HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer’ Brings Vietnamese Culture to Life

Viet Thanh Nguyen’s novel “The Sympathizer,” once deemed “unadaptable,” has now transitioned into a critically acclaimed HBO limited series, showcasing Vietnamese culture in a profound and personal manner.

Premiering on April 14, the series delves into the story of an American-educated, half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy known as the Captain (portrayed by Hoa Xuande), who infiltrates the South Vietnam military during the Vietnam War. Following the war’s end, he seeks refuge in Los Angeles, continuing his espionage work while posing as a refugee. However, his mission becomes complex as he forges meaningful relationships within the community he’s meant to infiltrate, leading him to question his allegiance to the communist cause.

During a screening event in Los Angeles, Viet Thanh Nguyen shared insights into the series, emphasizing its significance beyond a typical book adaptation. For Nguyen and others involved, particularly those of Vietnamese descent, “The Sympathizer” presented an opportunity to authentically represent their culture on a global platform.

“As someone who grew up in a Vietnamese language household, it was incredibly moving to hear the Vietnamese dialogue spoken with different accents and generations on this TV show,” Nguyen expressed.

The series boasts an international cast and crew, including director Park Chan-wook, executive producers Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey, and stars Hoa Xuande and Sandra Oh. This diverse ensemble worked collaboratively to capture and portray the nuances of the Vietnamese experience onscreen.

During the casting process, executive producer Susan Downey was struck by the depth of talent within the Vietnamese community. The extended audition period uncovered a wealth of untapped potential, providing Vietnamese actors with the opportunity to lead and share their stories authentically.

Robert Downey Jr. echoed this sentiment, expressing admiration for the cast’s sophistication and versatility. He emphasized the importance of embracing cultural diversity and learning from the richness of different identities.For Hoa Xuande, landing the role of the Captain was a transformative experience. He felt both thrilled and responsible, aiming to honor the refugee experience authentically through his performance.

“From the set design to the dialogue to the stories of refugees coming to America, we aimed to portray three-dimensional characters, moving beyond simplistic narratives of desperation,” Xuande reflected.

Sandra Oh, who portrays antiwar protester Sofia Mori, emphasized the significance of her role in supporting young Vietnamese actors navigating personal and generational trauma during filming. Oh’s presence provided a safe space for exploration and understanding.

Director Park Chan-wook, drawn to the project on a personal level, shared his emotional connection to Vietnam’s history, reflecting on the shared struggles of imperialism and division experienced by Korea and Vietnam.

Ultimately, Viet Thanh Nguyen hopes “The Sympathizer” helps audiences grasp the profound internal differentiation within Vietnamese culture shaped by politics, history, language, and region.

“This series encapsulates a specific moment in time and place, showcasing the intricate diversity of Vietnamese experiences,” Nguyen concluded.

“The Sympathizer” represents a significant step forward in authentically portraying Vietnamese culture onscreen, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the post-war Vietnamese refugee experience. Through its international collaboration, the series exemplifies the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides and foster meaningful connections.