experience and hopes it will pave the way for more diverse representations in media.
Phanxinê, a prominent filmmaker in Vietnam, believes that many Hollywood portrayals of the Vietnam War lack the authentic perspective of Vietnamese people. The actors involved in the series, like Khan, have high expectations for the show to offer nuanced and realistic portrayals of Vietnamese characters.
