The film follows Kit, a British man of Vietnamese heritage, who returns to his homeland after fleeing during the Vietnam War as a child. Now in his 30s, he comes back to scatter his parents’ ashes, reconnect with his roots, and find a sense of belonging.
A Journey Back to a Forgotten Home in Monsoon (2019)
Kit, a British-Vietnamese man, returns to Vietnam after more than 30 years. He left as a child, fleeing with his family at the end of the Vietnam War. Now, he is back to scatter his parents’ ashes and rediscover a past that feels distant.
As he travels through Saigon and Hanoi, he meets people who help him reconnect. His cousin Lee introduces him to the changing culture of modern Vietnam. Linh, a young art student, gives him a glimpse into the country’s future. Then, there is Lewis, an American designer, whose personal history is tied to the same war that shaped Kit’s life.
Love, Identity, and Cultural Differences
What makes Monsoon unique is its take on the intersection of culture and gay sexuality. Kit and Lewis come from different worlds. Kit is the son of refugees, while Lewis’s father was an American soldier in Vietnam. Their romance is more than just attraction—it carries history, guilt, and the weight of expectations.
Their conversations go beyond love. They talk about what it means to be gay in different cultures. They reflect on whether a place can ever truly feel like home. One of the most striking moments in the film is when Lewis speaks about the war’s legacy:
Lewis: “It took a great deal out of us too. A generation forgotten, a country divided. It’s not a war we can recall with pride.”
Kit: “Why would you want to recall it with pride?”
This dialogue highlights how the past lingers in personal relationships. The war shaped both of their lives in ways neither fully understood before meeting each other.
A Film About Atmosphere, Not Action
Monsoon isn’t a fast-paced film. Instead, it focuses on emotions, quiet moments, and unspoken thoughts. The cinematography captures Vietnam beautifully—from Saigon’s chaotic streets to Hanoi’s peaceful corners.
Unlike many films about returning home, Monsoon avoids clichés. Kit doesn’t suddenly feel a deep connection to Vietnam. His journey is uncertain and messy. At times, he feels like an outsider in his own birthplace. This realistic portrayal makes the film feel authentic.
Monsoon (2019) is a subtle but powerful film. It explores how history shapes love, how identity is never simple, and how we exist between cultures.
Instead of dramatic revelations, it presents real-life experiences—especially for those navigating relationships across different backgrounds. If you enjoy quiet, thoughtful films that reflect real emotions, Monsoon is a must-watch.
