HÀ NỘI — The Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters has been conferred on film director Đặng Nhật Minh for his contributions to enhancing cultural understanding between Viet Nam and France.

He received his award during a ceremony at the French Embassy in Viet Nam on March 31.

Đặng Nhật Minh is one of the few Vietnamese directors with global renown. The self-taught filmmaker made highly acclaimed films such as Bao Giờ Cho Đến Thang Mười (When the Tenth Month Comes) and Đừng Đốt (Don’t Burn).

When the Tenth Month Comes was listed as one of the best 18 Asian films of all times by CNN whilst Don’t Burn was the Vietnamese representative at the 82nd Academy Award in the US.

The Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters has been awarded since 1957 by the French Ministry of Culture to individuals who have distinguished themselves in artistic and literary creation, or who have contributed to illuminating art and literature in France and around the world.

Many artists in Viet Nam have received this medal, such as writer Nguyễn Huy Thiep, writer Ngo Tự Lập, director Nguyễn Hoang Điep, Nguyễn Ngọc Lan - Director of the Institute of Cultural Exchange with France (IDECAF), Meritorious Artist Trần Vương Thạch - Director of the HCM City Symphony and Ballet Theatre, Vũ Thị Minh Hương, Director of the Department of State Records and Archives of Viet Nam. VNS