Running from June 1 to 5, the programme features restored Swedish film classics alongside a selection of restored Vietnamese animated films, offering young audiences an opportunity to explore the cinematic heritage of both countries while promoting cultural exchange through storytelling and film.

The event pays tribute to renowned Swedish children’s author Astrid Lindgren and generations of Vietnamese animation filmmakers. The programme features three newly restored Swedish films alongside a collection of 11 Vietnamese animated works spanning six decades, from classic productions to films released in 2024.

In his opening speech, Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam Johan Ndisi said Astrid Lindgren’s characters embody core Swedish values such as independence, equality and respect for children’s voices. He noted that the film week brings human-centred stories to young Vietnamese audiences while showing the longstanding cultural partnership between the two countries, in which cinema has played an important connecting role.

One of the world’s leading children’s authors, Lindgren’s works have been translated into more than 100 languages and continue to inspire generations of readers with stories that celebrate courage, independence and empathy.

The film week also highlights the long-standing cooperation between Vietnam and Sweden in cinema and cultural exchange. Since the 1970s, Sweden has supported the development of Vietnam’s film industry through professional exchanges, technical cooperation and partnerships in film preservation and archiving.

Director of the Vietnam Film Institute Le Thi Ha said introducing the films forms part of the institute’s mission to preserve and promote cinematic heritage. She noted that Astrid Lindgren’s works represent some of the highest standards in children’s storytelling, combining artistic quality with emotional depth for audiences of all ages.

The Vietnam-Sweden Children’s Film Week underscores the enduring power of storytelling in connecting cultures and generations while contributing to stronger cultural links between Vietnam and Sweden.

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