Vietnamese horror cinema has carved a niche in the global film industry, distinguished by its use of cultural symbolism to evoke fear. This study scrutinizes the intricate ways in which Vietnamese horror films incorporate indigenous beliefs, customs, and folklore to instill a profound sense of dread among local viewers. It revolves around three pivotal questions: the method by which these films infuse cultural symbols to craft a fear that is both nuanced and culturally relevant; the degree to which these symbols enhance the films' overarching messages or social critiques, possibly reflecting wider societal concerns or historical accounts; and the contrast in the depiction of these symbols in Vietnamese horror films against those from other national cinemas like Thai, Japanese, or American. The research dissects four acclaimed Vietnamese horror movies: "Thất Sơn Tâm Linh" (Kunmanthong), "Quả Tim Máu" (Vengeful Heart), "Bóng Đè" (The Ancestral), and "Lời Nguyền Huyết Ngải" (Blood Curse). By analyzing the employment of cultural symbols in these narratives, the study endeavors to enrich the comprehension of Vietnamese horror cinema's unique faculty for tapping into the specific fears and anxieties of its audience, thereby contributing to the genre's discourse. This exploration into the heart of Vietnamese horror aims to unveil how cultural underpinnings shape the genre's impact and resonance with its audience.

Authors:
Liem Bui Quoc, RMIT University Vietnam, Vietnam

About the Presenter(s)
Liem Bui is currently a Lecturer in the faculty of Professional Communication at RMIT University in Vietnam.

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