The event opened on July 21 at the National Cinema Centre in Hanoi, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The opening screening featured Đừng Đốt (Don't Burn), directed by People's Artist Dang Nhat Minh.

Running from July 21 to 28, the programme is jointly organised by the Cinema Department, film distributors and cinema operators to commemorate people who sacrificed for the country's independence while promoting Vietnam's tradition of gratitude.

A key highlight this year is the participation of every commercial cinema chain nationwide. From July 22 to 24, participating cinemas will offer two free screenings each day, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

In addition to commercial cinemas, the selected films will also be shown at state-run theatres, on the TV360 digital platform and through mobile cinema teams serving communities across the country.

The programme features a selection of acclaimed Vietnamese films centred on wartime memories and national service, including Don't Burn, Mùi Cỏ Cháy (The Scent of Burning Grass), Những Người Viết Huyền Thoại (The Legend Makers), Đường Xuyên Rừng (The Forest Road), Truyền Thuyết Về Quán Tiên (The Legend of Quan Tien) and Bình Minh Đỏ (Binh Minh Do).

At the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ta Quang Dong said War Invalids and Martyrs Day provides an opportunity to honour fallen soldiers, wounded veterans and others who contributed to the country's revolutionary cause and to help educate younger generations about patriotism.

According to the official cinema plays an important role in preserving historical memory, promoting gratitude and inspiring appreciation for the sacrifices made by previous generations in safeguarding national independence.

Following the Hanoi opening, regional launch events will take place in Ho Chi Minh City on July 22 and Ha Tinh province on July 23. The Cinema Department will also organise visits and gift presentations for war veterans, families of fallen soldiers and other policy beneficiaries during the commemorative week.

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