Kim Nguyen And Min Sook Lee Films Premiere At DOXA

Two powerful documentary films from the National Film Board of Canada will make their Western Canadian premieres at the DOXA Documentary Film Festival in Vancouver. The festival is scheduled to run from April 30 to May 10, 2026, and will feature works that explore deep emotional and historical themes.

The films, created by Kim Nguyen and Min Sook Lee, focus on how past events and personal histories continue to influence families across generations. Both documentaries combine storytelling with real-life experiences, offering viewers a thoughtful look into hidden truths and long-standing emotional struggles.

Kim Nguyen’s film, Saigon Story: Two Shootings in the Forest Kingdom, marks his return to documentary filmmaking. Known for his earlier work in fiction, Nguyen uses a strong visual style to connect two families to the famous Vietnam War image often referred to as the “Saigon Execution.” The film explores how this historic moment shaped lives and memories, blending history with personal stories and uncovering family secrets linked to the war.

The second film, There Are No Words, directed by Min Sook Lee, takes a deeply personal approach. The documentary examines the impact of Cold War tensions on family life, focusing on Lee’s own father, a former intelligence officer, and the emotional silence surrounding her mother’s death. Through this story, the film highlights how political conflicts can deeply affect private lives and relationships.

Both films have already received recognition at major festivals and awards events. There Are No Words has earned awards and nominations, including recognition for its cinematography and storytelling. The filmmakers themselves also have a strong history with the DOXA festival, having previously presented acclaimed work there.

The screenings will take place at venues across Vancouver, including the VIFF Centre and SFU Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema. Audiences will have the opportunity to watch these films during scheduled screenings in early May.

Overall, these premieres highlight the importance of documentary filmmaking in exploring complex human experiences. By combining personal narratives with historical context, both films offer meaningful insights into how past events continue to shape identities and relationships today.