The Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF) in Singapore recently became the stage for an exciting announcement: the film adaptation of Vu Trọng Phụng’s acclaimed 1936 novel, “Dumb Luck” (Số Đọ), has been officially unveiled. This novel is widely recognized as one of the most significant works in 20th-century Vietnamese literature, embodying the complexities of Vietnamese society during a transformative era. The joint effort by Fremantle, Beach House Pictures, and Anh Teu Studio represents a fusion of local and international talent aimed at breathing new life into a literary classic.
Set against the backdrop of 1930s Vietnam, the narrative of “Dumb Luck” engages with a period characterized by the waning of French colonial influence and the burgeoning of nationalist sentiments. It delves deeply into the life of Red-Haired Xuan, portrayed by popular Vietnamese singer MONO. This compelling character begins as a destitute vagrant yet embarks on a tumultuous journey to rise through the ranks of society, capturing the public’s admiration along the way. Such a premise not only highlights individual ambition but also reflects the larger societal shifts occurring in Vietnam during that time—making it a suitable piece for cinematic adaptation.
Phan Gia Nhat Linh, known for his previous works such as “The Girl From Yesterday,” takes on the roles of director and writer for this adaptation, promising to deliver an authentic yet contemporary interpretation of Phụng’s timeless story. One of the film’s most notable aspects is its international collaboration; as a co-production involving Vietnamese, Korean, and Singaporean entities, it aims to synthesize diverse cultural perspectives. This cross-border partnership is crucial in appealing to a broader audience and making Vietnamese narratives accessible on the global stage.
Reviving a Banned Classic
Interestingly, it’s important to note that “Dumb Luck” faced a significant history of censorship in Vietnam, remaining banned from 1954 until 1986. Despite this, an excerpt titled “The Happiness of a Family in Mourning” gained traction as part of the official literature curriculum in Vietnamese high schools, indicating its cultural significance and the lingering curiosity surrounding its themes. The novel’s accessibility in translations throughout the US, China, Germany, and the UK further illustrates its global relevance and the interest in Vietnamese storytelling beyond national borders.
The Anticipation of Audiences
Writer, director, and producer Phan expresses enthusiasm for introducing this Vietnamese narrative to international audiences, showcasing the collaborative spirit of Anh Teu Studio alongside Fremantle and Beach House Pictures. Similarly, Christian Vesper, CEO Global Drama & Film at Fremantle, shares his excitement about this partnership and the opportunity to bring such an iconic Vietnamese novel to life. As the film prepares for distribution in Vietnam via CJ CGV, expectations are high for a reception that reflects its storied past and vibrant storytelling tradition.
The adaptation of “Dumb Luck” not only pays homage to a significant Vietnamese literary work but also serves as an important cultural dialogue that bridges histories and audiences across the globe. As the film approaches its release, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in bringing diverse stories to life.
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