(VOVworld)- The 18th National Film Festival opened on Monday in Halong city of Quang Ninh province with the theme: “Vietnam’s Cinematography: Nation, Humanity, Creativity, Integration”. Prior to the opening ceremony was a minute’s silence in memory of Vietnamese General Vo Nguyen Giap. The 18^th National Film Festival has drawn the participation of 44 cinematographic units across the country with 139 entries, including 62 video documentaries. Hoang Tuan Anh, Minister of Culutre, Sports and Tourism said the festival is the occasion to honor artists and actors who have contributed to the national film industry: Over the past 60 years, the Vietnamese film industry has developed along side national construction and defense. Today Vietnam is integrating into international film with a comprehensive art reflecting the nation’s spirit and social life and initiating community awareness and benevolence. Vietnamese film is an effective tool for introducing the Vietnamese land and people to international friends.

The Film Festival will take place in the city of Halong. Photo: VOV

The judges will award one Golden Lotus and two Silver Lotus awards in each category. The categories are narrative films, video movies, documentaries, video documentaries, scientific films, and animations.