Writer & Director
Ash Mayfair
(Feature film debut)

Stars
Nguyễn Phương Trà My, Trần Nữ Yên Khê , Mai Thu Hường (Maya) and Lê Vũ Long

Though a fictitious story, THE THIRD WIFE is inspired by the family history of writer & director Ash Mayfair, with many of the events depicted in this film being true and drawn from real people. A practice that still exists in several countries around the world, the theme of the film is arranged marriage as chronicled through the eyes of a rather precocious 14 year-old girl named Mây (Nguyễn Phương Trà My). It is late 19th century in rural Vietnam when Mây is given away to become the third wife of a wealthy landowner, Hùng (Lê Vũ Long). As the newest and youngest wife in the household, Mây is very attentive towards her duties and quickly learns that her status will supersede the other wives if she can do something they’ve yet to achieve – give Hùng his first baby boy. Problem is, however, that Mây happens to be harbouring a secret that if discovered, will be life-changing.

To appropriately align your expectations of THE THIRD WIFE, please be advised that Mây is hiding her secret from almost everybody, including us as viewers. Though the apparent reason for its scarce development is reasonable, this tenderly and artistically rendered drama will be an unfulfilling experience should your curiosity hinge on this aspect alone. Rather, THE THIRD WIFE can be better appreciated if viewed as it transpires, which is the visually driven story of a young girl who is observing and exploring her place in this new life, whilst her sexual awakening unfolds. At first, the unripe age of such a role for this film’s protagonist may sound very controversial and is the reason it was quickly removed from Vietnamese cinemas! However, I commend Ash Mayfair, who lived on set for several weeks during the re-write of the script, for tackling such a sensitive issue in Vietnamese society. THE THIRD WIFE is a very sensual film that is authentically and delicately filmed and presented.

Unfortunately though, the narrative barely managed to captivate or involve me to the extent it could visually. The script certainly lacks depth that a worldwide audience would surely benefit from. Also, pay particular attention to names and faces that might be mentioned earlier into the film as they’re seldom mentioned throughout and differentiating characters by name when they are being referred to by another is harder work than it should be.

To end on a more positive note, this is a brave, mature and spellbinding performance by first-time actress Nguyễn Phương Trà My.

3 ½ stars

Viewer Discretion
MA15+ (Strong themes and sex scenes)

Trailer
THE THIRD WIFE

Moviedoc thanks Potential Films for providing a screener link to watch and review this film.

THE THIRD WIFE is released in selected cinemas throughout Australia from July 4th, 2019.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc
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