Vietnam labs

Steve led Documentary Storytelling Labs in Vietnam, an exchange sponsored by the American Film Showcase and the U.S. State Department.

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I designed two intensive, three-day programs for the wonderfully talented producers, directors, writers, cinematographers and editors at Hanoi TV and Ho Chi Minh City TV. The labs were structured to explore modes of storytelling in filming, writing and editing, and expand their palette of styles.

I also met with indie filmmakers who are grappling with the same challenges as independents everywhere, and some unique to Vietnam. They’re pushing ahead with some really creative projects in a heavily censored and restricted media environment.

The program included public screenings in each city of 20 Days in Mariupol, with a panel discussion on storytelling in wartime. Looking at conflict journalism through history, it was remarkable to talk about the “American War” (and the impact of how it was filmed) with people of Vietnam.

Big thanks to the fantastic support from AFS, everyone at the embassy and consulate, and the broadcast networks.

It was a thrill to be there, to see their work and to share some of the ideas and films that inspire me.