‘Chrysalis’ Lands Vietnam Theatrical Deal With CJ CGV, Sets September Release (EXCLUSIVE)

“Chrysalis” has secured a theatrical distribution deal in Vietnam through CJ CGV Vietnam, the country’s leading multiplex operator and distributor, with a nationwide release set for Sept. 11. The film will open locally as “Mãi Nợ Một Lời Tạm Biệt,” rendered in English as “The Farewell I Never Gave.” The international title remains “Chrysalis.” The deal marks a significant distribution milestone for the U.S.-Vietnam production, which is set in Vietnam and draws on the childhood memories of its subject and executive producer, Sir Daniel K. Winn. “Bringing ‘Chrysalis’ to theaters in Vietnam is deeply personal,” Winn said. “This story grew out of my childhood and the love of my grandmother, and I hope Vietnamese audiences see something of their own families and memories in it.” Directed by J. Robert Schulz from a screenplay by Andrew Creme, based on a story by Winn, Randall J. Slavin and Schulz, the film stars Kieu Chinh as Bà Nội, the grandmother at the heart of the story, with Winn appearing in the present-day storyline. The cast also includes Uy Nhan, Samuel An, Lan Thy, Le Anh Huy, Tien Pham and Trinh Tu Trung. WS Productions produced. Popular on Variety “This Vietnam release is an important milestone for ‘Chrysalis’ and reflects the collaboration between our U.S. and Vietnamese cast, crew and producing teams,” executive producer Slavin said. “We are proud to bring the film to audiences in the country where its story begins.” The film made its market debut at the 2026 Cannes Film Market with two market screenings before going on to compete at the fourth edition of the Danang Asian Film Festival, where it was one of 13 films selected for the Asian Competition. At DANAFF, Kieu Chinh received the Screen Excellence Merit Award, recognizing a screen career spanning nearly seven decades and more than 100 roles. “‘Chrysalis’ is a deeply moving story that explores the powerful themes of family and memory,” CJ CGV Vietnam said in a statement. “We look forward to bringing this remarkable award-winning film to audiences across Vietnam this September.” The Vietnam theatrical run is part of the film’s broader release schedule, which includes a Beverly Hills engagement in October and a worldwide rollout planned for November.