Since its premiere on August 22, the film, directed by Dang Thai Huyen, has reached VN$335 billion, surpassing Bộ Tứ Báo Thủ (The 4 Rascals) directed by Tran Thanh that brought back VND332 billion, according to Box Office Vietnam. Red Rain now ranks fifth on the list of the highest-grossing domestic films in Vietnamese cinema history.

The film also set a daily revenue record. On August 31 alone, it earned VND44 billion, breaking the previous record of VND43.9 billion set by Mai on February 14, 2024. This milestone cements Red Rain as a cultural phenomenon and proves that revolutionary war-themed films can compete strongly in Vietnam’s commercial market.

Even after 10 days of screening, audience interest continues to grow, fueled by the upcoming National Day holiday on September 2. Industry observers predict the film could surpass VND500 billion, potentially overtaking Mai (VND551 billion) to become the highest-grossing Vietnamese film of all time.

Red Rain is adapted from the novel of the same name written by Chu Lai and directed by Dang Thai Huyen. Set during the fiery summer of 1972, the story depicts the Liberation Army reclaiming Quang Tri Citadel, while US forces and the Army of the Saigon puppet regime launched a fierce counterattack to retake the ancient citadel, aiming to gain leverage at the negotiating table.

The plot follows Cuong, a conservatory student who gives up an overseas scholarship to join the army. He fights alongside his squadmates - Ta, Binh, Tu, Hai, and Sen from different regions who, despite their contrasting personalities, share a common ideal of peace.

Intense battles gradually deplete their numbers, leaving haunting scenes on screen: soldiers buried in the earth, mangled bodies, and dangerous river crossings that move audiences to tears. The “red rain” motif symbolises the sacrifices and bloodshed of a generation devoted to their homeland.

The film has been praised for its 50-hectare set, meticulous production, realistic visual effects, and emotive performances by the young cast. While remaining faithful to the heroic spirit of the original novel, the filmmakers emphasised real combat sequences, reducing literary embellishments to heighten authenticity.

Iconic war films in Vietnam to be screened for free at DANAFF III

VOV.VN - A total of 22 classic films featuring wars in Vietnam will be screened for free in the curated programme “Half A Century of Vietnamese War Cinema” at the third Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF III) from June 29 to July 5.