Q: As both director and screenwriter, what aspect of this story resonates with you most deeply? How do you intend to convey its cross-cultural psychological depth on screen?
A: What moves me most is the search for one's own identity, an identity that exists independently of the roles or expectations set by our parents. At the same time, our parents remain our roots, the very foundation from which we come, something we can never completely separate ourselves from. Throughout our lives, we constantly return to those formative influences, sometimes consciously resisting them, at other times reconciling with and embracing them. I believe this is not merely the story of people living in the diaspora; it speaks to anyone, from any culture.
To bring this story to the screen, I focus on details that are specific, authentic, and deeply personal, yet broad enough to embody something much larger. When such details become symbolic, they take root in individual experience and acquire a metaphorical power capable of touching universal emotions. The greatest challenge is telling a story that is highly distinctive and personal while allowing audiences everywhere to recognise something of themselves within it.
Q: What inspired you to take on this project? How have your academic and artistic background helped you develop a screenplay rooted in the lived experiences of the Vietnamese diaspora?
A: Over the years, my work has consistently revolved around several central themes. Above all, I am interested in human relationships — not only romantic love, but also family bonds and the forces that shape them. Another recurring theme is the search for truth, which, for me, always carries a philosophical dimension. Philosophy in particular has been a constant source of inspiration for my artistic work over many years.
For this project, my entire creative team is international, and most of them are of Vietnamese heritage. I see my own perspective as an international lens, while the team brings the authentic viewpoint of those with lived experience.
I am always striving to understand and portray Vietnamese identity as accurately and authentically as possible. At the same time, my role is to highlight the universal aspects of the story so that international audiences can easily relate to it.
What has astonished and deeply impressed me is the tremendous support the project has received, both within Viet Nam and from Vietnamese communities overseas. What began as a simple idea has, in a remarkably short period of time, evolved into a project with tremendous potential.
German director and screenwriter Kristina Schippling
Q: Last June, you visited Viet Nam for the first time to attend the launch of 'Beyond the Broken Bridge'fil in Ha Noi. What were your first impressions of the country? Did the reality differ from what you had imagined?
A: I arrived in Viet Nam with a completely open mind. After only a few days here, I had already developed a deep affection for your country. What touched me from the very first moments were the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people.
What I particularly value about Viet Nam is the importance placed on traditional values and the strong sense of community. In some respects, these impressions even reminded me of my childhood memories in the former East Germany. Vietnamese culture has been a remarkable source of inspiration for me. Its uniqueness has opened entirely new perspectives, yet at the same time I have discovered many surprisingly familiar connections with my own experiences and understanding of the world. Combined with its stunning natural scenery, Viet Nam is truly a country that makes visitors feel welcome almost immediately.
Thank you very much for your time. We wish you every success with the film project.
