Tunnel

The movie follows a scrappy 21-person Vietnamese guerrilla squad that ends up in the crosshairs of a US forces search and destroy mission. Their task is to protect a newly arrived strategic intelligence team hiding at their base, no matter what it takes. The plot isn't overly complex, so the film hooks you more with the characters' inner struggles than with battlefield tactics.

I really liked how the story kicks off with a lost soldier stumbling into the guerrilla team's tunnel network. It sparks some funny and engaging moments that flesh out the bonds between the Vietnamese soldiers. But as the film hits its midpoint, the escalating tension of the war with the US army starts to drown out those emotional connections. I get why it shifts that way, but it's a pity the soldiers' sacrifices didn't land with more weight. It would've hit harder if the director had ramped up the emotional stakes, especially when the guerrilla leader, a key figure, meets his end. That moment deserved a bigger payoff.

There's a touch of sex in the film too nothing overdone, and it feels grounded. I think it's a realistic nod to something rarely explored in stories about Vietnam War soldiers. After all, these are young guys in their prime, still human despite the chaos.

The sound design really stands out. The director nails the raw punch of bombs and gunfire. Visually, it's strong too smart camera angles and solid framing. That's a huge plus in making the film feel real as it brings history to life.

I held my breath watching the film. To me, it was deeply moving. I trembled at times as I watched it. Anyone who has been to Cu Chi has likely heard stories about the terror of both the guerrilla fighters and the sweeping raids. But seeing it all brought to life in the film filled me with both fear and admiration. The story and the way it was told were very different from typical state-produced films - deeply human, incredibly raw, and full of real life. The characters and details were developed with consultation from real heroes of the past war. Although I was on the verge of tears many times while watching the film, Dia Dao is certainly not a tearjerker. Instead, it lets us experience the restrained emotions of the soldiers, who had to suppress their feelings because danger was always present - there was no room for soft emotions to take over. At the same time, the personal stories, the bonds, and the genuine affection among humble people truly help us believe in and better understand the many reasons behind the victories of Cu Chi in particular, and Vietnam as a whole.

A short and succinct summary of one of many battles conducted during the VN war. Dark and realistic, director Chuyen takes artistic liberties yet still fully immerse audience in VN in the 1900s. The cast was a fresh and enthusiastic ensemble which brought a much needed breath of fresh air to the acting quality. The story, although rough around the edges, paints a lovely picture of the patriotism and humanity of the characters (more like children) involved in the preservation of indepence. The ending was artisticly beautiful, albeit I believe it leaves audience with more emotions than actual answers, conclusive endings to the stories told.

Tunnel 2025 is an emotional and realistic portrayal of the struggles and sacrifices made during a pivotal time in Vietnam's history. The film does a great job capturing the raw emotions and the human side of war, making it more than just a historical retelling-it's a story that touches the heart.

While some scenes were a bit difficult to follow, especially for viewers unfamiliar with certain historical contexts, the overall message remains powerful. The film serves as a reminder of the determination and unity that helped shape our nation.

Vietnamese youngsters should definitely watch Tunnel 2025. It's not just a film-it's an opportunity to better understand the sacrifices our ancestors made and the lengths they went to in order to reunite our country.

Watching The Underground Passage by director Bui Thac Chuyen stirs a deep and powerful wave of emotions-intense, haunting, and profoundly moving. The film is not merely a cinematic experience; it's an emotional journey that draws the viewer into a hidden current beneath the surface, guiding them through shadowy frames filled with tension and quiet despair.

Emotions rise as we witness the resilience and unyielding spirit of people pushed to the very edge. There are moments that tighten the chest-acts of sacrifice, loneliness, and fleeting glimpses of love and hope glimmering in the darkness. Every sound, every ray of light piercing through the cracks in the earth feels like it touches something raw within, evoking deep reflections on war, humanity, and memory.

The Underground Passage doesn't scream-it whispers, but its echoes linger long after the credits roll. The feelings it stirs remain: a quiet ache, a mixture of pride and sorrow, and a profound reminder of what must not be forgotten.