Representation of Vietnam in Vietnamese and U.S. War Films: A Comparative Semiotic Study of Canh Dong Hoang and Apocalypse Now
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Date
2009-12
Authors
Nguyen, Nguyet, 1980-
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This comparative semiotic study aims to examine and critically compare the
portrayal of the Vietnam War in two award-winning films, one Vietnamese and the other
American, both made in 1979: Canh Dong Hoang (The Wild Rice Field) and Apocalypse
Now. This study employs semiology to examine the two films in the framework of postcolonial,
ideology and hegemony theories to critically compare similarities and
differences in the two films' portrayal of "the enemy," nationalism and individualism,
and women, in order to understand how dominant perspectives of the times are reflected,
reinforced, and challenged. In Apocalypse Now, the "other" is faceless, which reflects an
imperialistic standpoint toward the Vietnamese people; nationalism is promoted by
calling on individual suffering and sympathy; and women are diminished. Canh Dong Hoang gives "the enemy" a more balanced depiction; nationalism is woven naturally with
individualism; and the women in the film play a much more significant role.
Description
xii, 125 p. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.
Keywords
Vietnam -- In motion pictures, Apocalypse now (Motion picture), Canh Dong Hoang (Motion picture)