☛ Cette critique est aussi disponible en français [➦].
Translated by Gabrielle Baillargeon-Michaud.
Navigating the realms between documentary and fictional storytelling, Má Sài Gòn unfolds as a tribute to the intimate moments, everyday experiences, and the elemental simplicity of queer lives in Saigon, Vietnam. It delves deep into the fabric of human relationships—encompassing friendships, romantic bonds, and familial ties—through the lens of a diverse group whose lives intersect in the vibrant chaos of Saigon. Director Khoa Lê invites viewers to immerse themselves in the daily realities of individuals from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, including those identifying as lesbian, transgender, gay, queer, and non-binary. Stepping away from traditional narrative structures, the film opts for a sensory journey, with dialogues weaving through the hum of the city, prompting viewers to engage with the movie through a broader sensory palette, thus opening avenues for imaginative exploration.
Khoa Lê, a young filmmaker, director, and video designer based in Montreal, skillfully oscillates between the inventive demands of advertising and the enveloping world of screening rooms. His notable artistic fluidity marks him as a distinctive maestro, adept at orchestrating his varied talents into a cohesive, creative vision.
With meticulous care, Khoa Lê paints an intimate sketch of the protagonists, steering clear of voyeurism. Individuals are depicted in their entirety, rather than being presented through an exoticizing lens. As dazzling as it is poignant, the film offers an authentic representation of queer realities in Saigon. It portrays a world where chosen families, biological families, love, and friendship coexist without hierarchy, creating a film atmosphere that, while potentially heavy, is counteracted by a sense of completeness as the camera focuses on the profound connections among the characters.
Reference
Director/creator : Khoa Lê
Title : Má Sàigòn
Date of parution : February 2nd, 2024