Although directors, writers, and cinematographers may get most of the glory, production designers are integral contributors to a film production. If the director is a magician, then production design is the ‘gold dust’ that allows the audience to escape into the magical world of a film through the sets, costumes and make-ups.
Gathering some of the most experienced talents in the film industry in Vietnam: Nguyễn Minh Đương (production designer), Thuỷ Nguyễn (costume designer) and Jenni Trang Lê (producer), this conversation will share insights into the work of those creating the visual appeal and stylistic integrity of a feature film. In order to create a particular look of a film, what kind of tasks does this line of work entail? Is there a formula for every production? Given the recent ticket box success of domestic movies, in Vietnam, has production design contributed to such accolade? What are the current challenges that need to be addressed in order for continued success?
This event will unpack the context of production design in the Vietnamese film industry, continuing with more detailed insights drawn from the experiences of realizing two films: ‘Cô Ba Sài Gòn’ (‘The Tailor’), 2017 – an original screenplay blending both past and present; and ‘Trạng Tí’ (2021).
This round table discussion on design in film, will open up further conversation with regards to Thuỷ Nguyễn’s diverse creative practices, as narrated in her current exhibition at The Factory ‘Thuỷ Nguyễn – An Everyday Dream’. Thank you to TOONG and Hoa Sen University – Faculty of Design for the generous support on communication and venue.
