The honor was presented during the American Film Reception, held as part of the Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF).

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Actress Kieu Chinh and American actress Jane Seymour receive commemorative awards during the American Film Reception.

The award recognizes Kieu Chinh's decades-long contribution to cinema, both in Vietnam and internationally, as well as her efforts to promote collaboration between the Vietnamese and US film industries.

A lifelong commitment to cinema

Speaking after receiving the award, Kieu Chinh said she was deeply honored by the recognition.

She expressed hope that the Da Nang Asian Film Festival would continue to grow into a leading regional event, bringing together filmmakers and artists from across Southeast Asia while creating more opportunities for international co-productions.

Reflecting on her return to Vietnam after many years abroad, Kieu Chinh told VietNamNet that she was pleasantly surprised by the remarkable progress of the country's film industry.

She said Vietnamese cinema now boasts many high-quality productions and a promising new generation of actors.

"Age is just a number"

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Kieu Chinh attends the closing ceremony of the 2026 Da Nang Asian Film Festival at the age of 89.

At 89, while many of her contemporaries have retired, Kieu Chinh remains actively involved in filmmaking.

She continues to impress audiences with her vitality, sharp mind and positive outlook.

For the actress, age has never been the defining measure of an artist.

"Age is just a number," she said. "What matters most for an artist is emotion. I love this profession deeply and always feel full of energy whenever it comes to cinema. I simply keep working and try to live each day to the fullest. When my health no longer allows it, then I'll stop. What brings me the greatest happiness is the love and warm welcome I receive whenever I return home. That is the most precious reward of all."

Return to Vietnamese cinema

Kieu Chinh traveled from the United States to Vietnam to attend this year's festival.

Throughout the event, she actively participated in panel discussions, audience exchanges and meetings with filmmakers from Vietnam and abroad.

Her leading role in The Cocoon also marks her return to Vietnamese cinema after more than a decade.

Directed by J. Robert Schulz, the film has already been introduced at several major international film events, including the Cannes Film Festival, before its appearance at DANAFF.

The cast also includes Uy Nhan, Daniel K. Winn, Samuel An, Lan Thy, and Le Anh Huy.

The production is currently awaiting screening approval in Vietnam and is expected to be released in September.

Tuan Chieu