Kha Y Tran After nearly a decade in production, CHIEN NAM: The Shedding Cicada officially arrives in theaters for the 2026 Lunar New Year season. The film stands out as one of the most ambitious Vietnamese action–martial arts projects in recent years. Moreover, it blends undercover crime investigation with intense hand-to-hand combat and emotional storytelling.
As a result, the movie not only entertains but also leaves a strong impression on audiences who love action films with depth.
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Overview – Film Information
- Title: CHIEN NAM: The Shedding Cicada
- Genre: Action, Martial Arts, Crime
- Directors: Trần Thanh Đa & Trần Hòa Bình
- Main Cast: Longka, Trương Minh Cường, Nguyễn Trần Duy Nhất, Hứa Minh Đạt…
- Release Date: January 30, 2026 (Lunar New Year – Year of the Horse)
- Budget: About 30 billion VND
- Age Rating: 16+
From the start, the project attracted attention. It went through three title changes and many production obstacles. Therefore, its 10-year journey makes it one of the most persistent films in modern Vietnamese cinema.
Story – Chiến Nam’s Journey
The story follows Chiến Nam, a brave police officer who decides to infiltrate the criminal underworld. His goal is simple but risky: protect justice at all costs.
First, investigative journalist Ngọc disappears with evidence against the Thái Minh Legend corporation. Then, the crucial USB drive falls into the hands of her close friend Kim. As a result, the crime syndicate targets Kim.
Fortunately, Kim still has one secret protector—Chiến Nam.
Meanwhile, teammate K52 goes missing, and criminals kidnap Kim. At that point, Chiến Nam dives deeper into Thái Minh’s web of lies. Just when he thinks he has won, the mastermind launches a plan called “Ve Sầu Thoát Xác” (The Cicada Shedding Its Shell). Therefore, the real battle only begins.
Highlights
- The film is praised for its realistic, hard-hitting fight scenes. The cast performs most of the action themselves, creating authentic physical impact instead of relying heavily on CGI.
- Beyond martial arts, the movie explores crime organizations disguised as legitimate businesses, adding a timely and unique angle compared to typical action films.
- Alongside intense action, the emotional line between Chiến Nam and journalist Kim provides warmth and depth to the story.
Performances & Characters
The film features Trương Minh Cường, who has been attached to the project since its earliest days. Also starring are Longka, Nguyễn Trần Duy Nhất, Nhi Katy, Hứa Minh Đạt, Hoàng Mèo, Quách Ngọc Tuyên, Huỳnh Phương, and Vinh Râu.
Final Thoughts
Overall, CHIEN NAM: The Shedding Cicada delivers strong, practical action and a gripping crime story. It also honors the courage and sacrifice of police officers. Moreover, the romantic element stays subtle and natural.
Therefore, if you enjoy Vietnamese action films with martial arts and investigation, this movie is a great choice for the 2026 Lunar New Year season.
Buy movie tickets at: https://www.cgv.vn/
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