Tam Cam - The Untold Story

In 2016, Vietnamese cinema experienced a fresh gust of wind to the fantasy genre with the release of the epic film, Tam Cam: The Untold Story. The movie propelled director Veronica Ngo to the industry's limelight and retained a magnificent cast, including Ha Vi, Ninh Duong Lan Ngoc, and Ngo herself. Tam Cam: The Untold Story was a spectacle of folklore brought to life in a stunning fusion of fantasy, adventure, and Vietnamese cultural nuances.

The narrative draws inspiration from the fascinating and multilayered structure of an omni-present Vietnamese folklore, similar to the Cinderella story in Western culture. The tale focuses on Tam and her evil step-sister, Cam, addressing the challenging dynamics that exist in their relationship, propelling much of the film's plot.

Tam, played by the luminous and talented actress Ha Vi, is a sweet and hardworking girl who lives with her malevolent stepmother, Mrs. That and her cunning but less intelligent stepsister, Cam. The film starts by painting a gloomy and oppressive life of Tam, where she is constantly subjected to labor and emotional abuse. Despite her trials and tribulations, the character of Tam is beautifully portrayed as someone who unconditionally helps others and attempts to spread positivity.

On the other hand, Cam, played by Ninh Duong Lan Ngoc, molds an entirely different character from her stepsister, showcasing the rich diversity of the film's character spectrum. Cam, envious and relentlessly selfish, pines for the attention and accolades that her long-suffering stepsister receives due to her helpful nature.

Underpinning the narrative arch of the stepsister's conflict is a story in the backdrop, intricately woven in the tapestry of fantasy and nation's political turmoil. This subplot revolves around a kingdom in tension, battling political upheaval, and a king desperately seeking help.

Amid this chaos, a young handsome prince charming emerges not on a white horse but through a surreal and tragic loss. Further fueling the flames of drama is an encounter he has with Tam. From here on, the movie unfolds several twists and turns, weaving the intricate nuances of sibling rivalry, romantic interests, and a kingdom's struggle in a single thread.

The director, Veronica Ngo, also appears in the film, taking on the role of the vicious Queen. Ngo's portrayal of the queen is as compelling as they come, instilling dread in the viewers' hearts with each diabolical grin and deadly glare.

The visuals of Tam Cam: The Untold Story are remarkably captivating. The cinematography skillfully captures the lush landscapes of Vietnam, inserting the viewer right into the heart of scenic mountain ranges, dense forests, and bustling village markets. This visually appealing backdrop sets the scene for epic battles, mythical creatures, and spine-chilling curses. This, combined with an immersive score, brings the magic of Vietnamese folklore to life on the screen.

Beyond its grandiose visual appeal and mind-boggling special effects, the film digs deep into the psyche of characters, capturing their transformation throughout the film's events, particularly highlighting the turbulent journey of Tam. Besides, the movie also casts light on prevailing cultural and societal norms, making the spectator reflect upon these themes present in society at large.

Tam Cam: The Untold Story does well in blending elements of tragedy, comedy, romance, and suspense, offering an entertaining watch for a broad audience. It is also worth mentioning that despite its dramatic takes, the film never loses its core element of Vietnamese folklore, making it an authentic representation of the nation's storytelling traditions.

In summary, Tam Cam: The Untold Story is a visually striking, lavishly produced film that takes audiences on a whirlwind journey of love, betrayal, jealousy, and redemption. Its incorporation of Vietnamese culture and folklore into an engaging narrative structure makes it a must-watch for fans of folklore adaptations, fantasy, and historical dramas. The movie stands as proof that Vietnamese cinema has plenty to offer on the global front, demanding more of such culturally-rich stories to be told.