The short stories by Nguyen Ngoc Tu from a cinematic perspective (case by survey of the short stories collection “The Island”)

Nguyen Ngoc Tu is a leading contemporary Vietnamese writer whose works have had a notable impact on literature and cinema, with several short stories adapted for the screen. “The Island” marks an important stage in her career, demonstrating both her distinctive narrative style and strong potential for cinematic adaptation. This article examines the collection from a film-oriented perspective, analyzing its narrative patterns, themes, characterization, genre, and language. It argues that the cinematic quality of Nguyen Ngoc Tu’s writing derives from its visual suggestiveness, atmospheric depth, and emotionally fragmented narrative structure. Themes such as displacement, loneliness, and the search for belonging align closely with film language, which can intensify these emotional registers through mise-en-scène and audiovisual techniques. On this basis, the study identifies key elements that facilitate the transition from literature to cinema, including narrative economy, evocative imagery, and socially resonant concerns. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the literature–cinema relationship in contemporary Vietnam and highlight Nguyen Ngoc Tu’s role in enhancing the adaptability of Vietnamese literature.