Watch Saigon USA

Saigon USA is an emotional and powerful film set in the Vietnamese-American community of San Francisco in the 1980s. Directed by Lindsey Jang and Robert C. Winn, the film explores the experiences of a Vietnamese family who fled their home country after the fall of Saigon and sought refuge in the United States. Andrew Lam plays the central character of Binh, a young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. Binh was born in Vietnam and raised in the United States, and he feels disconnected from both cultures. He longs for a sense of belonging and a clear identity, but he is haunted by memories of the traumatic events he witnessed during his childhood in Saigon.

Tony Lam plays Binh's father, Tuan, a former South Vietnamese soldier who is haunted by his own memories of war. Tuan is deeply proud of his Vietnamese heritage, but he is struggling to adapt to life in a new country. He finds work as a janitor at a local hospital, but he struggles to make ends meet and feels like an outsider in his new home.

The film examines the challenges faced by Vietnamese immigrants in the United States, including language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination. Binh and Tuan both feel like they are caught between two worlds, and their experiences reflect the struggles faced by many immigrants who must navigate a new and unfamiliar culture.

Saigon USA is a visually stunning film that captures the vibrant colors and textures of San Francisco's Vietnamese-American community. The filmmakers use a blend of English and Vietnamese dialogue to create a sense of authenticity, and the performances of the cast are nuanced and heartfelt. The film also features a moving original score by composer Gino Robair, which adds to the emotional resonance of the story.

Throughout the film, Binh struggles to find his place in the world as he confronts a range of challenges, including racism, poverty, and his own internal conflict. He finds solace in his friendship with a young Vietnamese woman named Hoa (played by Lela Nguyen), who shares his experiences of displacement and isolation.

As Binh begins to explore his cultural identity, he becomes involved in a group of Vietnamese activists who are fighting for the rights of their community. The film explores the tension between assimilation and preserving cultural heritage, as the characters grapple with the question of how to honor their past while building a new future.

Overall, Saigon USA is a profound and moving film that offers a powerful reflection on the experiences of Vietnamese immigrants in the United States. With its authentic performances, stunning visuals, and poignant storytelling, the film is a deeply affecting exploration of the complexities of cultural identity and the challenges of building a new life in a foreign land.