Vietnamese actress Can Quan made a powerful statement about transgender representation in cinema during her appearance at the International Film Festival of India in Panaji on Monday. The rising star, who features in the acclaimed movie 'Skin of Youth', emphasized that cinema possesses the unique ability to bridge understanding gaps about transgender communities.
Cinema as a Tool for Social Change
Can Quan revealed that her inspiration for taking on the role came from observing transgender individuals in countries like the United States and Hong Kong, where she witnessed them expressing their identities freely through various art forms including fashion, music, and visual arts. "When I was young, I saw people from the transgender community in nations such as the US and Hong Kong expressing their individualities through art, fashion, and music," Quan Tran shared. "So this movie was my chance to express my individuality through the character."
International Recognition and Future Plans
The film's director, Ashleigh Mayfair, expressed optimism about bringing the movie to Vietnamese audiences. Mayfair confirmed that the team hopes to release 'Skin of Youth' in Vietnam, building on its positive international reception at various film festivals. The director highlighted how the film has already contributed to validating the existence and experiences of transgender communities worldwide through its festival screenings.
"The movie has been welcomed internationally at other film festivals and gave value to the existence of transgender communities worldwide," Mayfair stated. "We hope that this movie helps the Vietnamese audience understand the perspective of a transgender individual."
Breaking Barriers Through Artistic Expression
The participation of 'Skin of Youth' at IFFI marks a significant moment for both Vietnamese cinema and transgender representation in Asian film. Can Quan's passionate advocacy underscores a growing movement within the global film industry to use cinematic platforms for promoting social inclusion and understanding of marginalized communities.
The International Film Festival of India continues to serve as a crucial platform for films addressing important social issues, with 'Skin of Youth' representing exactly the kind of content that can spark meaningful conversations about diversity and acceptance across different cultures and societies.
