Sun In The Dark in Tunnels by Jennie Kermode

Beneath the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City lies a history etched into the earth—a legacy defined by forgotten tunnels and the relentless spirit of resistance. This story isn’t just about concrete and administration; it’s about the enduring memory of the Cù Chi district, a place that holds secrets spanning half a century.

Fifty-three years ago, this area served a crucial function in the war effort, yet its purpose and context were vastly different. Laboriously carved out by hand by members of the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, the vast tunnel network remains visible beneath the city, a haunting reminder of the struggle that shaped the nation.

While ongoing efforts are transforming the Cù Chi district into a specialist administrative area today, the physical tunnels themselves face an uncertain future. Though much of the original network persists, it is unlikely to survive the new phase of construction planned for the area. What truly endures, however, are the stories—the profound human narratives—that this subterranean landscape represents.

This enduring legacy has found a powerful voice in recent cinematic work. Director Bùi Thac Chuyên’s film captures this complex history, weaving the physical reality of the tunnel complex with stark rural landscapes to tell a deeper story of endurance and change.

The film cleverly utilizes segments of the original tunnel network for its sets, grounding the narrative in tangible history. Yet, it masterfully blends these historical elements with rural settings—places where burned and butchered trees cling to muddy ground, mirroring the environmental scars left by earlier conflicts, such as those caused by American assailants.

Through this juxtaposition, the film transcends mere documentation. It transforms the physical space into a metaphor for the nation’s experience, emphasizing how history is not just what we build, but what we remember and reveal. This artistic interpretation ensures that the role of Cù Chi in shaping the country remains vividly alive, offering audiences a powerful perspective on the enduring human spirit.

By Ava Taylor