Tam Cam is one of the most familiar folk tales among many generations of Vietnamese people. The story revolves around the beautiful Tam, who faces numerous adversities at the hands of her step-sister Cam. The themes of jealousy and revenge have been deeply embedded in the cultural psyche. When this tale is reimagined in a cinematic adaptation, director Tran Huu Tan has carefully crafted intricate details to create a captivating narrative. The teaser for the film has revealed an array of hidden elements within its storyline.
The teaser for Tam Cam begins with the familiar details of the two sisters, Tam (Rima Thanh Vy) and Cam (Lam Thanh My), preparing fish for a meal. However, the twist lies in the fact that the one who prepares the fish is actually Cam, who has taken on the role of the more favored child in this new adaptation. The character of Cam, with her alluring beauty, has transformed the family dynamic, causing the household to view Tam as a mere servant. Given the way Cam has positioned herself as the favored child, could there be a connection to the darker secrets hidden beneath?
Do Tam and Cam’s father still live?
An important distinction in the Tam Cam teaser is the presence of the girls’ father, Hai Hoang, portrayed by Quoc Cuong. However, his role seems to be more significant than before. In a scene, we see Hai Hoang as the one leading the ceremony to ward off evil spirits, taking place in front of a girl of noble lineage for the sake of her safety.
Could this be a prelude to the horrifying events that unfold in Tam Cam? Who is this evil spirit and what is their relationship with the family? Does Cam’s striking beauty serve as a warning for the misdeeds of Hai Hoang?
The mysterious dagger found on the road?
In the original tale, Tam is often depicted as a servant in the kitchen, while the dagger represents the type of weapon that can be used against evil spirits. However, in the teaser for Tam Cam, the dagger is discovered by Hai Hoang on the road. Is the dagger truly Tam’s, or does it belong to someone else? Moreover, could it be a relic of a malevolent spirit meant to haunt Hai Hoang and his daughters?
The significance of the hairpin?
A familiar image of the hairpin appears briefly in the teaser. In the original story, Tam transforms into a hairpin and is ultimately used as a tool of revenge by Cam after Tam’s untimely demise. However, the hairpin in the Tam Cam teaser seems to be in the possession of an unknown character, creating further intrigue.
Following the hairpin, another notable image from Vietnamese folklore appears: a blood-soaked doll. However, it is held by an evil spirit, creating a chilling atmosphere. The significance of the blood-stained doll raises questions, as it closely relates to the story of the Broom Witch and the dark magic involved. In the promotional material, Cam appears to reveal the presence of the Broom Witch (Tran Doan Hoang). What role does this character play, and why does the blood-soaked doll appear in connection with her? Could this be a sign of an evil spirit’s influence?
The haunting lullaby?
At the end of the teaser, viewers hear a haunting lullaby reminiscent of the traditional lullabies in Tam Cam. However, instead of the usual “golden fish and gold fish,” the lyrics change to “red blood, red blood in our home.” This, combined with the blood-soaked background, creates an unsettling atmosphere. It’s worth noting that the doll may not be a “friend” as Bup had given Tam, but rather a sinister artifact connected to the spirits or even an evil force.
Is Bup truly a deity?
Alongside the lullaby about the doll, Bup’s voice echoes when he asks, “Why is the child crying?” However, his tone lacks the warmth typically associated with a deity in Vietnamese culture. Is this truly Bup, or is it the evil spirit that has haunted Tam and Cam for a long time, plotting to lead them into a trap?
Many new characters play hidden roles
In addition to Hai Hoang, the cinematic adaptation of Tam Cam features several new characters, including Thi Xoan (Thien Tu), Mr. Ca Huong (Mai The Hiep), and Ba Tam (NSUT Ngoc Hiep). Each character has unique attributes and roles in the unfolding story. How will these new characters influence the narrative and the dark themes of the film?
The significant changes in Tam Cam promise to bring unexpected twists and thrilling scenes for audiences who enjoy the horror genre. The film is set to premiere nationwide on September 27.
