Goodbye Mother

Quan, a young Vietnamese filmmaker living in America, returns to his hometown after a decade away to visit his dying father. He brings along his boyfriend, Ian, a decision that stirs up old tensions and forces him to confront his past, his family's expectations, and his unresolved feelings for Linh, his childhood best friend. The film navigates the complexities of family duty, cultural identity, and repressed love.

Goodbye Mother was a significant film for Vietnamese cinema, praised for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and its exploration of family dynamics. It garnered a positive reception both critically and commercially, resonating with audiences for its emotional depth and relatable characters.

• Praised for its heartfelt and honest depiction of a gay son's return to his family.

• Appreciated for its exploration of cultural expectations and personal identity.

• Lauded for its strong performances, particularly from the lead actors.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly loved Goodbye Mother, highlighting its emotional impact and the relatable struggle of balancing personal desires with familial obligations. Many found the film to be moving and thought-provoking, with specific praise for its sensitive handling of its themes.

Nominated for Best Feature Film at the Iris Prize Festival.

The film was inspired by director Trịnh Đình Lê Minh's own experiences returning to Vietnam and confronting his family's expectations.