On February 13, according to Box Office Vietnam, "Ghost Light" earned 73 billion VND, topping the box office.
The film received much attention from the audience and was discussed on forums. Critic Le Hong Lam commented: "The film has a bold and very valuable direction. This is not only a horror film but also a work that reflects culture."
One of the strengths of "Ghost Lamp" is the setting. The film was filmed in locations with strong historical and cultural significance such as Cao Bang and Bac Ninh, helping to recreate the ancient atmosphere.
Each frame is meticulously arranged, from light, color to composition, creating a magical, ghostly atmosphere. Scenes of rivers, temples, or dark alleys are inserted, bringing a creepy feeling.
"Ghost Lamp" explores spiritual themes, not only talking about souls or supernatural phenomena but also mentioning the concept of cause and effect, karma and the connection between the underworld and the living world.
The story of the film revolves around the unresolved ghosts and the mysteries buried through many generations. The worshiping customs and prayers bring a sense of familiarity and closeness to Vietnamese audiences.
Looking back at the initial success of "Den Am Hon", it can be seen that Vietnamese audiences are increasingly interested in films inspired by folk materials.
Director Hoang Nam and his crew were inspired by the legend of The Daughter of Nam Xuong, retelling it in cinematic language, arousing concerns about human destiny, injustice and spiritual beliefs in Vietnamese culture.
The film opens with the story of Thuong (Diem Trang) - a young woman raising her son alone, waiting for her husband to return from the army. Linh (Thuong's son) accidentally picks up a lamp and calls the shadow on the wall his father.
The mother and son did not expect this to be a spirit lamp. Linh's communication with the shadow may have summoned an evil spirit in the lamp to return for revenge. The appearance of the magician Lieu (Hoang Kim Ngoc) and his younger brother Huong (Tuan Mo) brings a mysterious and spooky color to the film.
