Mẹ rơm

In a poor, remote village, a young single mother, Loan, struggles to raise her son alone. When her child falls gravely ill and requires expensive medication, Loan faces an impossible choice. She seeks help from the village's wealthy but unfeeling matriarch, Mrs. Muoi, who agrees to provide the funds in exchange for Loan becoming a surrogate mother for her son's child. This arrangement leads to further complications and moral dilemmas within the tightly-knit community.

Mẹ rơm (The Straw Mother) received a generally positive reception, particularly for its poignant storytelling and strong performances from its lead actors. The film was praised for shedding light on the hardships faced by women in rural Vietnamese society and the difficult choices they are sometimes forced to make. While some critics noted predictable plot points, the emotional impact and thematic depth resonated with audiences and critics alike.

• Praised for its emotional depth and impactful portrayal of maternal sacrifice.

• Commended for strong performances, particularly from the lead actress and supporting cast.

• Acknowledged for its realistic depiction of rural Vietnamese life and social issues.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's touching story and powerful acting, with many users expressing that it was an emotional and thought-provoking experience. The film is frequently described as beautiful and moving, resonating with viewers for its portrayal of a mother's love and sacrifice.

The film marks a significant acting role for Vietnamese supermodel H'Hen Niê, who plays the protagonist Loan.