In recent years, Vietnamese historical films have struggled to create memorable characters that resonate with the public. While international films like 'Lincoln' and 'Oppenheimer' have successfully portrayed historical figures, Vietnam's cinema often falls short, despite having a rich tapestry of compelling stories and characters.

The recent casting of actress Tăng Thanh Hà as Empress Nam Phương has reignited a long-standing debate regarding the expectations placed on historical films. Audiences frequently scrutinize the physical resemblance between actors and the historical figures they portray, often leading to intense discussions before the films even hit theaters. This was evident in the casting process for the role of Võ Thị Sáu in the film 'Đất đỏ,' where the production team faced challenges finding the right actress among 1,200 candidates.

As director Nguyễn Tùng Lâm noted, the casting process has become increasingly difficult due to the public's growing expectations. Today, audiences are quick to judge based on initial images, teasers, or posters, often analyzing every detail of an actor's appearance. Social media has transformed viewers into critics, capable of derailing a film's success even before its release.

Moreover, as Dr. Nguyễn Văn Trình from the Institute of Social Sciences pointed out, the internet has changed how audiences engage with history. Viewers can easily access archival materials and scholarly opinions, leading to a more informed and critical audience. While this reflects a growing interest in national history, it has also resulted in a narrow focus on factual accuracy at the expense of artistic expression.

Dr. Trình emphasized that cinema is not merely a historical textbook but an art form that tells stories through images. While it is crucial for films based on real figures to maintain historical integrity, strict adherence to facts can stifle creativity. The essence of a historical character often lies in their complex inner life, which cannot always be captured in historical records.

Globally, few iconic performances are remembered solely for their resemblance to real-life figures. For instance, Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Édith Piaf in 'La Vie en Rose' was celebrated not for her physical similarity but for her exceptional acting, which transcended the differences in appearance. Similarly, Charlize Theron's transformation for the role of Aileen Wuornos in 'Monster' showcased her ability to convey the character's internal struggles rather than mere physical likeness.

Some film scholars argue that the debate over Tăng Thanh Hà's casting as Empress Nam Phương is less significant than the broader issue of Vietnamese cinema's failure to create lasting historical figures that resonate with audiences. Vietnam possesses a wealth of historical characters, such as Trần Hưng Đạo and Lý Thường Kiệt, yet few cinematic portrayals have become cultural touchstones.

In contrast, global cinema has demonstrated the power of screen portrayals in shaping public memory. Characters like Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, and Elvis Presley are indelibly linked to their cinematic representations, which have helped define public perceptions of these figures.

Ultimately, the challenge for Vietnamese filmmakers lies in balancing the expectations of historical accuracy with the need for compelling storytelling. As the industry evolves, it must find ways to create characters that not only reflect historical truths but also resonate with contemporary audiences.