Playing the role of a Hue city native in the film Trang Noi Day Gieng (Moon at the Bottom of the Well), Hong Anh won a best actress award at the 5th Dubai International Film Festival held December 11-18 last year. She became the first Vietnamese actress to bring home an award from a prestigious international film festival. She recently won the local Golden Kite Best Actress Award for the same role.

How many times did you play the role of Bach Van in Nguoi Dep Tay Do (Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta’s Beauty)? Tell me about the roles that most impressed you.

Bach Van was my first role in a TV series that began in 1995. Over 15 years in my career, I have been in seven films and 12 films for TV. Some roles in TV that impressed me were Bach Van in Nguoi Dep Tay Do (Cuu Long Mekong Delta’s Beauty), Tam in Cau Thang Toi (The Dark Stair), and in films, it would be Tam in Doi Cat (Sand’s Life), Hai Nguyet in Hai Nguyet, Hong in Muoi and Hanh in Trang Noi Day Gieng (Moon in the Bottom of the Well).

What elements make an excellent actor?

First of all, a talent for acting, a love for the profession and a kind heart. Famous actresses and actors are remembered by their roles.

What are some of the weaknesses of Vietnamese actors? How can they be overcome?

I can answer this question by coming back to the question on how to create an excellent actor. They must have talent, the most important element, and a great love for learning about their career. With an emotional spirit, they will have strong sympathy with the roles they act. These are the essential elements that will lead them to success.

What do you think about Asian cinema and working in international cinema? What makes you feel confident?

Working with such countries as Korea, India and China, all of which have established cinematic traditions, is a valuable opportunity for an actress like myself. I learned a lot about everything from acting to film production by working with industries that share a similar culture to Viet Nam’s. In order to integrate into international cinema, Vietnamese performers need to have a variety of acting skills, good health and a professional manner. In addition, foreign languages are an important factor. I have to learn foreign languages and receive training in other skills to meet the demand.

Could you tell me something about your private life?

My full name is Pham Thi Hong Anh. I graduated from a dancing class in 1995. I received an encouragement award after taking the “promising actress/actor” examination. In 2007, I graduated as a scriptwriter from the Viet Nam Movie Association. I received the Golden Lotus Award twice, the sub-actress award in the 5th Asian Film Festival, the best actress award at the 5th Dubai International Film Festival and Viet Nam’s Golden Kite Award 2008 for best actress. This spring, I married businessman and literary critic Nguyen Thanh Son.

What about your future plans?

Two years from now, I want to be spending my time improving my acting and learning about film production. I also want to have time to write a film script.

What else do you want to share with readers?

Cinema is a wonderful world. I love it because it gives me an opportunity to share that wonderful world with everyone.

VietNamNet/VNS