Are Vietnamese films taking over the local box office? The answer is yes. In the first five months of 2026, Vietnamese films have captured a staggering 70.6% share of the domestic box office, leaving international films in the dust. This significant increase in market share has raised eyebrows in the film industry, with many wondering what’s behind this sudden surge in popularity.
To understand this phenomenon, let’s take a step back and look at the numbers. In 2023, Vietnamese films held a modest 42.6% share of the domestic box office. This number increased to 62.2% in 2025, and now, in 2026, it has skyrocketed to 70.6%. This rapid growth is a testament to the quality and appeal of Vietnamese cinema, which seems to be resonating with local audiences.
The Rise of Vietnamese Cinema
So, what’s driving this growth? According to Dinh Thanh Huong, executive chair of Galaxy Studio and CEO of Galaxy Entertainment Holding, the key to success lies in producing high-quality, engaging films that cater to local tastes. Huong, who presented these figures at the inaugural DANAFF Industry Days, emphasized the importance of understanding the local market and creating content that resonates with Vietnamese audiences. This approach has clearly paid off, with Vietnamese films now dominating the box office.
But what about international films? Are they being pushed out of the market? Not entirely. While Vietnamese films are certainly leading the charge, international films still have a significant presence in the market. However, with the rise of Vietnamese cinema, international filmmakers may need to rethink their strategies to remain competitive. This is where global co-productions come in – a topic that Huong touched upon during his presentation.
Global Co-Productions: The Way Forward
Huong urged filmmakers to explore global co-productions as a way to create content that appeals to both local and international audiences. By collaborating with international partners, Vietnamese filmmakers can gain access to new markets, technologies, and expertise, ultimately enhancing the quality and appeal of their films. This approach can also help to promote Vietnamese culture and storytelling to a global audience, which can have a positive impact on the country’s tourism and cultural exchange programs.
The concept of global co-productions is not new, but it’s an area that’s gaining traction in the Vietnamese film industry. By partnering with international filmmakers, Vietnamese producers can tap into new funding sources, access advanced technology, and learn from experienced professionals. This, in turn, can help to elevate the overall quality of Vietnamese films, making them more competitive in the global market.
What’s Next for Vietnamese Cinema?
So, what’s next for Vietnamese cinema? With the local box office dominated by Vietnamese films, it’s likely that we’ll see more investment in the industry, both from local and international players. As the demand for high-quality, engaging content continues to grow, we can expect to see more collaborations between Vietnamese and international filmmakers. This can lead to a new wave of innovative, globally-oriented films that showcase Vietnamese culture and storytelling to the world.
In conclusion, the rise of Vietnamese cinema is a significant development that’s worth watching. With the local box office dominated by Vietnamese films, it’s clear that the industry is on the upswing. As global co-productions become more prevalent, we can expect to see even more exciting and innovative films emerge from Vietnam. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or just curious about the latest trends, the Vietnamese film industry is definitely one to keep an eye on.