PG-13

The Vertical Ray of the Sun

2000 • 112 min • Drama · Romance

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Synopsis

Hanoi comes across almost picture-perfect in director Tran Anh Hung's beautiful, elegiac tale about the lives and loves of three Vietnamese sisters. A mood characteristic of Hung's films is set early on with the vivid sounds of birds, insects and water and the way the lighting enhances the subtle use of color. They all combine to gem-like effect here.

Our family guide

Best from age 13

Movie Knight Score

69 reviews

66 Audience · 69 · 100%

This beautiful, elegiac film explores the lives and loves of three Vietnamese sisters in Hanoi, focusing on their relationships, desires, and the subtle complexities of family bonds. It’s a visually rich story about discovery and emotional awakenings.

Violence & peril: 1/10
Language: 2/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 3/10
Romance & sensuality: 4/10
Scary moments: 0/10

Heads up

Discussions of infidelity
Some suggestive situations
Characters consume alcohol and smoke

What it models well

Family closeness and support
Honesty and self-discovery
Cultural appreciation

Talk about it after

Different forms of love and relationships
The importance of open communication in families
Navigating personal desires versus family expectations

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for The Vertical Ray of the Sun. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.