Hong Dao: At nearly 70 years old, I've thought about the day I'll end my life

Hanoi [Vietnam], September 8: Hong Dao admitted that acting in director Khuong Ngoc's film 'Lei Xiang' (Rising to Prosperity) made her change her thinking about leaving home.
On the afternoon of September 7th, the premiere of the film " Len Huong" (Rising in Prosperity) took place in Ho Chi Minh City. This project marks the collaboration between director Khuong Ngoc and director Tan Hoang Thong, and features a cast including Hong Dao, People's Artist Hong Van, Meritorious Artist Tuyet Thu, Vo Tan Phat, Quoc Khanh, Ha Anh, and others.
Artist Hong Dao shares her thoughts.
"Len Hương" marks the third time Khương Ngọc has collaborated with artist Hồng Đao. Previously, the two had worked together on " Chị dâu va Cục vang của ngoại" (Sister-in-law and Grandma's Golden Treasure ) . In this project, the female artist appears with a strong, carefree image as she transforms into a woman working in the funeral industry. The role of Mrs. Mũi brings Hồng Đao many new experiences.
"Previously, I saw coffins as symbols of death, but after participating in 'Len Huong' and interacting with funeral service workers, I've gained a completely different perspective on this profession and on life. I've truly learned so much from this role. Instead of regretting anything, I think I should just live a more decent life and love one another," she shared.
Hong Dao further shared that at nearly 70 years old, she also has some health problems, so "I've thought about passing away." The female artist confided: "Once I watched a clip that said, if you want to live peacefully, there are two things you shouldn't be afraid of: first, don't be afraid of hunger, and second, don't be afraid of death. But who isn't afraid of death? Through the films of Khuong Ngoc and Tan Hoang Thong, I have a different perspective."
Speaking about collaborating with Khuong Ngoc for the third time, Hong Dao said she often jokingly refers to herself as a "regular collaborator" with her younger colleague. However, this connection stems from the fact that the director's projects meet the criteria she sets.
"My first criterion for selection was the script. ' Upcoming' is a project with a very good concept, and I've never tried playing the role of Mrs. Mui before. Getting this role was a stroke of luck for me. Not every film offers the roles I want, so when an opportunity comes, I have to seize it," Hong Dao expressed.
Responding to the criticism that, at nearly 70 years old, Hong Dao appears frequently on the big screen, the actress humorously stated that she feels she's being unfairly judged. She explained that some projects were completed long ago but coincidentally released at the same time. "This year I've made three films, which is a bit overwhelming for me. Now that I'm almost 70, I'm really enjoying it. This is a journey for me to explore roles I've never played before," the actress, born in 1964, shared.
Besides Hong Dao, the role of Mrs. Lan played by Meritorious Artist Tuyet Thu also attracted attention. According to the actress, director Khuong Ngoc's working style was also a memorable experience. She shared: "At first, when Ngoc said, 'Sister, let's work together,' I accepted because I liked his previous films and had faith in him. During the preparation process, Ngoc often invited me for coffee, and we talked privately about the character. Each time, I would bring those stories home and continue to think, trying to understand Mrs. Lan more." At the same time, Meritorious Artist Tuyet Thu also admitted that Mrs. Lan is the most challenging role in her acting career to date.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper