The move comes after what industry observers describe as an unprecedented wave of horror releases in Vietnamese cinemas. Last week, the country’s three highest-grossing films were all horror titles, highlighting the genre’s growing commercial appeal.

In response to the trend, Dang Tran Cuong, Director General of the Cinema Department, sent an official document to film production companies, distributors and exhibition operators.

According to the department, ongoing monitoring of production, distribution and exhibition activities shows a significant increase in horror films. Some productions, however, have relied heavily on violence, gore, superstition and shock elements without making comparable investments in artistic quality, cinematic language or meaningful social messages.

The department also noted that several imported horror films have required content edits to comply with Vietnamese regulations, affecting their commercial performance. Some titles have failed to qualify for theatrical release in Vietnam altogether.

Citing Politburo Resolution No. 80-NQ/TW and National Assembly Resolution No. 28/2026/QH16 on the development of Vietnamese culture, the Cinema Department urged industry stakeholders to take a more balanced approach to content creation and distribution.

The agency called on filmmakers and distributors to uphold their social responsibility in helping shape public taste and enrich cultural life, particularly for young audiences and groups considered more vulnerable to media influence.

Producers and distributors were also encouraged to develop release strategies that ensure greater diversity in themes and genres. The department expressed support for films that offer strong artistic and ideological value, convey humanistic messages and authentically reflect contemporary social life.

Authorities further encouraged the production of works that help promote an image of Vietnam as a peaceful, friendly, humane, dynamic and developing country. Such films, the department said, can strengthen the nation’s cultural soft power, improve international understanding of Vietnam and foster cultural exchange with other countries.

For both domestic productions and imported films, the department urged greater caution when selecting and portraying themes involving violence, horror, superstition or other content that could negatively affect audience perceptions and behavior. Such content should remain consistent with Vietnam’s cultural traditions, social values and film regulations.

“The Cinema Department hopes all stakeholders will continue working together to build a comprehensive, modern and culturally distinctive Vietnamese film industry,” the document stated. “Such efforts will help promote the image of Vietnam and its people, inspire national pride and aspirations for development, strengthen cultural soft power and enhance the competitiveness of Vietnamese cinema regionally and globally.”

From the beginning of this year, more than ten horror films have been released in Vietnamese theaters, underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the domestic film market.

Tuan Chieu