Tam and Cam have long been iconic figures in the folklore of many Vietnamese generations. They exist not only in traditional fairy tales but also manifest on various stages through traditional theater, opera, film, and cinematic productions. Every major generation seems to be familiar with the story of Tam and Cam, a narrative that encapsulates themes of virtue and jealousy, but also serves as a representation of Vietnamese cultural heritage with its distinct female characters.
On screen, there are numerous adaptations of the Tam and Cam tale, but few truly capture the essence of what Tam and Cam represent until AI technology created lifelike depictions of the two characters based on motifs from the traditional tale. While many versions of the story exist, when brought into modern acting portrayals, audiences frequently find themselves captivated anew.
Regarding Tam, she is depicted as beautiful yet modest, embodying a kind of understated grace. Her skin tone is not overly pale due to her laborious life, and her expressions carry a melancholic depth. Her long, flowing hair is elegantly styled, contributing to her image of a virtuous maiden who, despite her hardships, remains dignified and resilient. This is the image that resonates with readers when they think of the gentle girl who endures familial hardships yet maintains her integrity.
On the other hand, Cam, who is Tam’s half-sister, is not only known for her striking beauty but also for her ambitious and cunning personality. AI has recreated Cam’s character with the same essence: beautiful, enchanting, and possessing a captivating gaze. Each iteration of her character reflects more than just her looks; it captures her complex and often competitive nature in contrast to Tam’s innocence.
Previously, various films and music videos drew inspiration from the story of Tam and Cam, often featuring prominent actresses like Chi Pu, Ninh Dương Lan Ngọc, Lâm Thanh Mỹ, and Rima Thanh Vy embodying either Tam or Cam successfully. Each actress brought her unique flair and style to the character. However, when AI-generated images of the characters emerged, many viewers couldn’t help but be startled by the accuracy of their portrayals, even the A-list stars like Lan Ngọc or Chi Pu had moments where they seemed to mirror the AI-generated depictions.
Image Source: Compilation
