The European Film Festival (EUFF) 2023 in Hanoi opened on the evening of May 21, screening films from 19 European countries, beginning with Close – the film that won the Grand Prix award at the Cannes Film Festival 2022. Attendees were treated to a dazzling array of high-quality films, from classic silent films to the latest blockbusters. The EUFF’s goal was to bridge the cultural gap between Europe and Vietnam while entertaining moviegoers with a truly international film experience. Guests were also treated to a variety of special events, such as discussion panels, master classes, and more, as part of the festival’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange. The EUFF 2023 was a resounding success, with thousands of people from around the world in attendance. Many attendees commented on the quality of the films and the overall atmosphere of the festival. It was truly an event to remember.
With a focus on social, political, and cultural issues, this year’s festival showcases a variety of perspectives from some of the most compelling filmmakers in Europe today.
Featuring a selection of contemporary European cinema, including several award-winning entries, EUFF 2023 presents stories set in a range of spatiotemporal contexts. With a focus on social, political, and cultural issues, this year’s festival showcases a variety of perspectives from some of Europe’s most captivating filmmakers. From nuanced dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, EUFF 2023 highlights the best of contemporary European cinema.
Taking the idea of “journeys” as its starting point, the festival introduces a captivating cast of characters – parents and children, athletes, artists, writers, emigrants, friends, and strangers – who traverse the continent to investigate their identity, community, and heritage, often having an unforgettable time in the process.
Through their perspectives, Europe reveals its kaleidoscopic beauty in all its multifaceted glory.
| Young audiences attended the 22nd European Film Festival opening ceremony in Hanoi. Photo: EU |
Besides the film screenings, the festival’s activities include engaging discussion sessions, which are coordinated by renowned film writer Le Hong Lam. Additionally, there is the Film Review Writing Contest that allows viewers to interact and share their thoughts and feelings about the movies through social media platforms. This provides an exciting opportunity for movie-lovers to exchange ideas and express their opinions.
EU Ambassador to Vietnam Giorgio Aliberti said: “As the birthplace of cinematic art, Europe has always been renowned for its great films from every corner of the continent. Despite this year’s 22nd edition of the EU Film Festival in Vietnam, we are delighted to still be able to showcase a plethora of critically acclaimed, memorable, and always fresh European contemporary films that are packed with human values.”
Attendees of the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) 2023 will experience an array of stories and cultures from across Europe, all united by the common theme of love. From the uplifting story of a young woman finding her way in Slovakia to the heart-warming tale of a middle-aged man in search of love in Hungary, the festival will provide an entertaining and thought-provoking journey through the stories of many different characters. Attendees can also explore the depths of friendship and family affection in films such as Close (Belgium), Mandibles (France), Gentle (Hungary), Loli Paradicka (Slovakia), Woman on the Roof (Poland), Mikado (Romania), or Sanremo (Slovenia). With each unique story, attendees will be able to gain a better understanding of the cultures and experiences of individuals from across Europe.
At EUFF 2023, attendees will be able to explore the many facets of love, friendship, and family affection through a diverse range of films. From the inspiring story of a young woman finding her way in Slovakia to the heartfelt tale of a middle-aged man in search of love in Hungary, attendees will be able to gain a deeper understanding of the cultures and experiences of people across Europe. The films featured at the festival will be a mix of both light-hearted and poignant stories, giving viewers the chance to explore new perspectives and develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of European cultures. Attendees of EUFF 2023 will have the unique opportunity to experience stories of love, friendship, and family affection from across Europe, all united by the common theme of love.
Inspiring messages about self-belief and healing can be found in a variety of melodramas and sports-themed films from across Europe. Miss Viborg (Denmark), Dating Amber (Ireland), Tove (Finland), Above the World (Austria), Precious Ivie (Germany), and The Father (Bulgaria) are just a few examples of the moving stories that explore the power of self-belief and transformation. Additionally, films such as Champions (Spain) and I am Zlatan (Sweden) bring to life the inspiring tales of athletes overcoming adversity to achieve their dreams.
Viewers will also have the opportunity to explore diverse historical settings through captivating films such as The Rising Hawk (Ukraine), Shadow Country (Czech Republic), I’m Fine (Italy), and Mitra (Netherlands). These movies will provide an enriching and immersive experience as you travel back in time.
| European Union Ambassador Giorgio Aliberti speaks at the film festival’s opening ceremony. Photo: EU |
The 19 films of the EUFF 2023 will be showcased at the National Cinema Center, located at 87 Lang Ha Street in Ba Dinh District. For more information about the program and screening schedule, please visit https://engage.eu/euff-vn-2023.
EUFF 2023 is organized by the EU Delegation to Vietnam in cooperation with embassies and cultural institutions of EU Member States and the Embassy of Ukraine in Vietnam, with the support of the EU Policy and Outreach Partnership Initiative (EUPOP).
This is the 22nd edition of the program. In addition to Hanoi, the festival will be held simultaneously in Ho Chi Minh City and Hue from May 19 to June 4.
